solar energy

After the nuclear catastrophe, the nation's investment in renewable energy soared. Many of those affected in Fukushima started production. But Japan is pushing fossil fuels, causing climate concerns.

Alabama has some of highest solar fees in the U.S. and critics say it's hurting solar customers. It's one of several states where utilities are proposing or raising fees for homes with rooftop solar.

The state is poised to become the first in the country to require the panels on new single-family houses, with a few exceptions. The mandate will kick in as of 2020.

The move has met with both praise and criticism from the solar energy industry. Manufacturers lobbied for the tariffs, while solar installers warned that American jobs will be lost.

President Trump is facing a Jan. 26 deadline to decide whether to impose tariffs on solar imports. While tariffs could help level the playing field for U.S. manfacturers, they could also raise prices.

Installing solar panels on your home could become more expensive, depending on how President Trump responds to a decision Friday by the U.S. International Trade Commission.

Governor Roy Cooper may face a tough choice with pending energy legislation. A bill on his desk could force him to boost the state's bright solar industry at the expense of wind power.

The company offers an "infinity" warranty on its tiles that integrate solar power into roof coverings. Tesla has published a web tool that can estimate costs and savings.