This commentary is by Christine Hallquist — executive director of the Vermont Community Broadband Board, Democratic nominee for Vermont governor in 2018 and former CEO of Vermont Electric Cooperative — and Tee Thomas — CEO of Quantified Ventures and former water finance director for the state of Vermont.
Vermonters are suffering from damage caused by catastrophic flooding for the second summer in a row. There is no denying that climate change is a problem that needs to be addressed. Broadband is part of the solution.
While the connection between broadband investments and climate change may not be immediately apparent, a closer look reveals a powerful connection between the two areas. Without substantial investments in broadband infrastructure, every single dollar the U.S. is investing in renewable energy, transportation and “smart-grid” infrastructure is limited to connected urban and suburban areas, and missing an opportunity for nationwide impact.
Smart infrastructure and energy efficiency
Investments in broadband are critical to the development of smart infrastructure and expanded energy efficiency. Smart grids, enabled by broadband connectivity, allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy consumption. This enables utilities to optimize energy distribution, reduce waste, and integrate renewable energy sources more effectively.
By promoting energy efficiency, broadband investments directly contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This has immediate implications for energy utilities and the water sector, specifically relative to the further embrace of smart technology, the ability to address staffing shortages, and conservation practices.
Without fiber optic broadband connections, it is not possible to decarbonize the energy sector because:
- We must increase renewable energy at least sevenfold to fully transition our entire energy portfolio from fossil fuels. The problem is the sun does not shine constantly, and the wind does not blow constantly. Usually, renewable generation from wind and solar does not match the load. We cannot tie our energy usage directly to supply.
- Therefore, we need to add energy storage to the grid. Energy storage is still quite expensive and has its own set of environmental challenges. Energy storage alone should not be viewed as the “magic bullet.” It is just part of the solution.
- We need to couple renewable energy with storage and manage the relationship between supply and demand with an extremely responsive, highly reliable telecommunications network. That network requires fiber-optic communications between the electric grid and the plug load (i.e., electric vehicles, heating, air conditioning and other high-demand electrical consumers). This is what is defined as the smart grid.
In short, a greener, more sustainable future is a combination of more renewables, enhanced energy storage and fiber optic broadband that seamlessly stitches together renewables and energy storage.
Electric Vehicles and the Smart Grid
Fast-charging electric vehicles strain electrical networks, requiring rapid grid response. This responsiveness can only be achieved through fiber-optic networks. Expansive fiber-optic broadband cable networks also can result in more efficient use of the electric grid to manage supply and demand in real time, allowing for a more reliable system. An extremely responsive and highly reliable telecommunications network is based on reliable fiber-optic communications between electric grid and high-demand electrical consumers like electric vehicles.
The smart grid is an electricity network that uses digital technologies, sensors and software to better match the supply and demand of electricity in real time while minimizing costs and maintaining the stability and reliability of the grid. The nationwide push for more electric vehicles and investment in EV infrastructure must be coupled with broadband investments to ensure the infrastructure is reliable, responsive, and eases consumer adoption.
Precision agriculture and sustainable practices
In the agricultural sector, broadband connectivity is a game changer. Precision agriculture, facilitated by high-speed internet access, enables farmers to deploy technology-driven solutions for optimal resource management. This includes precision irrigation, crop monitoring and data driven decision making. By embracing sustainable farming practices made possible by broadband, the agricultural sector can reduce its environmental footprint, conserve water and contribute to climate resilience.
Remote work and telecommuting
The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, highlighting the importance of robust broadband infrastructure. As more people work from home, the demand for high-speed internet has surged. By facilitating remote work and reducing the need for daily commutes, broadband helps decrease carbon emissions associated with transportation. A well-established broadband network empowers individuals and businesses to contribute to climate change mitigation by embracing flexible work arrangements.
E-learning and environmental education
As education becomes increasingly digital, broadband plays a crucial role in providing access to educational resources. Through e-learning platforms, individuals can access environmental education and awareness programs. A well-informed populace is more likely to support and engage in sustainable practices, leading to a collective effort toward reducing carbon emissions. Broadband investments thus become a catalyst for environmental education and awareness.
A more sustainable future
The connection between broadband investments and climate change is multifaceted. By promoting remote work, enabling smart infrastructure, fostering sustainable agriculture, supporting environmental education and facilitating vehicle and appliance electrification, broadband is a crucial tool in our collective efforts to solve climate change.
As we invest in building resilient and high-speed broadband networks, we are not just connecting people; we are building a foundation for a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.
