Solar Economy - Solar Revolution      

It has been said that the entire planet's energy needs can be supplied by using only a small fraction of the Sun's energy.

  • It is a renewable resource
  • Greatly reduces or even eliminates your electric bill
  • reduces pollution
  • increases the value of your home

Solar Technologies today are very reliable, with a basic solar system lasting more than 20 years if maintained properly.

Solar electricity is also known as photovoltaics or PV and can be used to provide electricity, heat your home, your water, pool and spas. While it is most common to have the PV system mounted on a south-facing roof or wall, there are now some systems that look like roof shingles or can be built into glass skylights and walls.

While PV systems need sunlight for most of the day, climate is not really an issue. Most homes have enough roof space for PV system, but if not, there are other options such as integrating the system in a wall, on a porch, patio or garage.

Start with a Home Audit

Making your home as energy-efficient as possible with using energy-efficient appliances, insulation and such will then reduce the amount of energy you need your solar electric system to produce. This saves you money on the size solar electric system you will need and on your utility bill.

After you have upgraded your appliances, and windows, sealed leaks and added insulation among other things, you are ready to look into financing your solar system.

Leasing Your Solar System

Instead of buying a solar electric system upfront, you can lease a system, with the company monitoring and maintaining the system throughout the lease. While buying and installing solar panels can be very expensive, there are several companies that have come up with a way for you to have solar without any upfront costs:

Net-Metering

Some states offer Net-Metering where if your solar system is connected to the power grid, your utility company might credit you for any excess electricity you generate. Here are more resources for Net-Metering: NET-METERING PROGRAMS BY STATE also the NET-METERING RULES FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY.

Financing with a Mortgage

Another source of financing can come from Energy Efficient Mortgages where you can include some of the cost of the solar system when you refinance your home. Or in the case of buying a home, part of the cost of the solar system can be included in the loan amount.

Green Pricing

Green Pricing is where you can purchase, for a slightly higher price, clean energy from your utility company, energy that was produced from a non-polluting source (such as solar). This is called "Green Pricing."

Local Government Financing

There are also financing options from your local government as they put together programs to encourage homeowners to go solar in addition to tax rebates. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy or contact your state's energy office to find out more about rebates available in your area.