Solar energy is on everyone's mind and has become a major issue in economics and politics and is an ongoing focus of environmentalists. New legislation is passed continuously that affects commercial customers and residential customers of solar energy alike.

Here are some of the most recent updates in the solar energy industry:

Federal Tax Credit Extension

October 3, 2008 - As part of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, tax credits for solar energy systems were extended until 2016. The tax credit is for 30% of the value of the installed photovoltaic system. For more information about the tax credit and other ways to save on energy bills, visit the EnergyStar website.

California Solar Initiative

The California Solar Initiative offers incentives based on the productivity of a solar energy system. The more energy the system produces, the higher the incentive. However, the incentives decrease over time as more solar energy is produced by Californians. To view current incentives and rebates, visit the CSI's Statewide Trigger Point Tracker website.