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Photovoltaic (PV) cells, also called solar cells, convert light directly to electricity, PV systems are modular in nature, and solar energy is more evenly distributed around the world than any other renewable energy resource. For these reasons PV is practical on a much smaller scale and possible in many more locations than any other renewable energy resource. PV cells are usually wafers of silicone, or thin films deposited on glass, metal, or plastic.

GREAT NEWS : On July 9, 2008, Governor Rendell signed into law the Alternative Energy Investment Act which, among other things, will provide $100 million in grants for solar photovoltaic systems and solar water heating systems for homes and small businesses. The legislation also provides $80 million of support for larger solar installations and solar companies. The residential and small business program will be managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which is now working to design the new program. The large solar installation and solar business program will be administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), which is also working on the program design.

http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/dep/site/default.asp

MORE GREAT NEWS: On Friday October 3rd, President Bush signed into law the Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, which included the long awaited 8-year extension of the solar investment tax credit. Of major importance, the act removed the $2000 limit on the tax credit for residential systems. Now, both commercial and residential systems will be eligible for a 30% tax credit. Effective January 1st 2009, the impact of the policy will be stable, rapid growth for the industry as well as a significant increase in the affordability and financial return of solar electricity for homeowners. The same force that fueled the dramatic growth of the commercial solar market will now be directed towards residential customers. Needless to say, there is going to be a boom in residential solar in 2009 and beyond.