As proud Australians, we like to think we are well in advance of many other countries in so many areas.
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Not so with solar power.
In 2012, China led the world in solar investment, pumping US $31 billion into the industry.
A bit better than us?
Saudi Arabia also invests heavily in solar, by putting more than $100 billion into developing 41 GW of capacity.
This will cover 30 per cent of its power needs by 2030.
In Australia we have seen household electricity prices increase by two thirds since 2007, even though the cost of solar power has fallen significantly.
Gas prices have also risen and are quite volatile.
Deutsche Bank states there are already 19 regional markets around the world in which solar PV panels can match, or undercut local electricity prices without the need for government subsidies.
So, come on Aussies, come on.
_ BILL CARNEY, Riverside.
