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Chris Farah
28th March 2007, 09:55
Hi all,

This is actually motivated by a business class for engineers. (I've resisted a respectable business sense my whole life.) In the class, I've taken on the challenge of reporting on the health of alternative energy in north america, as well as its many threats, societal, political, and otherwise.

I really have very little idea of how water turbines (my primary interest), solar cells, and the like, have fared against the energy grid or other more traditional but less friendly energy-drawing systems. Hence, any leads or answers in this regard would be appreciated.

I have a friend, Franco Montalto, who works with commercial contracts (see eDesign Dynamics) but he has little knowledge about smaller, residential contracts/customers. What tactics have been used to wake up the average american? For those who have a dedicated customer base, what is the average customer like?

Finally, is there competition as of yet? Are there any threats from large companies monopolizing alternative energy sales?

Thank you for your input. Profanity is welcome if I have said anything outrageously stupid. Jeering is also encouraged.

Have a great day.

Chris

Rob Beckers
29th March 2007, 07:30
Hi Chris,

Welcome to Green Power Talk!
You mention North America as your area under investigation. I think you'll find that south of the border (ie. the USA) things are very different in renewable energy than north of the border (that'd be Canada). Lack of real incentives up here is still a big obstacle, since renewable energy is still very expensive in both equipment and installation. Despite that, I'm predicting a bright future for the RE trade!

I'll leave it at that. Others are far more qualified to answer your questions. Just wanted to say "hello". Be sure to post your final report!

-Rob-