Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Pastimes : Clown-Free Zone... sorry, no clowns allowed -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Art Bechhoefer who wrote (102432)	5/15/2001 5:37:40 PM
From: Ilaine	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 436258

I agree with you that we are experiencing a "tragedy of the commons" situation, but I see it somewhat differently than you do. I used to hang out with some guys who wanted to install solar panels back in the 1970's, but cheap electricity made it impossible for them to compete. No incentive to buy alternative energy sources when electricity from the power company is cheap. Why is electricity cheap? Well, the electric utility companies have a monopoly, but governments say, "that's ok, as long as you don't charge us too much." When electricity is cheap, there is no incentive for conservation. That is the true tragedy of the commons. Energy efficient houses are standard in places like Minnesota, but not in California. That boggles my mind, I must admit. I thought people in California were environmentally conscious. It also boggles my mind why anyone would go to the expense of building and maintaining transmission lines if one's competitors can use them at cost.