I don’t buy the hype about solar electricity nor should anyone who can rationally look at some technology and analyze it on a cost/benefit basis.
However, technology is growing at a pace far beyond our ability to comprehend it in a macro sense. The sun is a massive power plant and our ability to harness it will grow with our ability to collect and store energy. Sadly, our government subsidies have gone towards existing technology that has severe limitations and often does not approach a 25% return on the dollar. It is only one part of the energy pie that has received more hype and funding than it warrants at the moment, but it will get better.
Assuming we remain a free and prosperous society and given the economic growth in other parts of the world there is little doubt that newer technologies will emerge that may be worth consideration for those along the equator and perhaps a little further from it.
My research grants are drying up. Quick I need more money
Not plastic, but storage. ...
Both are remote and not that heavily populated and both enjoy lots and *lots* of sunshine,a point made even more important by the fact that they're both fairly close to the Equator.
Northern North America? Most of Europe? Northern Asia? Don't make me laugh.
Thorium. Problem solved. We could solve this issue in 10 years or less. America should take the lead in this. We know how to harness Nuclear and Molten Salt Reactors are so much more safe and meltdown proof. \
Technology by fiat is a suckers bet.
Prove the technology first.