Manufacturers say they are close to perfecting a new, more efficient solar panel that could help the United States reclaim ground it lost.

The state is considering extending the life of its last nuclear power plant, Diablo Canyon, and allowing construction of new reactors to help meet its clean energy goals.

Legislatures in nearly a dozen states have voted to legalize use of the technology, which can help homeowners reduce their rising electricity costs.

© Poppy Lynch for The New York Times