OTTAWA, Nov 21, 2007 -- UPI

The Canadian government is investing in solar energy, awarding $1.1 million for projects promoting photovoltaic and solar thermal power technologies.

Photovoltaic technology converts sunlight into electricity. Solar thermal technology uses the sun's energy to heat air for space heating.

The four projects, geared to residential and commercial use, are in Ontario and Quebec, the Canadian natural resources department said in a news release.

"These hybrid demonstration projects will turn the exteriors and roofs of homes and businesses into clean-energy systems," said Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn. "This initiative is another example that our government is getting the job done to protect the health of Canadians and our environment."

Through its ecoENERGY Renewable program, the Canadian government has invested more than $1.5 billion in two initiatives to make clean, low-impact renewable energy less expensive and more available to Canadians, the department said.

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