Since this thread is about innovation, and Jukes has thrown out...

Since this thread is about innovation, and Jukes has thrown out the challenge of thinking outside the box, I believe that there maybe some scope to look further at the transmission of power.

Does it need to be electric? can the hot brine/closed loop fluid be transported/piped to a heat exchanger/generator closer to the major centers without losing too much heat - perhaps underground?

Is copper wire the most effecient conductor, or is there other methods that offer less loss. Lasers anyone?

Can the power of the cooper basin be used to alter the climate in such a way as to increase rainfall in the snowy mountains?

Yes, I know, sounds ridiculous, but then everyone told Henry Ford that it couldnt be done.

Seriously, the transmission of the power, not just to the grid, but of the grid itself, is an area where real innovation will make a significant contribution to the future of the country.

Hope to see you all at the agm in November.

Kaday