It&#x27;s a question of local vs global optimization. Do we only consider energy generation tech on its current path, or explore other possible paths to lower cost tech? It&#x27;s unknown if some alternate energy tech could provide lower costs per KW unless they&#x27;re explored. Even if prototypes cost more, one must try to at least imagine what the costs are at scale.<p>Beyond the direct costs there&#x27;s also to cost of the new tech vs direct cost + external costs of current tech. One knows that burning natural gas has an externalities of adding carbon to the atmosphere.