The world has rapidly depleted its own natural resources in recent decades due to rapid population growth and development in formerly underdeveloped countries. It is estimated that by 2005, energy demand will increase by another 50%. (Eco-Info) In 2009, it was estimated that within a hundred years, all of Earth's resources, such as coal, oil and natural gas, would be completely exhausted. (Eco-Info) Along with the depletion of these resources, many companies that exploit oil, natural gas and coal are destroying the ecosystems and environments around them. People are slowly starting to realize that we need to change the way we use and source energy. The solution: find clean, efficient ways to deliver energy to the public. Over the past thirty years, more and more people have tried to find new ways to obtain energy. One of the most popular new energy sources is solar energy. Countries have invested millions of dollars to provide solar energy to their populations. According to GTM Research, a solar-powered device is installed every four minutes worldwide. (Stephen Lacey) Many world powers are turning to solar energy, such as China, Japan, the United States and many more. Australia has just launched its own solar energy movement. Solar energy is beneficial to the country in Australia due to its optimal weather conditions throughout the year and the growing popularity of using alternative energy sources. In order to keep the solar energy movement strong in Australia, they should model the United States' efforts in solar energy. Solar energy is energy harvested from solar radiation. The Sun is so powerful that it provides the Earth with so much energy...... middle of paper ......S. (Solar Energy Industries Association). Even though the movement toward solar power is growing, out of all 9.23 million megawatts, it produces only 0.23 percent of the United States' total electricity. (Energy.gov) There are more than 550 large solar projects in the United States. Now, under the Obama administration, 16 additional projects have been approved that will provide 6,000 megawatts of electricity. (SEIA) However, the concentration of the largest and most powerful plants is in the southwest. (SEIA) In fact, the oldest solar power plant, the SEGS thermal power plant, resides in California and generates approximately 354 megawatts of electricity. (SEIA)The popularity of solar energy is rapidly increasing in Australia and the United States. A poll in March found that 76% of Americans thought the country should start placing more emphasis on solar energy production. (Carole Feldman)