Japan leads in solar: time for the US to get in

[nodular]

http://www.winadvisorygroup.com/JapaneseCoLeadsSolarProduction.html

"...Japan is already the largest producer and user of solar energy, but they're not resting on those laurels. The Japanese government is strongly supporting further development and refinement of photovoltaic technology, the solid-state semi-conductor devices that convert sunlight into direct current electricity...Japan produces almost 50% of the world’s total solar cell production; Japanese manufacturers dominate the global industry, and export about 30% of what they produce...

Sharp, headquartered in Osaka, is the largest manufacturer of solar cells in the world. Just a little over a year ago, Sharp opened its first plant outside of Japan. That facility, in Memphis, Tennessee, is assembling 165-, 167- and 185-watt solar panels for installation in homes and businesses. Panels from the first five months of production were used primarily in California, New Jersey and New York. Sharp is uniquely positioned for the growing U.S. market as they also manufacture, brand and sell a UL approved converter, making it possible for customers to purchase an entire residential solar energy system from one source. Sharp is the first in the industry to make this "one-stop shopping" possible.

In June of this year, Sharp and the State of New Mexico signed a memorandum of understanding to work together to develop advanced fuel cells and photovoltaic technologies. Sharp will work with Sandia National Laboratories and New Mexico State University. According to Rick Homans, New Mexico’s Economic Development Secretary, 'It’s good news for New Mexico that the world leader in the solar industry wants to turn our solar and fuel cell technology into commercial products. Sharp will make money, and we will create jobs. This is a win-win for both of us.' "

Looks like it's time for the U. S. to come off the sidelines and start being a player in this solar power game. With the outcome of the recent elections, the time is right.

[stepnw1f]

1. nah.. We Need to Support Big Oil

and their investors because........ :sarcasm:

[Vincardog]

2. And about damn time. What about GeoThermal?

[XemaSab]

5. Lots of geothermal exploration taking place in the Salton Trough.

n/t

[happydreams]

3. Meanwhile the US development of renewables is hamstrung

by oil interests (read: Bush Dynasty)

[applegrove]

4. Why didn't Bush want America to win the alternative energy race? Two words:

BIG OIL.

There is still time for America to regain what you lost in time.. you have an excellent scientific advantage. So why not use it for something other than war.

[Vincardog]

6. The financial reckoning for the low wage conservative financial looting

of the last 20 years is due. We have at the most months before the financial tsunami hits.