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Comparing Different Sources of Electricity
By using a diverse mix of these energy power sources, policymakers will be able to balance energy solutions that provide Minnesota families and businesses with affordable and reliable energy while investing in and protecting the environment.
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| Different Sources of Electricity | | Type | Examples | Cost | Reliability |
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| Baseload | Coal Nuclear | Low | Very High | | Peaking | Hydro Natural Gas Oil | Low to Medium | High | | Intermittent | Wind Solar | Varies | Low |
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Some renewable energy sources are unreliable, while others that are more reliable are more expensive than current baseload sources of electricity. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are intermittent. Wind speed varies, and the wind doesn't blow all the time. Solar power cannot be sufficiently collected on cloudy days, and it cannot be collected at all at night. Intermittent energy sources cannot be relied upon for 24-7 baseload energy usage.
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