David Michael

To What Extent Is Alternative Energy Performance Linked to Fossil Energy Prices?

Working in the energy industry, I have heard nothing about solar being anywhere close to what frflyer calls "grid parity". Efficiency and pricing on renewables of all types will keep them out of the market so long as natural gas prices are less than ~$10.

Note that I refer to natural gas. While our auto industry is addicted to oil, less than 1% of our electrical use is based on oil - indeed, the largest segment is driven by natural gas.

In order to have renewables generators running in a low-fossil-fuel price environment such as the current one, electricity rates would have to be raised in one form or another. It will take convincing the public that paying more for more environmentally-friend... generated electricity is worthwhile for the extensive subsidies that currently exist for the green energy industry to continue or be expanded.