"The Economics of Grid Defection" (What is a 'utility in a box'? - k)

[hunter]

6. A mix of natural turbines, solar, and wind does work...

... but that's not my idea of a "solution."

What we are getting with "grid defection," at least in the rural and semi-rural sector is something dirtier: solar, filthy lead-acid batteries, and filthy gasoline or diesel "backup" generators. (I know you've seen this, kristopher.)

For larger users, or neighborhood co-ops with "micro" gas turbines, co-generation, and other gadgetry, it's still filthy gas. Fracking is a wretched and temporary thing that ought not be encouraged.

In "developing" nations the recycling of lead-acid batteries and the use of poorly maintained gasoline or diesel generators, in combination with solar and wind power, is a very filthy source of electricity.

I'm still going to insist that "lifestyle changes" such as having fewer children, increased education, and abandoning the automobile and "consumer" lifestyle is a more effective way of "saving the world" than any possible gadgetry.

Teach a human organic agriculture and birth control, everyone will be fed. Teach a human to buy stuff and all is lost.