Doesn't mean the first instinct needs to be public ownership of it, though. The tax revenue will come on its own.
> Do you think we'd be enjoying solar boom today were it not for public investment?
This is somewhat awkward because it also wouldn't be where it's at today without cheap Chinese panels, and I doubt US tax subsidies would have been enough to make up for China's manufacturing expertise.
Govt routinely provides seed capital, grants, financing, patents, and other perks. Which then attracts private interests.
Often jump starting entire sectors, creating new markets.
Do you think we'd be enjoying solar boom today were it not for public investment?