GE accelerates solar energy program

Fairfield, Conn.-based General Electric Company (GE) is accelerating its solar energy research program with funds from a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as part of President Bush's Solar America Initiative. The funding for the first year of GE's project is expected to be roughly $8.1 million with approximately $18.6 million available over three years if the GE-led team meets its goals.

The funding is subject to award negotiation and appropriation from the U.S. Congress.