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Solar energy is a bright spot in the dismal economy, according to the Solar Energies Industries Association. The U.S. solar energy industry market grew 67 percent, from $3.6 billion in 2009 to $6.0 billion in 2010, according to the association's annual review. It was the fastest growing energy sector in the U.S. economy, contrasting overall U.S. GDP growth of less than 3 percent.

This from the report: In total, 878 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) capacity and 78 MW of concentrating solar power (CSP) were installed in the U.S. in 2010 -- enough to power roughly 200,000 homes. In addition, more than 65,000 homes and businesses added solar water heating (SWH) or solar pool heating (SPH) systems.

The U.S. PV market made the most significant strides in 2010, more than doubling installation totals from 2009 according to the latest U.S. Solar Market InsightTM report. This expansion was driven by the Federal section 1603 Treasury program, completion of significant utility-scale projects, expansion of new state markets and declining technology costs.

The section 1603 Treasury program helped fourth-quarter installations surge to a record 359 MW and was critical in allowing the solar industry to employ more than 93,000 Americans in 2010. Originally set to expire at the end of 2010, the 1603 Treasury program was ultimately extended through 2011.