Learning from history: Exploring energy policy of the past, present and future

As we move closer to grid parity, it is essential to set a policy that allows solar to compete fairly with traditional sources of energy. Nick Chaset, Director of New Market Development and Government Affairs at Q-Cells North America, will discuss how best practices from European solar energy policy can be adopted in the U.S. to accelerate the competitiveness of solar.  Mr. Chaset will draw upon the experience of Q-Cells, Germany’s leading developer of PV projects with over 300 MW installed across Europe, moving into the emerging North American market and the learning process Q-Cells has undergone to become an active member of the U.S. solar community.  Specifically, Mr. Chaset will focus on how key elements of Germany’s FiT program have significantly reduced the cost to permit and interconnect solar projects in Germany and the lessons U.S. policy makers can learn from these policies.  Mr. Chaset will examine how Germany’s simplified approach to facilitating project interconnection and permitting are key levers to every major policy mechanism currently in place in the US, as well as to the long-term goal of grid parity.