The recognition of peak oil is one step in the ten steps to recovery. Focusing on solutions like solar power is the next step.  I see that as a good sign.  We can only focus on the problem for so long.  We can only hope for the day when peak oil conferences are unnecessary.  When one starts taking steps away from oil dependence, then one doesn't need to go back and analyze the problem.

The debates will continue on peak oil for several more years. We cannot wait for its ultimate resolution before action is taken.  Solar will only be a part of the solution but has more ultimate promise than alternatives like ethanol. Solar may never be considered economically competitive. But we can't affort to debate it for ten more years while the planet warms.

For growing numbers of people, whether or not peak oil is here or will be here in 20 years is beside the point. Global warming is here and cannot be addressed by more oil consumption. A definitive proof that peak oil is here would be interesting and icing on the cake, but is not necessary to make the progress that needs to be made.

Good for California. Each of us needs  urge our local representatives to follow suit, using California has an example.