Suppose it turns out that (for example) unpredictable variation in output of wind-powered generating stations introduces too much uncertainty into the grid to e

Suppose it turns out that (for example) unpredictable variation in output of wind-powered generating stations introduces too much uncertainty into the grid to effectively balance supply against load, so control and distribution requirements limit wind power's contribution to about 5% of demand [1]. Then, if we aren't careful, we'll wind up with an over-subsidized wind turbine industry with nothing to do other than provide service to a niche market and lobby congress for more money for "research and development," promising that someday, maybe the right solution will come along. Rent-seeking by a big company does not justify rent-seeking by a small company that hopes to become a big company, because success will make it another big rent-seeking company. [1] This is a real problem that hasn't been solved yet. There are ideas about what to do, but none of them is a slam dunk.