VESTAL, N.Y. -- Alternative energy has become a popular topic in recent years, but current solar panels are said to be rigid, heavy and very costly to produce. So Binghamton University's Center for Autonomous Solar Power has been working to create solar panels that are cheaper and smaller. Their efforts are being backed federally. They were recently awarded $4 million.

"It will reduce costs. It will reduce dependence on foreign oil. It will be much better when it comes to global warming. So this is a win, win, win. Best of all, it creates jobs here in the Southern Tier," Senator Charles Schumer said.

Eventually, the center hopes these new flexible solar panels will be used in everything from clothes to roof tops.