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> Utility scale solar is greater than small scale (< 1 MW) solar in the US Your graph shows in total generated energy per year it's roughly even--- not in name
by mlyle 4y ago
> Utility scale solar is greater than small scale (< 1 MW) solar in the US
Your graph shows in total generated energy per year it's roughly even--- not in nameplate power. Because the capacity factor is worse, you need a lot more nameplate power at non-utility installations to get the same energy out.
> This is good, because utility scale solar is cheaper per unit output than small scale solar.
Yup. Small scale solar really needs to stop, other than for installations that have special requirements (e.g. need for power backup / diversity).
- ncmncm 4y agoYou would forbid me to buy panels?
- mlyle 4y agoSince we know your use of panels isn't going to be efficient compared to utility scale--- I sure wouldn't subsidize you, and would subsidize the utility scale stuff instead. Better that production go to installations that have good capacity factors than to your roof. It's also time to reconsider how good an idea net metering at retail electrical prices is. Grandfather existing customers, but ... sure looks like we need a grid, so maybe only buy power from new end customers at wholesale rates (this further incents storage!)