A small experimental apple orchard at Cornell's Hudson Valley Research Laboratory may soon be topped by solar panels, which would not only track the sun to capture energy, but provide a warm canopy on cooler spring days and shade the trees from excessive heat.

These breakthroughs will make solar energy more accessible to homeowners, especially for those who are on the fence. A Pew Research study found that nearly four in 10 Americans "have given serious thought to installing solar panels for their home within the past 12 months; [whereas] 8% say they already have installed solar panels."

Note: The BLUETTI deal is over, but here are some other generator and power station deals you should absolutely check out. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 — Now $198 (was $259) Jackery Solar Generator 1000,

When you purchase the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 on Amazon (discounted to $1,000), you’ll save $650. At full price, this model sells for $1,650. Whether you’re going on a long weekend camping trip or you’re looking for a safe and reliable power backup for if and when your electrical goes down,