Photovoltaics in Texas: part two: strategies for growth

The second part of a two-part series on photovoltaics (PV) industry in Texas is presented. According to the US Department of Energy, 20 states and the District of Columbia have adopted Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). The RPS requires a states electricity providers to collectively generate a set percentage of all electricity from renewable resources. California stands out among the states in promoting renewable energy. It leads the nation in setting energy standards and in both venture and public capital investment in "clean tech." This series of articles has outlined photovoltaic developments and initiatives in other states and in Germany and has tried to identify opportunities to pursue in developing a solar industry strategy for Texas. Here is a set of initiatives, reforms, proposals, and recommendations: 1. Stimulate demand. 2. Create research pipeline. 3. Create economic incentives. 4. Leverage excess semiconductor capacity. 5. Expand silicon processing. 6. Institute retail net metering. 7. Develop a strategy for high-surface-area electronics industry in Texas.