http://forum.onlineopinion.com.au/thread.asp?article=11868#203233

hey bonmot, everybody with an electric hot water system is spending about 1/3 of their electricity bill on it, at discounted rates BTW. Solar hot water water systems are more expensive, but practical, proven, "on the shelf" technology, to name but one.

we all know there are plenty of others.

Frankfurter from a bygone era (or are you really that sensitive new age guy?)

I was sorta hoping you would see the big picture but it seems the question went over your head. Let me make it simpler.

Japan uses nuclear power for 30% of its electricity generation, for a very rational Japanese reason. What power generation do you think they should replace it with and would you want it in your back yard?

Hint: "on the shelf" hot water systems won't power big cities, industry or very fast trains (and plenty other examples) - and particularly sausage, in winter or when the sun ain't shining.