Solar panels

If you’re a homeowner with good sun access, you can be a part of the clean energy transition while increasing your own self-reliance.

Solar panels, sometimes called PV or photovoltaic panels, are sheets of cells that collect solar energy when they are hit with sunlight. These cells transform heat energy from the sun into electricity, which is directly connected to your electric panel and can be used to power your home.

Most homes with solar panels are also connected to the electric grid to ensure the lights don’t go out at night or when the sun isn’t shining. If your solar panels produce more electricity than you need, the excess power can flow back onto the grid for a credit to your bill, which is called net energy metering.

If your home is already all-electric, solar panels are a great way to lower your electric bills. Of course, there is an upfront cost for the purchase of panels and their installation, but that cost is partially offset by a 30% federal tax credit, and in some locations, there are additional state and local incentives. And after that, you are creating power from the sun at a near-zero cost.