Two California desert prisons are corralling more than just prisoners. They're harnessing solar energy to power everything from washing machines to lethal high-voltage perimeter fences.

The state is among those with mandates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the prison solar system efforts underscore its position as a national leader in renewable energy efforts.

Toyota just announced that the next-generation Prius will have an optional solar panel that powers an electric fan. The fan activates to cool the cabin when the car is parked and the interior temperature rises.