Photovoltaics

The sun is a very powerful source of energy.  In fact, the amount of sunlight that hits the earth in a half hour provides enough energy to power the whole world for an entire year!  Today, the sun is being used to make electricity through a process called photovoltaics.  Tiny solar, or PV, cells made from silicon, an element found in sand, are used to make the solar panels you see on houses, schools, or construction signs.  They’re the same kind of cells used in solar-powered calculators and watches. 

For more information about solar energy, and to see how much electricity some photovoltaic systems are producing, go to:
Madison Gas and Electric - Solar Energy