DOE announced on October 12th that it has awarded $13 million for research in solar technologies and the development of more efficient solar panels. The funding is part of the Solar America Initiative, which aims to make solar power cost competitive with conventional electricity sources by 2015. Of the $13 million, $4.5 million will be awarded this fiscal year, which runs through September 2007. The projects receiving funding will focus on solar codes and standards; photovoltaic module rating systems; and strategic partnership opportunities for cities, states, and utilities.