August 2, 2010
The solar market is going strong, according to the latest report by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). In “U.S. Solar Market Trends 2009,” the IREC concludes that “in spite of poor economic conditions, solar markets continue to grow in the United States due to consumer interest in green technologies, concern about energy prices, and financial incentives available.”
Interstate Renewable Energy Council
Be sure to check out the full report for more detailed information on photovoltaic, heating and cooling, and concentrating solar power (CSP) trends and progress in 2009, but here are some of the most salient findings:
- More Solar: The number of solar systems installed increased by 18% in 2009 from 2008.
- Residential solar’s leading the way: Residential solar photovoltaic capacity doubled in 2009 since 2008 and represents 36% of all new grid-connected PV capacity. The non-residential sector experienced no growth.
- Growth by State: California represents about half of all the solar PV capacity installed in the United States in 2009. In 2009, grid-connected solar PV capacity in New Jersey increased by 155%, in Colorado by 8%, in Arizona by 243%, and in Massachusetts by 174% from 2008.
Overall, home solar was a hot commodity in 2009. And, according to experts, the future will be even brighter. The IREC predicts 50-100% growth in the number of grid-connected solar photovoltaic installs in 2010.
