Fellowes111, I agree with you, coal is probably cheaper, but it...

Fellowes111, I agree with you, coal is probably cheaper, but it shouldn't be. If we factored in the true cost of coal i.e. the clean up costs (how do we scrub CO2 out of the atmosphere?) or the cost to the environment then I think you would find we simply CANNOT afford it. Maybe even with CCS, if it is ever proven to be feasible, it will also be too expensive.

I understand BLG has an InGaN thin film process that could give a maximum 50% efficiency solar photovoltaic cell and the process is cheap so they are targeting at a $1 per W cost (if my memory is correct), but it is in the early R&D stages.

I agree solar thermal would be a good proposition. I'm not aware of the costs or whether there are any working plants globally. Anyone?