Light distribution isn't constant over the planet - the poles are
different than the equator,etc. Or does this solar constant already
account for these variances and provide an average?
>
> Relative to most people, I lead an extremley affluent life style,
> but still only probably consume perhaps 10 kilowatts.
Does this account for institutional/industrial use? Perhaps *you*
don't personally use the energy, but what about the aluminum
smelter that made the foil in your pantry and the siding on your house?
>
> Even at 10% efficiency, 1 thousandth of the Earth's surface should
> thus be able to provide sufficient energy for all current needs.
As suspicious as Jim's initial claim was (solar is not enough),
this sounds equally unlikely (1/1000 is enough).
>
> gordon
>
Ron.