Barbara Wolcott

In the following viewpoint Barbara Wolcott reports that solar power is becoming commercially viable due to advances in the design of photovoltaic cells, which transform sunlight into electricity. She explains that many analysts support the use of solar energy because it does not harm the environment the way burning fossil fuels does. In addition, experiments with solar power in Sacramento and New York illustrate that municipalities can utilize this emerging energy source to save money. Barbara Wolcott is a freelance writer.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to BP Amoco, how much has the cost of solar cells decreased from 1980 prices"
2. Until recently, what has been the cost of a solar power installation for an individual home, according to the author"
3. According to Wolcott, what engineering problem did the New York Power...