Do solar panels use light or heat to generate electricity?

Confusion over the impact of heat and light in solar power starts with the fact that there are different types of solar power. One type of power, called solar thermal, does use the sun's light to generate heat which can be used for things like generating steam. The other type of solar power is generated by photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, which use light to generate electricity directly. 
By: 
SunPower Staff
January 9th, 2020

A Look Back at Solar Milestones of the 2010s

The 2010s have come to a close, and what a decade it was for solar energy in the United States. Let’s look back at some of the major solar milestones we hit in the 2010s.
By: 
Solar Energy Industries Association
January 6th, 2020

California is One Million Solar Rooftops Strong

Today in California, former Governors Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jerry Brown celebrated a huge milestone; one million homes and businesses have gone solar, holding hope for a fossil-fuel free future and cleaner air for all.
By: 
Tom Werner
December 19th, 2019

Which states save the most with solar?

Photovoltaic (PV) solar power is gaining in popularity across many states. However, a variety of factors determine just how much solar installation costs in any given location. Those factors change not just from state to state, but from house to house.
By: 
SunPower Staff
December 9th, 2019

Solar-Powered Bridge House Inspires Eco-Friendly Living

Bridge House in Los Angeles demonstrates the true potential of sustainable living while offering easy, energy-saving ideas every homeowner should consider. 
By: 
Dan Brunn
December 3rd, 2019

Why Some Governments Offer Rebates and Incentives for Home Solar 

In the latest SunPower blog post, we talk about why governments offer rebates and incentives for solar. We’ll also go over details about the major solar tax credit from the federal government and how long it will be around.
By: 
SunPower Staff
November 26th, 2019

Solar at a Megawatt a Minute

SunPower has set out to transform how business and government go solar. The United States alone has billions of square feet of commercial roofs that are flat, unobstructed, and perfect for solar. This week at Google Next UK, we will announce that that Instant Design technology now works for commercial buildings.  
By: 
Jake Wachman
November 19th, 2019

SunPower's New Path Ensures Customers Continue to Come First

We recently announced that SunPower is separating into two independent companies: SunPower and Maxeon Solar Technologies. The separation means that SunPower can zero in on what it does best -- helping residential and commercial customers get the most efficient PV solar systems money can buy.
By: 
Norm Taffe
November 18th, 2019

Solar Energy Continues to Shift Auto Industry

More U.S. car dealers are installing solar energy systems to power a good portion of their entire operations and save money.
By: 
Ryan Ferrero
November 14th, 2019

Five Reasons to Sell SunPower® Solar Solutions

Considering a career in the solar industry? Here are 5 reasons why that is an excellent idea.
By: 
Cole Peyron
November 6th, 2019

What are California’s Massive Power Outages Like?

Here's how one Northern California family spent 48 hours without electricity during a mandatory power outage.
By: 
Jon Thompson
November 4th, 2019

National Tour Highlights Next Gen Solar Technology

We're taking our colorful 32-foot solar showroom on a coast-to-coast tour this fall to show solar dealers and homeowners our latest solar products.
By: 
SunPower Staff
October 22nd, 2019

IBC vs. PERC: What's the Best Type of Solar Panel

Learn about the pros/cons of IBC and PERC solar cell technologies.
By: 
SunPower Staff
October 14th, 2019

How a Solar Battery Works During a Blackout

As Californians face rolling blackouts to prevent fires, solar plus storage systems can offer much-needed back-up power during power outages.
By: 
Norm Taffe
October 9th, 2019

A New York Neighborhood Goes Solar With SunPower

Find out why nine families in one Goshen, NY, neighborhood went solar with SunPower.
By: 
SunPower Staff
September 30th, 2019

4 Reasons to Buy a SunPower Equinox® Home Solar System With Storage

Coming soon: SunPower Equinox Storage, an all-in-one home solar solution with a storage battery to help homeowners save on electricity costs and have peace-of-mind if the power goes out.
By: 
Norm Taffe
September 18th, 2019

Design a SunPower Home Solar System Today in 30 Seconds

See what solar panels will look like on your roof in just 30 seconds!
By: 
Terrence Brown
September 9th, 2019

 East Coast Homeowner Chooses SunPower Solar Twice

Check out this video of a SunPower customer who chose our solar twice!
By: 
SunPower Staff
August 21st, 2019

Estimate How Much Can You Save With Solar

Learn how to determine how much you can save with solar.
By: 
SunPower Staff
August 12th, 2019

SunPower’s Shingled Technology Earns Chinese Patent

New Chinese patent recognizes proprietary Performance Series solar cell technology.
By: 
Marc Robinson
August 5th, 2019