Source: John Moore, Getty Images

In 2009, the amount of electric output of residential solar panels doubled over the year before. Despite serious economic hardship, the solar industry in the United States gained huge strides, propped up by expanding federal credits and falling system prices. While solar power still only makes up around 1% of the electricity in this Country, those involved in the solar industry expect 2010 to be a breakout year for them. Due to the great variation of State credits and incentives, the overall growth of solar is slow, but many signs point to the positive. Read this article to learn more about the overall solar industry and where the U.S. ranks in terms of worldwide annual installations.

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Caption: Roger Ressmeyer / Corbis

This article takes you on a trip back in time through the past 100 years’ history of solar power. As many may be unaware, solar power is not a recent phenomenon. In fact, the Romans warmed their bathhouses with sunlight streaming through large and strategically placed southern windows. Throughout the history of solar power, shortages of more traditional energy sources have spiked both innovation and availability of solar power technologies, and in today’s world, where oil rises above $100/barrel, the possibilities of solar technology capture the minds of many. Read this article and experience the amazing history of solar power!

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Source: Lourdes Segade for the NY Times

Over the past few years, Spain has embarked on an ambitious solar energy program. Large government subsidies helped fuel a make over for this country, shifting the employment of entire towns from coalmines to solar farms, thrusting Spain into the number 2 spot behind Germany with regard to solar capacity. But, as much or more has been learned from the current downturn in the Spanish solar industry. Sky-high subsidies were unable to support a healthy, self-sufficient industry and poorly, hastily designed solar farms failed to maximize production that otherwise would have competed with more traditional fuel sources. Many countries, especially the U.S., are closely watching what has occurred in Spain in order to learn how best to approach a national solar program. What are your thoughts? Read this full article to learn more!

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Solar power technology has captured the imaginations of people from all around the world. There has never been a time like now when clean and renewable sources of energy have been paired with cutting edge technologies that provide so much promise for the future. With the increased attention being paid to solar power, and its potential impact on future energy independence, we could all use some background information on how this all works. “Solar 101” is a great way to begin or build upon your knowledge of solar power technology. [Read this article]

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