You have surely heard about the growing use of solar power as a viable source of alternate energy using photovoltaic cells, but what you may not yet know is that there is another solar power system called the PV system. Here the system is connected to the grid electrical system that is closest to it. In case there is excess solar energy collected, the extra amount is quickly transferred to the grid system as a way to reduce the dependence of the grid system on hydroelectrically generated electricity.  

For the home owner, being linked to the PV system ensures cost reduction when compared to a full-fledged solar system. You are also playing your role in reducing pollution as well as loading of the grid system.  There also exists centralized solar power capturing units which cater to the needs of smaller towns or communities living in suburban areas.  

As a testimonial of their belief in solar energy as a viable and cost-effective source of alternate energy, some big companies have also started to use it for commercial use. Some examples: Google has put a 1.6 megawatt solar power rooftop generator at its headquarters and Wal-Mart is keen to install a huge 100 megawatt solar power generator for its own use.   

Governments of countries like Japan, Germany, the US and Switzerland are promoting the use of solar energy by way of offering government subsidies, tax incentives to companies as well as individuals who are willing to switch to solar power for their own needs of electrical and heat energy. This could be a future goldmine for investors as the technology in this particular field gets more advanced and when more sophisticated storage cells for the user is available. Then these investors would see the real return on their investments as the world gradually shifts to 'green' energy.