Ethanol From Waste Straw

--- In ssi_list@... "Paul D. Fernhout"
> >
> > Terrestrial PV systems require batteries for energy storage, this
is
> > another major toxic waste problem.
>
> Yes and no. It depends on the setup and expectations. Again,
recycling
> technology for batteries is continually improving, and battery tech
is

Most batteries are not recycled, they are tossed into land fills.
This is especially true in developing ocuntries.

> continually improving in various ways. Also, hybrid systems with
PV,
> some batteries, and a generator/heat cogenerator using liquid fuels
> derived from PV powered fuel plants or other sources are likely to
be a
> good near term solution and are already economical in some
situations

Normally not economic. There are exceptions to everything.

> --despite overall tax subsidies focused mainly on fossil fuels and
nukes.
>
> > The cost of the storage systems, whether batteries or flywheels
or
> > whatever, make terrrestrial PV uneconomic. SPS does not need
> > storage systems.
>
> But it needs a grid -- which may make it uneconomic in thirty years
vs.
> local power as the grid costs a lot to maintain and extend. Also,
again,

No, grids are cheaper than storage systems.

> PV can producing hydrogen or liquid fuels which can power systems
when
> the sun isn't shining.
>

This is just another expensive form of storage, similar to batteries.