Electricity-starved Iraq turns to solar streetlights

[jpak]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/world/5908470.html

BAGHDAD — In a city with constant electricity shortages but no lack of sunshine, the new buzz is solar energy.

Teams of engineers have appeared along major Baghdad roadways, bolting panels and bulbs to rows of towering steel poles to make solar-powered streetlights.

The workers who turned up recently in the upscale Karada district approached the task with near-religious fervor.

"We are lighting up the city with solar power," Sajad Hussein declared when queried by curious residents. "People say it is a gift from God."

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[CJCRANE]

1. Good for them!

That's a great idea.

[Captain Angry]

2. Take the power that's there.

Can you imagine what kind of solar grid that Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia could build for themselves? Add wind power, and they could be completely renewable. Move to electric vehicles for government functions, and then to the citizens. Sell the oil to the fools that still use it.