Solar energy: Charged for the future
Once regarded as costly and impractical, solar technology is now poised to play a larger role in the future, thanks to new developments that could result in lower costs and improved efficiency. Potential applications include cell phones, computers, automobiles, homes and office buildings. The American Chemical Society will address the progress and challenge of this technology during a first of its kind symposium, "Science and Technology of Next Generation Photovoltaics," from Sunday, Sept. 10, through Tuesday, Sept. 12, in San Francisco during the Society's 232nd national meeting.

Soaring energy costs make solar power a bright idea
hey say every cloud has a silver lining. With the hefty rises in electricity and gas prices over the past year, the lining is that solar power, for most of us, is now a realistic, cost-effective option. Until recently the expense of putting solar panels on the roof meant only a few eco-warriors with money were doing it. Anyone else concluded that the payback period was too long. But solar power, if you will pardon the phrase, is fast coming in from the cold.