Is Solar Power Right for You?

Here’s the scoop on figuring out how much solar panels will cost, how much you can save, and what to know before you install a photovoltaic system for your home.

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Solar-electric panels on a south-facing roof in Brooklyn, Mass.
Solar-electric panels on a south-facing roof in Brooklyn, Mass.
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This roof-mounted solar-electric system is located on a garage in Block Island, R.I.
This roof-mounted solar-electric system is located on a garage in Block Island, R.I.
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Solar-electric panels for a home in New Hampshire. The roof of this house was shaded by large pines, so a freestanding system was installed instead.
Solar-electric panels for a home in New Hampshire. The roof of this house was shaded by large pines, so a freestanding system was installed instead.
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An off-grid solar-powered home in Golden, Colo.
An off-grid solar-powered home in Golden, Colo.
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A solar-electric system is integrated into the metal standing-seam roof of this house in New Smyrna Beach, Fla.
A solar-electric system is integrated into the metal standing-seam roof of this house in New Smyrna Beach, Fla.
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Photovoltaics integrated into a solar awning over a back porch in California.
Photovoltaics integrated into a solar awning over a back porch in California.

Have you ever wondered whether a solar-electric system is right for your home? There are a lot of good reasons to consider solar power. It’s a great choice for the environment, because with photovoltaic (solar-electric) panels you can get your electricity from clean, renewable solar energy, rather than polluting fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas and oil. In most circumstances, installing solar panels can also save you a lot of money.

To figure out whether solar-electric panels make sense for you, start by considering these questions:

1. Do you have a sunny, south-facing space to mount solar panels? Chances are you do, because there are a lot of options (check out the Image Gallery for examples).

2. How much will it cost for a solar-electric system that meets your needs?

3. Will solar power save you money in the long-term?

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