[zeestephen]

I’ve been reading this same article every year since the first oil embargo in 1973.

But, after at least $100 billion of R&D and government subsidies, solar still produces less than 1% of the world’s energy.

It’s a great idea, and the technology is fascinating.

But will it EVER be cost competitive?

[GingisK]

But will it EVER be cost competitive?

Even if you had solar panels that were 100% efficient, you could never get more than 100 watts per square foot of panel at the equator. That is the amount of raw power that makes it to the earth. One must expect less power per square foot at higher latitudes.

In sort, solar power is strictly for low power needs.

[Svartalfiar]

But will it EVER be cost competitive?

Solar is cost-competitive, right now. If you're in space. Building a satellite or space station or space shuttle (vehicle). Otherwise, no, not at all.