As the demand for energy continues to rise, it is becoming more important to integrate solar power and other forms of renewable energy into energy infrastructures across the globe. Conventional energy resources, such as oil and natural gas, are often located hundreds to thousands of miles away from where they will eventually be used and their use contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, aging power grid infrastructures can become overburdened as urban populations grow, straining the grid and leading to power outages. Distributed energy generation, such as solar power, can offset the growing demand for power while preserving the environment.