1. Make Your Own Power
The average home in the United states uses 725 kWhs of energy each month. The average cost of that power is currently $0.11 per kWh. That’s $28,971 that you will pay over the next 30 years IF the electric company doesn’t raise your rates. Solar Power users pay less money up front and own their power.

1. Solar Panels

The solar panels, also called modules, that are most popular on homes in the United States are usually 3’ 6” by 5’ 6” and 1” thick. These panels are made with silicon, which is a basically sand that has been processed. Once that silicon is processed into a solar cell, it releases electrons, positive and negative, when exposed to sunlight. These electrons, or energy, flow through the cables (one negative, one positive) coming out of the back of the solar panel towards the inverter. Most installers use 220-230 watt solar panels.

1. The Sun Shines Everywhere.
The sun’s rays are more plentiful in the southern states like Florida, and the summer days are longer in northern states. Most solar installers will factor the number of daylight hours plus the affect of weather to determine how much energy you will make in a year. In Florida, a quality solar panel and inverter will produce 325kWh per panel per year.

Poly Crystalline and Mono Crystalline: Most popular for residential and small commercial systems for the amount of energy they produce over a year compared to their cost and cost of installation. These panels are best in normal sunlight but have been making moderate gains in how much energy they collect in low light conditions.

Brands: REC, Sharp, Kyocera, Schott, Suntech, Yingli

1. Reduce Your Usage

A responsible solar installer will recommend energy saving techniques before designing a system to make up 100% of your electric usage. These tips can cut 10-40% from your electric bill. These tips range from little expense such as light bulbs and green power strips to larger ticket items such as higher efficiency heating and cooling systems.

How many people truly like paying their electric bill? Sure electric company executives have their bills to pay too--like gas for a Leer jet. What frustrates so many homeowners is that rates, despite a recent short-term dip, have continued to increase dramatically over the past 20 years. If the cost of power continues to rise as it has since 1990, your current $150 electric bill will be over $350 in another 10 years. What if your bill is already $350? Your bill will be over $900 a month by 2022. Worried yet? Don't be.