Solar Energy - The Future's So Bright

Solar energy is a relatively young technology but it has come a long way in a short time. Residential solar panels weren't commercially available until the early 1990s and were prohibitively expensive. Since then, the price has come down a lot while the technology has improved by leaps and bounds, such that, in 2010, the future of solar has never looked brighter. Let's take a look into our solar crystal ball and see where we may be going from here.

Where Are We Now?

Solar energy technology has come a long way in a relatively short time. And just as well, because, with the frightening effect global warming is having on the planet and everything living here, there's never been a greater need for solar energy and the other renewable energies that are also being developed.

Solar panels are popping up all over as more and more homeowners and businesses see the benefits of solar energy. Homes are being heated by solar thermal technology, as are more and more swimming pools in people's backyards.

Even utility companies are getting in on the act, as they're building solar power plants in areas of the southwestern United States, which receive more sunlight on a consistent basis, with the biggest solar power plant in the world being located near Kramer Junction, California.

Everything's Going Solar

Have you noticed how many things are powered by solar energy these days? If you walk around your neighbourhood, the chances are you'll see solar garden lights guiding somebody up the path to the front door. Next time you're in a public area such as an airport and you throw some garbage away, was that a solar trash compactor you deposited your precious discards in? When you park your car at a meter, does that ticket dispenser have a solar panel in it?

These are just a few examples of how prevalent solar energy is becoming and the different kinds of applications it's being used for.

As you're driving along the freeway, that's probably a solar panel that's powering that electronic sign you're looking at.

See what I mean?

The Solar Future's Shining Bright