How to Decide If Solar Energy Is Right for the Home

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Solar energy is the cleanest, most abundant form of energy known. Collecting and storing the power that solar energy produces is the most expensive portion of the home power equation. Use the following guidelines to help you decide if solar energy is right for your home.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Determine the cost involved in installing a solar panel array and the energy collection hardware. This is the most costly area of home solar energy and can be cost prohibitive. Many electric municipalities offer some financial compensation to consumers who use solar energy, and in some cases, pay the user money back for unused electricity.

Step2

Contact the local electric companies to determine whether they offer any solar energy incentives. Many electric companies help defer or reduce the cost of a solar energy system for the home.

Step3

Find an area of the home's exterior to serve as the location for the solar panel array. This area should receive most of the daily sunshine and be large enough to expand the array over time.

Step4

Consider replacing many common household appliances and electric items that consume large amounts of power. Solar power powers an energy efficient structure well yet does poorly if the user wastes electricity.

Step5

Set aside an area in the home for solar energy collection. Decide on the area before the system is installed. If a battery array will be utilized, a larger space is required.

Tips & Warnings

Consult with local electricians to get their ideas on the subject. Some may offer discounts and incentives to install a system for the home.
Contact local neighborhood association leaders before installing any arrays or systems. Some local communities consider solar energy arrays unsightly and ban them from the community.
Use a professional and reputable installer to put in a solar energy system.