And he doesn't sound like a quiet retirement will tempt him away from TREC any time soon.

CNN: Biography: Gerhard Knies

Meanwhile, the escalating conflict in Georgia, which has exposed the extent of Europe's energy insecurity, has undoubtedly increased the TREC plan's appeal.

FORBES: The Saudi Arabia Of Solar Energy

The Union, which seeks to promote relations between North Africa, the Middle East and Europe, considers TREC's solar energy proposal one of its top priorities.

FORBES: Magazine Article

The Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy Cooperation, or TREC, is the brainchild of a consortium led by the controversial Club of Rome and includes influential members like the German Aerospace Bureau and several universities in Europe and the Middle East.

FORBES: The Saudi Arabia Of Solar Energy

While TREC's plan is nowhere near becoming a reality, it seems inevitable that, in one form or another, someone will try to capitalize on the vast solar energy resources available in the sun-soaked countries of the Sun Belt.

FORBES: The Saudi Arabia Of Solar Energy