As costs plummet, solar power is growing fast, creating jobs

The viability of the solar industry has been called into question recently in the wake of the bankruptcy of Solyndra, a domestic solar panel manufacturer that received a Department of Energy loan guarantee. Allegations of impropriety in the loan process are being used by opponents of renewables to try to discredit solar power.

Here are some facts about solar:

-The solar industry employs more than 100,000 Americans, more than twice as many as in 2009. They work at more than 5,000 companies, the vast majority being small businesses, in all 50 states.

-The U.S. solar industry grew by 69% in the past year, making it one of the fastest growing sectors in the U.S. economy.

- Since the beginning of 2010, the price of solar panels has dropped by 30%, and costs continue to fall, making solar an even more viable choice for residential and business customers.

- The U.S. was a net exporter of solar products in 2010 by $2 billion. 

- Solar power in the U.S. now exceeds 3,100 megawatts, enough to power more than 630,000 homes.

- Continued industry growth enhances America's energy security and diversifies its domestic energy portfolio.

Source: Solar Energy Industry Association