Optimism on solar energy
U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu struck an optimistic note about the future of solar energy Thursday but said the economic benefits of the emerging clean-energy industry will be reaped elsewhere if the business is not encouraged at home. “Invented in America but made in China is not good enough,” Chu said. “Invented in America, made in America has to be the way to go.” Chu said the global recession has hit the solar energy industry hard, decreasing demand that in turn has lowered prices for solar products. While the bankruptcy of California-based solar panel maker Solyndra has dominated headlines, the global difficulties of the industry have not gotten as much attention. Chinese solar panel makers have also been hard hit, Chu said, but they have been protected by the Chinese government to keep the industry there afloat. Chu said analysts are certain the costs of solar panels will continue to drop over the...
