U.S. President Biden announced on Earth Day that he would allocate US$7 billion (approximately S$9.5 billion) to install solar panels on residential roofs, kicking off a week-long Earth Day event aimed at publicizing the U.S. government's efforts to combat climate change.

The main materials for solar energy utilization include:

Silicon: Silicon is the main material of solar panels and is used to make photovoltaic cells. Silicon is a semiconductor material that converts sunlight into electricity.

Glass: Solar panels are often covered with a clear layer of glass that protects and provides support for the photovoltaic cells.

Metal: Metallic materials are used to make brackets and frames for solar panels to ensure the stability and durability of the panels.

Wires: Wires are used to carry the electricity produced by solar panels to the grid or battery storage system.

Reflectors: In some solar power systems, reflectors are used to focus sunlight and improve the efficiency of photovoltaic cells.

Encapsulating materials: Solar panels require encapsulating materials to protect the battery chips and circuits inside the panels from being affected by the external environment.

In addition to the above materials, solar power generation systems may also use other materials, such as polymers, aluminum alloys, etc., to improve the efficiency and stability of the system.

The solar panel installation project will create 200,000 jobs and save participating households approximately $400 per year.