Bright Hopes For The Future Of Solar Energy

Research is shedding new light on an unexpectedConsumers can harness the power of the sun for
source of energy for heating homes and generatingthemselves more easily than ever. Solar panels you
electricity-the sun.see on buildings and homes have been available on
The sun-directly or indirectly-is the primary source forthe market for decades. New systems-which
most forms of energy found on Earth. Solar energy isincorporate solar into roofing shingles-are now
clean, abundant and renewable.aesthetically pleasing, efficient and durable.
Though we think of solar power as a new discovery,2006 ushers in new tax credits for solar energy
ancient civilizations found innovative ways to use solartechnologies and consumers may also be eligible for
energy. Among them, the Greeks, Romans andstate rebates.
Chinese all developed ways to use solar warmth forFor more information, consult with a tax professional,
their homes, including using southern exposures tocontact the Internal Revenue Service at or check out
maximize solar heating and making use of solar lighting.for the latest in tax credit information.
Now, thanks to innovative technologies, it's possible toSunlight isn't only used to generate electricity. It is also
capture this energy, concentrate it, store it and convertused to heat water, which can be used to warm
it into electricity.homes and businesses. Solar-powered radiant heating
Sunlight is converted into electricity using solar cells.systems run some industrial processes and drive
Solar cells are also called photovoltaic cells, or "PVturbines to generate electricity. Many solar thermal
cells" for short. PV cells were first developed in thetechnologies have been used in homes for decades
1950s for use in American space satellites. Today,and can last more than 20 years.
they are used for power needs ranging fromExperts believe that solar energy technologies can
telecommunications to rural electrification. PV cells canbenefit this nation in many ways. They have the
be found on items we use daily, such as calculators,potential to help diversify this country's energy supply,
flashlights, radios, landscape lighting and children's toys.reduce the dependence on imported fuels, improve air
Portable PV units are also available for emergencyquality, offset greenhouse gas emissions and stimulate
and disaster use, such as keeping cell phones andthe economy by helping to create jobs in the
small appliances charged when the user is away frommanufacturing and installation of solar energy systems.
the grid or during blackouts.