“Spending more for less makes you poorer. In this case it applies to the country.
It is simple as that.
If PV was economical, it wouldn’t need massive subsidies to get people to purchase them. When your neighbor puts in solar panels, you’re paying for it whether you want to or not. “
If he is getting subsidies to pay for them, then yes. I f pays for them himself, then no.
I am in agreement with you regarding the economical problem with PV. However, it is getting better over time (Less money per watt, etc.)
My point is still valid that in hot areas of the country, PV supplies extra electricity when buildings use it most, and so it does reduce the required amount of 24/7 capacity of the utilities.
With all that said, I am looking forward to improvements in PV technology... Same as I look forward to improved battery technology.
PV technology is changing rapidly (in other words, I agree). In time, and I doubt that it will be much more time, it will be economical even without subsidies. My overall point is, just like with ethanol, government distorts markets and mis-allocates resources when they try to bend economic reality. “Green” energy is no different. The more we are forced to use, the poorer we become.