Stationary Energy

Solar

Photovoltaics (PV), solar water heating (SWH), and passive solar design for buildings are three of the most popular technologies available today. According to the Energy Information Association, U.S. manufacturing of solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules grew at a strong pace in 2005. This occurred despite increases in production costs. The solar industry has been able to absorb most of the rising material costs because it has become more flexible in its production methods and supply arrangements.

• Consumption:  In 2004, 0.06% of the total energy consumed in the U.S. was from solar power.

• Supply:  There is approximately 397 MW of grid-connected solar energy capacity in the U.S. Manufacturers of solar energy modules have seen increases in orders for units and expect demand to continue to grow, despite their relatively high costs.