Why Go Solar?

• Most people install solar panels in their homes because, in the long run, the investment will help them save on monthly electricity bills. There are also federal incentives that translate into financial rebates around tax time. Aside from the savings though, utilizing solar panels to produce electricity is environmentally-friendly, as it uses a renewable source of energy with no waste products.
  
  

Where Can I Use Solar Energy in My Home?

• The technology can be used in a variety of small and large electronic devices. There are flashlights, lanterns, cellular phones, mp3 players, iPod chargers and GPS devices that run on solar cells. Depending on the size of the panels, solar energy can also power television sets, heaters, radios and other household appliances that require electricity.
  
  

How Much Should I Spend on a Solar Panel?

• The cost of solar panels normally depends on size. On average, expect to spend around $4 to $5 per watt. This means that if you plan on getting a 100-watt solar panel, be ready to spend around $500. While the investment is expensive, solar panels are quite durable and can last for as long as 25 years if maintained properly.
  
  

What Other Components Do I Need for a Solar Panel Module?

• When you talk about a complete solar power system, the solar panel is just one of the essential components. You also need inverters to convert DC power to AC. There are also the "rack and roof" attachments to strategically mount the solar panels. Connections, wiring and electric meters are also components, and they will need to be compliant with the National Electric Code.
  
  

How Much Power Can a Solar Panel System Produce?

• The type and number of photovoltaic (PV) modules dictates the system's power output. The energy requirements of your home, as well as the size of the roof and ground area, determine the system's size. Usually, a home system can produce around five to 10 kilowatts of electricity, which is about half the electricity requirements of an average household.