iknowartworks/Shutterstock Though the technology to capture photovoltaic (PV) power and turn it into electricity was invented back in the 1950s, solar panels have yet to take over much more than calculators. It takes a lot of space to power more complicated technology, meaning solar panels can't produce as much as we need to fit our increasing electricity needs. However, a recent study published in Nature Sustainability links coal plants to reduced performance from solar panels, showing that solar energy could be more efficient if it wasn't for continued use of fossil fuels. One reason why coal plants are making solar…