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One time build and destruction costs are also present in fossil fuel power generation.

Thing is with wind and solar, that’s the total harm done. When averaged out over the MWh they produce, you realise that in comparison to coal, oil or gas based power their CO2 impact is utterly negligible.

Is there more that can be done to reduce it further? Sure.

But saying because there is some lifecycle CO2 in their usage means they should be considered harmful is like saying cycling to work is harmful just like taking a helicopter, because rubber tyres aren’t entirely environmentally friendly. It’s honestly that absurd a comparison.



I think you're strawmanning a little.

I'm in no way advocating for burning coal/oil/gas. I'm advocating for reduction.

If we were looking for an alternative, how is total (incl build/destruction) CO2 impact of wind/solar/etc compared to nuclear energy?




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