Solar America Initiative (Energy Priorities)

Energy Minute: The U.S. Department of Energy announced $168 million in funding to accelerate solar energy technology development. This brief podcast explains what the research will accomplish and how it will happen. (podcast)

by Denis Du Bois
April 10, 2007

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Music by Chris Keister

What is the SAI?

President Bush first announced the Advanced Energy Initiative in his 2006 State of the Union Address. The Solar America Initiative is part of that. The goal is to make solar energy cost-competitive with conventional sources, without subsidies, by 2015.

What will participants research?

The program's funding will be spread across a range of technologies, from utility-grade concentrating solar, to packaged residential units.

How will the $168 million be spent?

The DOE emphasizes that the amount is up to $168 million, which isn't a lot to begin with. California has committed $3.2 billion for solar power installation rebates alone.

The actual funding appropriated by Congress will be spread over three years.

Who gets the money?

The DOE will select 13 projects, involving 50 companies, plus universities, nonprofits, and national labs. Participants will form teams to pursue the projects, each focusing on a different technology.

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Energy Priorities delivers information, ideas and commentary on smart energy -- a resource for businesses who want to be more informed energy users -- an asset to entrepreneurs and investors in the new energy sector. Topics include energy-related technologies and best practices for business, presented in non-technical language, with insights that help you take action. Published in the public interest by P5 Group, Inc., Seattle USA. ISSN 1938-7326