If you can't handle volatile prices and know your demand in advance then simply by PPAs or energy futures?

You know, the standard method all markets use to handle volatility. But apparently electricity is different and we need enormous subsidies instead.

Electricity is a bit of different in that it is an general utility, closely attached to government for delivery and production, and historically dependency on natural resources or caused pollution (social impact). Electricity is also essential in many places for human survival, and is critical for economical growth and social stability. During war, electricity is treated different from other commodities in a very clear way.

But my point is that all that isn't necessary the important part. The voting population are not always rational participants in the market, nor are companies. There are Nash equilibriums and strategies with local maximums that results in irrational consumer behavior. When there are major social consequences from irrational behavior then people will look towards social, ie political solutions. That generally means regulation, subsidies and if all else fails, government control. The only way to avoid that is to either eliminate the social consequences, or eliminate irrational behavior.

It's simply not realistic to expect consumers or most small businesses to participate in futures markets. And futures markets sometimes break down with the counterparty failing to deliver. That's not a problem with most commodities but electricity shortages cause real problems.

I think it is different than other commodities since it is very expensive to store electricity. A diesel powered generator and tank full of diesel is probably the best option.