Changes

Photovoltaic power is electricity generated by photovoltaic or "solar" cells, which convert light energy from the sun into electrical energy. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_cell 1] Solar cells have come a long way, both in efficiency and cost,[http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS79707+21-Aug-2008+PRN20080821 12] and are an increasingly viable and common way to offset electricity use, both domestic and commercial[http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-GreenBusiness/idUSTRE52J5VW20090320 23]. The key drawback in solar energy generation is that when the sun goes down, there is no new energy created. As such, it's use is dependent on storage of energy for use during the night. However, as one article points out, it "generates most of its power during electricity production maximizes at under the same conditions that tend to overtax powergrids; hot sunny days when air-conditioning demand is highest and regional power grids are most stressed." [http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-GreenBusiness/idUSTRE52J5VW20090320 3]. A number of storage options have also been implemented or suggested, ranging from high capacity electric batteries, to compressed air storage to use to turn turbines, to hydrogen generation for use in fuel cells. [http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=a-solar-grand-plan 4]Solar "farms" can be set up in land that is not suited for other purposes like farming, making it relatively cheap. Typically, such farms are most viable in locations away from cities, requiring High Voltage Direct Current lines to be installed to transport the power.[http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=a-solar-grand-plan 45] Another key benefit of solar panels is that they can be installed with little to no impact on their environment, making them ideal for on-site energy generation, reducing losses incurred in transportation of energy.