Three step strategy

In the October issue of Windpower Monthly we argued for a radical new future policy: the introduction of tradable renewable energy credits. A common theme runs through the arguments of those not in favour of renewable credits: fear of rocking the boat. The debate in this issue points to a three stage strategy: building an industry (capital subsidies); catalysing a market (renewable energy "feed-in" tariffs, or REFITs); moving wind into the global mainstream (renewable credits). All three stages can coexist in any one market.