Feed In Tariffs the way forward

In Germany, a "feed-in tariff" law was passed in 2000 that required utility companies to subsidize solar energy producers by buying their electricity at favourable rates. The law led to rapid development in photovoltaic technology despite the generally cloudy weather in Germany. Large solar energy companies and a smaller cottage industry were created where solar energy is sold back to utility companies through the electric grid at a profit. Around 90% of solar energy production in Germany is grid-tied while 10% is off-the grid. Feed-in tariff laws have been passed in other countries, and led to growth in the development and use of solar panels for energy generation.

The UK is looking at introducing an updated scheme in April 2010. Once in place the up take should be reasonably steady. Particularly as the UK is heading towards energy shortages over the nezt 5-10 years.

On a seperate note ...could our electrical grids be looking forward to large interruptions?

According to a report from Hawaii -

For the full 11 year period of Solar Cycle 24 (approx. 2008-2019) the Earth will be vulnerable to any Coronal Mass Ejections directly aimed at it from the sun. The risks of solar storms bombarding the Earth and repeatedly taking down the electrical grid for extended periods has never been greater. In addition to physical and health risks posed by extensive and repeated electrical blackouts, the economic costs would be enormous. Now is the best time to take preventative action and develop off-the-grid (stand alone) energy systems using renewable energy sources.

In addition to solar and wind energy generators, there are other renewable energy sources that can be used to develop off-the grid systems.

Anticipating major disruptions to the electric grid system around the year 2012 requires developing an off-the grid energy system using renewable energy sources. An off-the grid system can be used in conjunction with a grid-tied generation system to assist with development costs.


For full article go to http://www.examiner.com/x-2383-Honolulu-Exopolitics-Examiner~y2009m5d25-Cost-of-electric-grid-failure-from-2012-solar-storms-avoidable