Winning the Smart Grid Cleantech Race? Chu Says New Carbon Policy Essential

Energy Secretary Steven Chu said the only way to ramp up investment and innovation in the global Smart Grid cleantech race is "a long-term signal in the form of a price on carbon that will slowly ratchet up, and a cap on carbon." That signal would let utilities know which way the wind blows as they consider going with wind, coal or other energy sources — and would encourage lenders to make loans on new technology.

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Quick Take: Frankly, Secretary Chu is right. We're not ahead of the pack on batteries, electricity transmission and other key elements of a robust Smart Grid cleantech scenario, and we could be. His stance on carbon and what it will take to succeed may not be popular, but we appreciate the reality check.

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