Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 1:30:00 PM - by Nate Lew

Up until now, much of the discussion of solar energy has focused on homes and buildings. That may change in the future however, amid reports that automakers are working on cars that get some of their energy from solar technology.

Recent media reports, including one from Bloomberg, have noted that the 2010 Toyota Prius will feature solar panels on its moon roof that will generate enough power to cool the vehicle's cabin on a hot day. The Los Angeles Times noted that earlier rumors had predicted the vehicle's air conditioning system would be solar powered.

The new Prius model had primarily made news at the Detroit Auto Show over the announcement that it would also get up to 50 miles per gallon.

Solar power is not expected to become a prominent feature on automobiles in the foreseeable future, but its presence on such a popular model suggests that more autos in the future will incorporate the technology in various ways, while also giving consumers who care about the environment an additional opportunity to show their support.

Meanwhile, consumers don't have to wait around for the car of the future to take advantage of solar energy technology. Recent advances in the industry have made solar energy a more affordable and attractive option than ever, particularly when weighing the various tax incentives and other advantages it offers.