German "green" dictatorship in Marburg Germany

Germany is the top renewable energy investment market in the world with $14 Billion in investments in 2007. Number two on the list was China at $12 billion, followed by the US, with $10 Billion in investments in 2007. (source: Business Week Aug 11, 2008 pg 60)

Germany also has the most number of solar panel installations,(over 1200 MW installed in 2007) due to a government solar subsidy program, tripple to its next nearest rival, Japan (which had over 400 MegaWatts (MW) installed in 2007) see chart above.

Production of solar cells, in megawatts, in 2007 was on a similar scale: China produced 1,188 MW's; EU 1,063 MW's; Japan manufactured 920 MW's and US was in 4th place at 266 MW's. (source: Business Week Aug 11, 2008 pg 60)

So I'm surprised by the news, that Marburg Germany has legislated a manditory solar program, which some critics have called "green dictatorship."

According to the New York Times:

"The [Marburg] town council took the significant step in June of moving from merely encouraging citizens to install solar panels to making them an obligation.  The ordinance, the first of its kind in Germany, will require solar panels not only on new buildings, which fewer people oppose, but also on existing homes that undergo renovations or get new heating systems or roof repairs. To give the regulation teeth, a fine of 1,000 euros, about $1,500, awaits those who do not comply.Critics howled that the rule, which is to go into effect on Oct. 1, constituted an attack on the rights of property owners.  The regional government in Giessen stepped in and warned that it would overturn the rule."

What do you think? What are the benefits? Minuses? What's interesting about this legislation?