How does the cost of wind generation compare with Photo voltaics and Solar Thermal ?
Both Wind and Photo voltaics ( solar cells, usually in sheets which convert sunlight directly into electricity ) are in commercial production, while Solar thermals ( directing the suns rays by the use of mirrors on to a central heating element, to turn water to steam which is used to drive a turbine and generator ) is still in a prototype stage with some large commercial size installations proposed. At this stage, Photo voltaics installed cost approximately $8 / watt, which it is hoped to reduce to $3 in 2010. They are typically used in Suburban sites, and naturally depend on location, intensity of sun available and duration of sunlight. Solar thermal is still in the demo stage, with the expected installed costs around $10 / watt, and is expected to be used mainly by large commercial companies, and again depend on location, intensity of sun available and duration of sun light. Wind energy for small installations is about $3.30 / watt but is expected to reduce to $1.60 by 2010; large co