IV. Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D)

Many of the parties to this proceeding observe that solar technologies are not yet cost-effective. We share this concern and adopt the CSI with the objective of supporting the development of an industry that can compete with more conventional technologies and that is robust without government subsidies. We have not addressed here a specific strategy to effect that objective but intend to pursue it in the near future. Accordingly, we intend to allocate up to 5% of each year's adopted budget to RD&D that explores the most promising solar technologies and market development strategies. We will direct our staff to work with the CEC to manage this effort using consultants and existing research institutions.