Solar R&D get an investment boost

The sun is shining for the solar energy sector -- considered the most expensive among alternative energy source.

The US Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $21m investment for the development of next generation photovoltaic (PV) technology. 25 projects mostly from various universities were selected for the DOE's MAKE-SOLAR ENERGY-CHEAPER handouts. Each three-year award averages $900,000.

DOE said these new solar technologies have the potential to produce electricity at costs well below the current costs of grid-supplied electricity. DOE expects the chosen ones to produce prototype cells and/or processes by 2015.

As long as these new PV materials will not deplete our food supply, caused more greenhouse gas or make me lose consciousness when accidentally swallowed, I'm all for using the sun's power to turn on my television especially if they will lower my current electricity bills. Let's hope these projects fulfill their promises and not get burned in the process.