Elon Musk’s plans to merge Tesla and SolarCity make sense, not only economically, but for a greener future, writes Toby Shapshak In among the gloom and doom in the US, there is a sliver of good news that we should focus on. And it has a delightful SA connection. Elon Musk, the Pretoria-born icon of innovation, announced a breakthrough in solar technology that has far-reaching implications for power supply around the world.Most people know that Musk is the CEO of rocket-launching SpaceX and electric car company Tesla. Until recently, it wasn't widely known that he is the chairman and largest shareholder of SolarCity.Instead of placing solar panels on top of roofs, Musk unveiled roof tiles that are solar panels. Demonstrating how tough and stylish they are, he proudly pointed out that they are cheaper than the usual (US) slate or shingle tiles.It’s been the dream of sci-fi writers for decades: a solar-panel roof that gives you power while being impervious to hail. Now it’s possible.Th...
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