The downside of renewable energy projects

Los Angeles Times : Although switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is a laudable goal, building and maintaining solar and wind power projects can be hazardous, writes Tiffany Hsu for the Los Angeles Times. Workers perform tasks similar to those in the most dangerous professions: roofing, electrical work, and carpentry. And the industry’s rapid growth means more new and inexperienced people who often must work in small spaces, at great heights, with extremely heavy machinery, and surrounded by high-voltage electrical equipment. Even the public can be at risk, as fires atop wind towers have scattered burning debris, and hastily built installations have collapsed within months. In the wake of complaints from various watchdog groups, however, clean-energy companies are working to implement more uniform safety standards and more intensive training for workers.