The only time these alternative energy companies were able to make it was when there were government subsidies. I can tell you from personal experience, that a solar panel based power system is hugely expensive and it takes many more years than advertised to break even when compared to public utility costs. It only makes sense at the residential level!
I understand your feelings. It is currently an expensive system that takes years to break even (if ever, these things do break), but the Berkley folks are working to change that.
I, again, do not think that individual purchase should be subsidized by tax dollars. I do think that research that has the potential to develop this, and other energy sources, into a cheap, clean, and viable alternative is worthwhile.