Welcome to California Solar Center!

Californiasolarcenter.org is designed to be a prime source of information on solar energy activity in California. Californiasolarcenter.org was created and is currently managed by The Rahus Institute, a 501c3 non-profit organization, working to promote greater use of renewable energy through education, research, program and policy development. Californiasolarcenter exists only on the internet. There is no physical place as yet, though that may be something for the future.

In the early stages of 2001, we've seen an incredible surge in interest about solar energy. The California Energy Crisis has put energy on the mind of everyone. Solar energy can be a large part of a sustainable energy future for the state of California, and can provide a positive example for the rest of the nation. To achieve this, we must first understand what is 'solar energy' - the technology and the design practices - and what each is capable of doing. John Perlin has provided a history section reviewing 2500 years of solar technology and architecture - providing a historical perspective from which we can move forward toward developing a sustainable society based on solar and other renewable energy resources. The current crisis can be a powerful motivator to adopt positive change.

Our goal, through californiasolarcenter.org, is to provide timely and accurate information to help develop the market for solar energy technology and design practices in California and to assist consumers, businesses, and policy makers move toward a clean energy future without compromising the environment or the economy.

I invite you to check back frequently for updates as we add new features to the site in the coming months. Your feedback can help guide the content and development of the site.

Looking Forward,

Tor Allen
Webmaster, Californiasolarcenter.org
[President of The Rahus Institute]

May 20, 2001