The costs of solar power have come down in recent years, but it is still expensive compared to the alternatives. Apples-to-apples comparisons are difficult and subject to regional differences. The U.S. Energy Information Administration did a comparison of various hypothetical plants going into operation in 2016.
The findings, listed in cost per kilowatt hour, were:
Solar: 21 cents.
Coal: 9 to 14 cents.
Nuclear: 11 cents.
Natural gas: 6 to 12 cents.
Comparisons of this type do not take into consideration the true cost of non-renewables. Factoring in the cost to the environment and human health would dramatically change the picture. Some say solar's high cost killed former Governor Crist's effort to create a renewable energy program for Florida. Will solar fare any better under the current Governor?
8.09.2011
COMPARING SOLAR COSTS TO NON-RENEWABLES
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