[ExI] [Bulk] Re: Thoughts on Space based solar power (alternatives)

[BillK]

On Wed, Nov 26, 2008 at 11:54 AM, Stefano Vaj wrote:
> My personal bets are on nuclear fusion, space-based solar energy, and
> deep geotermy.
>
> I do not see any other energy sources having the potential to allow
> for the kind of exponential growth in energy consumption that I wish
> for.
>


I think you are wrong in at least three different ways.  :)

1) Timescale.
Fusion power and space-based solar energy  are unlikely in our
lifetime. Well, maybe the young lads might live to see it. Geothermal
is being done in Iceland, but deep geothermal for use in all countries
is another very longterm project.

2) Cost.
All your suggestions are expensive large-scale projects requiring
nation-level investments.

3) Exponential power increases are not required. Future devices will
be more efficient and use less power.

On the other hand,
The new "thin-film" solar cells will be available within five years
and will be a cheap commodity product that everyone will use on every
available surface.
Note: I am not talking about the heavy expensive solar panels in use today.

BillK