Photovoltaics (solar cells or solar panels) are devices that convert light into electricity with the use of semi-conductors, which are most commonly made out of silicon crystal. The panel is made up of layers of different materials. As sunlight hits the solar panel, photons travel across a junction from a negative to positive region and create an electric charge. The systems themselves are quiet, unobtrustive and can come in practically any size to meet your home's specific needs.

To generate electricity for homes and buildings two different types of solar electric systems can be used: A Grid-Tied system is connected to your utility’s transmission lines so that you can use power from the grid as well as produce your own. The other type of solar electric system is called a Stand-Alone system, which uses batteries to store electricity for use anytime.

• Grid-Tied Solar Power - In this type of setup an inverter in a building converts Direct Current (DC) Electricity into Alternating Current (AC) Electricity so that it can be used by the building it is connected to and other consumers on the power grid. When the demand for power in the building is low, excess photovoltaic power flows to the grid and the utility’s meter turns backwards, essentially selling electricity back to the utility. One disadvantage to this type of system is that if utility power goes out you cannot use solar power for backup. On the other hand, the only maintenance with a grid-tied system is adjustment of panels due to the changing angle of the sun during different seasons, and even this is optional.

• Stand-Alone Solar Power - This kind of system uses batteries to store electricity produced by photovoltaic cells. There is no connection to the utility power grid so a building can operate completely independently. A stand-alone system is more complicated and expensive, as well as requiring a little more maintenance, like refilling water in your batteries every so often.

1. Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency - Renewable energy systems are best-suited for energy efficient homes, and you will get the most out of your investment.  A Home Energy Audit will tell you how much energy you use and how you can improve the efficiency of your home. Here are some low hanging fruit that you can do to improve your home's energy efficiency.

2. Do Your Homework - Download and read the A Consumer's Guide to Solar Electricity for the Home (U.S. DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy).

3. Determine your energy use - Determine how much electricity you use, on average, over the course of a year. You can do this by looking at your power bills or by contacting your power companies and requesting a summary of your usage history. Once you know your average energy consumption, determine how much of your demand you would like to offset.   

4. Contact Installers - It is important to contact a few installers in your area to determine if solar is right for your home. This will help you get a better idea of how much it would cost, how large a system you would need and if it would make sense for your home. Here is a list of solar installers in Utah.

5. Determine How Big a Solar Energy System You Need - The size of solar system you need depends on your energy use, how much sunshine is available, the space available, and how much you're willing to invest. Your solar installer will be able to give you a good estimate of what is possible and recommend a good option for your home. You can also use a solar power calculator, like  the National Renewable Energy Lab's PVWatts Calculator to get a general estimate of your system size and costs (actual costs should be determined by speaking with an installer).

6. Work with your HOA - Some Home Owners' Associations may try to prohibit you from installing rooftop solar, but there are laws in place to protect your rights to install solar and maintain solar access. Read more here.

7. Contact Electric Utility Company - Contact your local utility company about the availability of net metering (connecting your system to the existing power grid) and/or rebate programs. You will likely need to submit an application, and it is best to get approval before the project is completed.  Some utility net metering information is available on-line: 

8. Select An Installer - Once you have determined that wind is right for you, you are ready to select an installer – get a few bids for comparison, just as you would a plumber or electrician. Be sure to ask for references, proof of insurance and license number. Here is a list of solar installers. Here are some questions you may want to ask your solar energy system installer to ensure you are hiring skilled professionals.

• How many years have they been in business?
• How many systems have they installed?
• What certifications do they hold? Ask for a copy.
• Ask for proof of insurance.
• Ask for references.

10. Determine Financing -  The up-front cost of installing rooftop solar may be cost prohibitive for some, but there are several financing options available. Read here for more. 

11. Apply For Incentives, as appropriate:

•  Available incentives for Rooftop Solar in Utah

12. Check the SCPW Challenge for additional resources.

13. Permitting information can be found here.