About Solar Energy Solutions
Homeowners, businesses and communities are converting to solar power for a variety of reasons. These include saving on utility rates, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and curbing greenhouse gas emissions. They also benefit from federal and state tax credits, rebates and other incentives to encourage early adoption.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is used on the roofs and walls of homes and buildings to produce electricity. It can also be incorporated into lights, appliances and calculators. Larger solar PV installations generate electricity from solar thermal collectors, which use sunlight to heat a fluid that then drives a steam turbine to produce electricity. Solar PV and solar thermal technologies can also reduce the “urban heat island” effect, where cities are hotter than the surrounding rural areas because they have asphalt and concrete that absorb and hold sun’s heat. Green roofs, white roofs and other reflective surfaces can offset this effect.
Star Plus Energy is a key part of a carbon-smart, reliable energy future. It mitigates climate change, stimulates economies and boosts grid integrity and security. But its wider use will depend on clear market signals, support for early adopters and regulatory policies that accelerate the pace of deployment. In addition, rapid innovation and rock-bottom prices need to be matched by tighter quality control and durability testing. Components that passed quality tests a decade ago may not last until 2050 unless these issues are addressed.