January/February 2006 Issue
Solar Energy Cost Breakthrough Ahead?


Online Featured Stories:
Solar Energy Cost Breakthrough Ahead?
     
Scientists Chart New Horizons
Researchers look to cutting-edge advances for the solar technologies of tomorrow.
By Nathan S. Lewis, Ph.D., and George Crabtree, Ph.D.
  Photovoltaic Industry
Pushes the Limits

One company looks to thin-film production efficiencies as the path to widespread adoption. By John R. Tuttle, Ph.D.

Models of Excellence
The Solar Decathlon’s sun-powered houses take center stage on the National Mall.
By Richard King
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Zero-Energy House Defies Northwest Climate
Despite its location on the rainy Oregon coast, solar is the primary energy source for this award-winning home.
By Marnie McPhee
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On the cover, this Cannon Beach, Ore., house proves that a house need not be located in the Sun Belt to produce as much electricity as it consumes annually. The two-bedroom home incorporates energy efficiency, passive solar heating and cooling, solar water- and space-heating, solar power generation, advanced HVAC and more.
Photo courtesy of Greg Kozawa, Portland, Ore.

Fueling the Biodiesel Debate
Filling your gas tank with this renewable fuel may reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but will it also contribute to smog?
By Duncan Callaway, Ph.D.
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A Turning Point for Solar Energy?

New federal tax credits are a strong step toward robust U.S. solar markets.
By Rhone Resch
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Columns
in this Issue


Chair's Corner: Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency: Something to Believe In
By Ronal W. Larson, Ph.D.
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Investing in Clean Energy: A Wave of IPOs
By Rona Fried, Ph.D.

Small Wind Systems: Sharing a Solution
By Mick Sagrillo

Ask Ken: Energy-Saving Q&As
By Ken Sheinkopf

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SOLAR TODAY'S columns and departments.