Solar power systems are a great way to reduce your energy costs dramatically, while adding a great deal of value to your property. Solar power has come a long way over the last decade. Solar panels are more efficient, incentives and rebates from the Federal, State, local governments and utilities have progressed dramatically, and there are several types of new financing products for solar power systems available.

These factors, along with a growing number of companies and professionals offering solar power installations and an increase in the number of solar panels being manufactured, this has lead to a drop in cost making solar power systems a viable alternative to conventional power sources and the standard utility grid. Coupled with the fact that solar power provides 100% clean and renewable energy which is great for the environment and battling climate change, there’s no reason not to investigate solar power as option for your home or business.

How Solar Power Systems Work

Solar power works by taking energy from the sun, and using solar panels, usually mounted on your roof, to convert that sun energy into usable electricity. An inverter, which is a component that comes with the solar power system, converts the electricity from your panels into AC (alternating current) electricity, which can then be used passed directly to the electric grid. In most areas, you’ll use a net meter in place of your standard electric meter. The net meter keeps track of the solar power that you produce and how much electricity you use. You get charged by your utility company only for the difference in your consumption versus production, and if you get a properly sized system, the difference in many cases is zero. In some cases you can earn credits for producing more than you consume. Solar power systems can actually make your meter spin backwards!

Getting a Solar Power System Installed

Getting a solar power system installed on your home or business is easier than ever before. You can get a good idea for the costs and rebates and incentives available for your project by checking the calculator below:

Chances are you’ve got a solar professional in your city that can help you, and SolarPower.org has partnered with Cooler Planet to help you identify the top solar power companies in your area and even give you a free phone consultation to discuss if solar power is right for you!

To speak with a representative and get your questions answered, just input your zip code and complete the form that follows at the top of this page, or call 866.485.2757.