could SGL Group be our next mou?, page-36

I believe the technology is a lot further along than many realise. Germany for instance has a number of functioning, fully integrated and self-sufficient solar-li-ion systems. Furthermore, Germany has repeatedly stated their intention to generate 80% of their power from integrated renewable systems, such as the aforementioned Solar-Li-ion system. In 2000 they produced 6% of power from renewables and they’re now running at 25%, well ahead of their 80% target by 2050. (*1) & (*2)

The Germans, like many European nations are looking for energy independence, mostly from their old foes. There’s many a town, supported by the EU that are either taking themselves off the grid or partly decentralising. Feldhiem is a great example, they went off the grid in 2010, and now their power is 31% cheaper because of their foresight. They aren’t the only town, Germany is conducting large scale experiments and looking to implement this system nationwide, places like Pellworm come to mind. And make no mistake, when they do and they start to pay less for power the rest of Europe, with the world hot on their tails, will follow. (*3) & (*4)

We’re already seeing countries follow their lead, Germany which has been rolling out roof top, solar-Li-ion systems for a few years now, are now being copied by California with the U.S. government looking to use them a blueprint for a nationwide rollout (consider how much high quality, high purity graphite, the exact type KNL has will be required for that 400m odd people!). (*5)

The revolution has begun, I just think many have been asleep. I believe our task is made more difficult by the quality of information provided in Australia on these issues. I’m currently based in Prague (for personal reasons, I have no affiliation with any corporation and I am an Australian) and I can tell you it only takes a quick scan of Bloomberg.com or the local papers in Germany and Paris to understand how great the misinformation, or lack thereof in Australia actually is. The Australian media is insular and sensationalist, it’s almost as if they believe they can’t sell without fear.

In saying that though, I do have to admit I find the KNL thread a welcome respite from the Australian media. It’s often well informed but more importantly it’s a forum people can debate the topics at hand without descending into child-like taunts.

Well done all, keep up the good work!

(*1) http://www.energystorageexchange.org/projects/1292
(*2) http://www.alternet.org/environment/while-germany-headed-80-renewable-energy-were-getting-left-dust
(*3) http://ecowatch.com/2014/02/20/german-village-independent-grid-renewable-energy-future/
(*4) http://www.saftbatteries.com/press/...storage-technology-help-make-eon’s-smart-grid  
(*5) http://www.solarchoice.net.au/blog/news/sharp-enters-storage-market-with-smartstorage-180814