How to choose Solar Electric Panels

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By Knowpher
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choose Solar Electric Panels

So you are interested in buying solar electric panels.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

What are my options? There are three types of Solar Electric Panels that generally exist in the market today: Monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and amorphous. What type you get primarily depends on your budget and how much room for panels you have.
Step 2

Monocrystalline: These are the most efficient at converting sunlight to electricity. Of course these solar panels are also the most expensive. However, since they are more efficient you need less of them and if you have limited space these may be a good option.
Step 3

Polycrystalline: These are slightly less efficient and also slightly less expensive than monocrystalline solar panels but the differences are often very slight.
Step 4

Amorphous: These solar panels are often a lot less expensive but they also take up the most room. If you've got a lot of room to spare these may be a good option.
Step 5

How much is this going to cost? A good question. This of course depends on how many watts of electricity you are trying to produce. If you're average you are probably looking at around $7k to $15k with wide room for variation depending on your particular needs and the climate in your area.
Step 6

"Wow that's expensive!" Yes it is but don't despair. The federal and many state governments offer very significant tax credits/rebates/grants to help pay for the cost. It is not uncommon to be able to receive 50 to 75% of the cost of the solar panels back from the government in one form or another. Spend some time researching it, but most of all contact a dealer. They will undoubtedly know all about the perks available in your area. If not, take that as a warning sign and contact a different solar panel dealer!