Citizen Staff Writer
ALAN FISCHER
afischer@tucsoncitizen.com
Solar technology is a hot topic in Tucson.
The public is invited Tuesday night to learn about and discuss new developments coming out of the Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy.
“It’s an exceptionally good time to get involved in solar energy,” said Ardeth Barnhart, co-director of AzRISE.
Federal and state tax credits and rebates from utilities can help offset the cost of residential and business solar systems, she said, and the federal economic stimulus bill may offer even more incentives to go solar.
Barnhart will discuss “Here Comes the Sun – Advances in Solar Energy Solutions” on Tuesday at a University of Arizona Flandrau Science Center science cafe event.
The free event starts at 6 p.m. at Cushing Street Bar & Restaurant, 198 W. Cushing St.
“We’re looking at the potential that Arizona has to develop all kinds of solar energy and some of the wonderful geological features that Arizona has so we can store energy to last past the peak of the day,” she said.
AzRISE is testing the next generations of solar devices here in order to improve efficiency and lower costs, she said.
The testing site is at Tucson Electric Power Co.’s Irvington Road Campus at East Irvington Road and South Alvernon Way, said Joe Salkowski, TEP spokesman.
“We’re looking at how they work in arid environments, and how panels will work in Arizona,” Barnhart said. “We’re increasing our understanding of costs of solar and how we can reduce those costs and make it more affordable.”
AzRISE is looking to add a demonstration component to its solar research and development efforts to determine costs, benefits and potential marketability of new technologies, she said.
The monthly Flandrau science cafes are casual forums where people meet to discuss a particular science topic with a UA scientist in a relaxed atmosphere.
IF YOU GO
What: University of Arizona Flandrau Science Center science cafe event
When: 6 p.m. Tuesday
Topic: “Here Comes the Sun – Advances in Solar Energy Solutions” by Ardeth Barnhart
Where: Cushing Street Bar & Restaurant, 198 W. Cushing St.
Cost: Free, with food and beverages available for purchase