Question:

Now that Pacific Gas and Electric has purchased the rights to Alla Weinstein's technology, will they deep-six it, as has been done by the auto industry with patents/inventions that would have resulted in better fuel economy through innovative engine designs?

Answer:

Alla's technology was purchased by Finavera. PG&E did not buy the technology, but rather signed a Power Purchase Agreement with Finavera, agreeing to buy the electricity they generate with the AquaBuOY.

There are so many innovators out there, it's unlikely that anyone can strangle this wave of innovation. Certainly some incumbents will throw up every roadblock they can to protect the status quo, but PG&E is not one of the obstructers.

PG&E is taking more chances on this cutting edge technology than almost anyone. That's not altruism, but the fact that they are operating under the most rigorous emissions laws in America, including California's renewable portfolio standard and the carbon cap established by AB32. Their actions are proof of just how effective -and necessary – political leadership can be.