Jimmy Carter at a Solar Panel Dedication Ceremony

This photograph of President Jimmy Carter at a ceremony for the dedication of the solar panels he had installed on the roof of the West Wing was taken by Bill Fitz-Patrick on June 20, 1979. Known in part for his efforts to protect and improve the environment, Carter hoped that the 32 thermal solar collectors used to heat water for the White House staff mess would contribute to a nationwide effort to seek alternative energy sources. Ronald Reagan removed the panels in 1986, but George W. Bush and then Barack Obama reinstalled solar technology at the executive mansion.