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Old 02-27-2009, 02:23 PM   #30
Frequitude
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Quote:
Originally Posted by corporatejay View Post
There was someone on here awhile ago that mentioned that as good as solar can be, it can't be "stored" and pulled on demand to meet things like power spikes. Perhaps someone remembers that?
It can be stored in batteries, but batteries are a really dirty technology...acids, lead, useless plastic boxes, etc.

However, the grid can be used to effectively "store" electricity. This requires three concepts:
1) Net Metering - when you make more than you need, you sell it onto the grid. When you make less than you need, you buy it off the grid.
2) A robust, well interconnected grid.
3) Central power plants that can easily swing up and down to offset the swingy nature of solar cells throughout the day.
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