EU coal and gas plants closing quicker than expected

[rcjordan]

Nearly half of the remaining 260 GW of coal and gas-fired generation in Europe is cash-flow negative

http://www.powerengineeringint.com/articles/2015/05/ubs-report-shows-coal-and-gas-plants-closing-quicker-than-expected.html

[BoL]

There was a mini baby-boom in 70's UK during the 3-day week (when coal miners were on strike)

This is what Denmark and the rest of the EU maybe needs

[rcjordan]

>baby-boom in 70's

Same when NYC had its power failure.

[rcjordan]

Everybody underestimates just how fast the capitalist system can switch if it's cheaper and/or more convenient.  Even infrastructure, look at landlines. We're fast approaching that point with solar.

Now, for a south-of-the-Mason-Dixon suburban lot with good exposure, I believe I could build an off-grid home for only $10k more than when hooked to utilities. People forget that utility connection fees and installation costs are several thousand dollars.

[rcjordan]

<added>

Just popped up on my feed

Solar capacity surged 30 percent in 2014 to more than 20 gigawatts and will more than double by the end of 2016

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-05-26/solar-as-fastest-growing-u-s-power-source-rivals-shale-boom