Homeowners
Going Solar

Going Solar

More and more homeowners are going solar these days — and with good reason. If you're considering moving to renewable energy, check out our solar resources for guidance on cost, process, brands and the pros and cons to going solar.

Getting Started

Find a solar company

Compare solar panels

Explore financing options

The basics

Going Solar 101

How to save energy at home

6 ways to lower your electric bill

Solar energy vs. fossil fuels

Staying power vs. convenience

How do solar panels work?

5 steps to solar energy

How much do solar panels cost?

The average is upwards of $10,000 for a U.S. home

Solar energy pros and cons

Are the cost-benefits worth it?

How solar tax credits work

Deduct 30% of the cost of installation

Best of Solar Energy

Find the right companies based on your needs

Best Solar Companies of 2023

6 companies9/15/2023

Best solar panels in 2023

9/7/2023

Find the best portable solar panels

4/28/2023

Best solar batteries

9/8/2023

Best Solar Financing Companies

1/6/2023

Our Latest Resources

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Best Solar Companies of 2023

Want to going solar? Compare our top 6 solar company picks, including SunPower, Sunlux and Elevation.

Kathryn Parkman9/21/2023

Best solar batteries

Need batteries for solar storage? Compare top solar batteries on capacity, efficiency and cost. Top picks include Vivint, Sunrun and Sunlux.

Chauncey Crail9/8/2023

How much do solar panels cost in 2023?

The average cost to install a home solar system is $23,879 before incentives. Learn about financing, payback periods, potential savings and more.

Kathryn Parkman9/8/2023

Virginia solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

Thinking about going solar in Virginia? Learn about available financial incentives, net metering programs and overall average costs to install panels

Kathryn Parkman9/7/2023

Cost of solar panels in Virginia

The average solar panel system costs $21,175 in Virginia. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, and available incentives.

Alina Bradford9/7/2023

Best solar shed lights

Find and compare the best solar shed lights. We found our top picks from brands like HMCITY, AmeriTop, HULPPRE, Aqonsie and Flyhoom.

Taylor Sansano9/7/2023

Best Solar Financing Companies

Worried about how you’ll pay for going solar? Read about the best solar financing companies and how to choose which is right for you.

Brian Church9/7/2023

Best solar panels for RVs

Read about and compare the best solar panels for RVs. Our picks include panels from Renogy, ACOPower, EF EcoFlow, SunPower and Topsolar.

Taylor Sansano9/7/2023

Best solar-powered heaters

Learn how solar-powered heaters work and if they’re worth it for your needs. Our top picks are from GRECELL, EF ECOFLOW, Renogy and SunQuest.

Taylor Sansano9/7/2023

Best solar phone chargers

Need to charge your phone while you’re traveling or off the grid? Learn more about solar phone chargers and find one that works for you.

Taylor Sansano9/7/2023

Best cheap solar panels

Trying to go solar on a budget? Check out our top picks for this year’s best cheap solar panel brands, including Maxeon, Panasonic and LONGi.

Alina Bradford9/7/2023

Best solar monitoring systems

Looking for the best solar monitoring systems? See our top picks for integrated and stand-alone monitors and learn how they can help you.

Alina Bradford9/7/2023

Best solar panels in 2023

Interested in going solar? Check out our top picks for this year’s best solar panel brands, including Maxeon, Panasonic, Q Cells and LONGi Solar.

Cassidy McCants9/7/2023

Kentucky solar incentives and tax credits

Thinking about going solar in Kentucky? Learn about financial incentives, net metering programs, overall average costs to install panels and more.

Kathryn Parkman9/7/2023

Cost of solar panels in Kentucky

The average solar panel system costs $18,018 in Kentucky. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman9/7/2023

Do solar panels save money?

The math says solar panels are worth it, but we took a look at how much people actually saved by going solar to help with your decision.

Brian Church9/7/2023

How does a solar pool heater work?

Solar pool heaters are a great way to heat your outdoor swimming pool and save money on energy. Learn how to get started in this step-by-step guide.

David Stillwell9/6/2023

What is passive solar heating?

Passive solar heating systems have been around for centuries, since civilizations adapted the design of dwellings to harness the warmth of the sun.

Brian Church9/6/2023

Texas solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

Thinking about going solar in Texas? Learn about available financial incentives, net metering programs and overall average costs to install panels.

Kathryn Parkman9/1/2023

Cost of solar panels in Texas

The average solar panel system costs $21,654 in Texas. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman9/1/2023

How much do solar batteries cost?

Thinking about adding a battery to your solar panel system? Learn what you can expect to pay and find out if the benefits outweigh the cost.

Brian Church9/1/2023

How much does a Tesla Solar Roof cost?

Researching the Tesla Solar Roof? Find out how much they cost, how you can get an estimate for your home and whether they’re worth it.

Brian Church8/28/2023

New Jersey solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

Thinking about going solar in New Jersey? Learn about available financial incentives, net metering programs, overall costs to install panels and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/15/2023

Are solar shingles worth it: a guide

Thinking about installing solar shingles on your home? Learn whether they’re worth it and how you can tell if a solar roof is right for you.

Brian Church8/15/2023

Cost of solar panels in Oregon

The average solar panel system costs $17,290 in Oregon. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/11/2023

Oregon solar incentives, tax credits & rebates

Thinking about going solar in Oregon? Learn about financial incentives, net metering programs, overall average costs to install panels and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/11/2023

What is solar panel ROI?

Wondering how much your solar panels will net you long term? Learn how to calculate your solar panel ROI and see what affects your returns here.

Kiah Treece8/10/2023

Cost of solar panels in New Jersey

The average solar panel system costs $13,573 in New Jersey. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/10/2023

60- vs. 72-cell solar panels

Trying to decide between 60- and 72-cell solar panels? Learn the differences, the pros and cons, and whether they matter with ConsumerAffairs.

Brian Church8/10/2023

Cost of solar panels in Arizona

The average solar panel system costs $21,011 in Arizona. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/9/2023

Arizona solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

Thinking about going solar in Arizona? Learn about financial incentives, net metering programs, overall average costs to install panels and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/9/2023

Cost of solar panels in Florida

The average solar panel system costs $20,367 in Florida. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/9/2023

Vermont solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

Thinking about going solar in Vermont? Learn about financial incentives, net metering programs, overall average costs to install panels and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/9/2023

Florida solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

The federal tax credit is the biggest factor in reducing solar costs in Florida. State tax breaks also make it easier to install solar panels.

Kathryn Parkman8/9/2023

Cost of solar panels in Vermont

The average solar panel system costs $12,054 in Vermont. Learn about payback periods, financing options, potential savings, incentives and more.

Kathryn Parkman8/9/2023

Should you replace your roof before going solar?

Thinking about going solar? Learn the best time to install solar panels on your roof and whether you should replace your roof first before buying.

Brian Church8/4/2023

What are peak sun hours?

Heard about peak sunlight hours but not sure exactly what they are? We’ll explain the basics and how they can help you find the right system.

Brian Church8/4/2023

Can hail damage solar panels?

Worried about hail hurting your solar panels? You probably don’t need to be, and we’ll explain why. We’ll also tell you what to do if it does happen.

Brian Church8/2/2023

How solar-powered air conditioning works

Solar-powered air conditioning uses electricity generated from sunlight to run cooling and HVAC units. Learn more about how it works.

Brian Church8/2/2023

How to save energy at home

Want to consume less energy and lower your energy bills? Try small changes like reducing phantom power and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.

Amanda Futrell8/2/2023

Solar panel maintenance guide

Wondering how much maintenance solar panels need? Find out how to keep your solar panels in good shape and what to do if they’re damaged.

Alina Bradford7/25/2023

What is a solar home?

A solar home gets most of its energy from solar tech. Read about the costs of going solar, the pros and cons of a solar home and more.

Amanda Futrell7/18/2023

How does the federal solar tax credit work?

The tax credit helps offset the cost of residential solar power systems with a 30% credit until 2032. A reduced credit is available in 2033 and 2034.

Zachary Shahan7/13/2023

Solar panel installation guide

Check out these six easy steps to solar panel installation — plus, info on permits, financing and other frequently asked questions.

Brian Church7/13/2023

What is a solar generator?

From components to applications, explore the eco-friendliness of solar generators and how they harness the sun's rays to provide on-demand power.

Cepeda Cheeks7/13/2023

How do solar water heaters work?

Solar water heaters aren’t as complicated to set up as you might think. Here’s how to know if a solar hot water system is right for you.

Taylor Sansano7/13/2023

Solar energy pros and cons

What are the pros and cons of solar energy? Benefits include a lower electric bill and energy independence; disadvantages include installation costs.

Kathryn Parkman7/12/2023

How long do solar panels last?

Wondering about the life span of solar panels? Read about how long they typically last, what affects their efficiency and how to make them last.

Chauncey Crail7/12/2023

What are the benefits of solar panels?

Wondering what the upside to solar panels is? Learn about their multiple benefits with ConsumerAffairs to see if they’re right for your property.

Chauncey Crail7/12/2023

What are grid-tied solar systems?

Thinking about going solar? Learn whether a grid-tied solar panel system is right for you and how they compare to off-grid and hybrid alternatives.

Chauncey Crail7/12/2023

DIY solar panels: pros, cons and installation guide

Considering installing your own solar panels? Learn the pros and cons of DIY installation to decide whether it’s the right option for you.

Chauncey Crail7/12/2023

Do solar panels work on cloudy days?

Solar panels do harness the sun’s energy even on cloudy days — but at a reduced rate. Read more about panel performance in cloudy conditions.

Rachel Schrader7/12/2023

What is a lead-acid solar battery?

Wondering if a lead-acid battery is right for your home solar system? Learn what they are, how they work and whether one is right for you.

Vincent Landino7/12/2023

Commercial solar panels

Interested in converting your business to run off of solar energy? Learn about commercial solar installations and how they can help your organization.

Brian Church7/12/2023

How long do solar batteries last?

Considering getting a solar battery? Before you buy, it’s worth knowing how long your battery will last and what you can do to extend its life.

Brian Church7/11/2023

How a solar-powered home works with generator backup

Wondering whether solar panels can get you through a blackout? Learn what it takes and find out how they interact with a backup generator.

Brian Church7/11/2023

Thin-film solar panels: what you need to know

Interested in thin-film solar panels? Learn about the different types and get their pros and cons so you can decide whether they’re right for you.

Brian Church7/11/2023

What is a solar tube?

Find out what a solar tube is, how it works and why it could be the perfect energy-efficient solution for bringing natural light into your home.

Vincent Landino7/11/2023

What is an off-grid solar system?

Thinking about going solar? Learn what it means to go fully off the power grid and find out if it’s right for you with ConsumerAffairs.

Chauncey Crail7/11/2023

What are tier 1 solar panels?

Wondering what it means for a solar panel to be classified as “Tier 1?” We’ll explain the criteria involved and whether they’re worth it long-term.

Brian Church7/11/2023

What is a solar panel tracker?

Learn about the different type of solar panel trackers, how they work and whether they're a viable option for residential solar energy systems.

Alina Bradford7/11/2023

What is a solar array?

Trying to figure out what a solar array is? We cover all the basics, including what they are, how they work and where to put one for maximum effect.

Vincent Landino7/11/2023

What is the best angle for solar panels?

Unsure of how to angle your solar panels? Learn a simple trick for calculating the right tilt and what other factors you need to watch out for.

Vincent Landino7/11/2023

What is the output of a solar panel?

Wondering what the output of a solar panel is? We’ll break down that question and its answer to help you understand solar panels before you buy.

Brian Church7/11/2023

What is solar thermal energy?

Discover solar thermal energy, a process harnessing sunlight to generate heat for electricity and home heating. Learn about systems and benefits.

Alina Bradford7/11/2023

What are solar roadways?

Explore the innovative idea of solar roadways, their structure and the pros and cons of this dual-purpose infrastructure for transportation and power.

Alina Bradford7/11/2023

What is solar energy?

Solar energy is power harnessed from the sun, typically by ground- or roof-mounted solar panels. Read more about solar energy and how it works.

Marissa Wilson7/11/2023

Types of solar grid systems

Thinking about going solar? Learn about the three main types of solar grid systems so you can decide which is right for your home.

Chauncey Crail7/11/2023

What are black solar panels?

Wondering what the differences between black solar panels and blue solar panels are? We’ll break things down so you can decide which is right for you.

Vincent Landino7/11/2023

kW vs. kWh

The difference between “kilowatt” and “kilowatt-hour” may be confusing when you first look into solar energy options. Learn how to keep them straight.

Alina Bradford7/11/2023

What are solar panels made of?

Discover the composition of solar panels, primarily made of silicon, and learn about different types and how they convert sunlight into usable energy.

Alina Bradford7/11/2023

Solar panel efficiency

We looked into how efficient solar panels are at converting energy from the sun into electricity — check out the results and more.

Brian Church7/8/2023

How many kWh does a solar panel produce?

Want to learn how much power a solar panel produces? We’ll break down what you need to know and how to calculate your solar panel’s energy production.

Brian Church7/6/2023

What is a solar tree?

A solar tree is a ground-mounted solar array that looks like a metal tree, with solar panels for branches. It’s an alternative to rooftop panels.

ConsumerAffairs Research Team 7/6/2023

250-watt solar panels: what to know

250-watt solar panels are great for DIY solar installations, but they may be a little small if you want to run your entire home off solar energy.

Brian Church7/6/2023

500-watt solar panels: what to know

A 500-watt solar panel has its uses, but you’ll likely be better served with something smaller. Learn more about 500-watt solar panels here.

Brian Church7/6/2023

What is community solar?

A community solar power collective helps you to lower your energy costs and contribute to the environment without installing solar panels.

David Stillwell7/6/2023

How do solar panels work?

Researching solar panels so you can go solar? Read about how solar panels are made, how they produce electricity, if the panels save money and more.

Alina Bradford7/6/2023

Solar lease vs. solar PPA

Looking for help getting a home solar system? Learn more about the differences between a solar lease and a PPA to find out which is best for you.

Brian Church7/6/2023

What is a solar charge controller?

Want to keep your solar battery from overcharging? Read more about how solar charge controllers work and whether they are worth it.

Brian Church7/6/2023

Are solar panels worth it?

Whether solar panels are worth it for you depends on three factors: amount of sunshine, cost of your solar array and the cost of energy in your area.

ConsumerAffairs Research Team 7/6/2023

How do solar loans work?

A solar loan goes toward the purchase and installation of solar panels. Learn more about solar loans and if they’re right for you.

Kiah Treece7/6/2023

Passive solar home design

A solar home is really any home that makes use of energy from the sun. Some use solar panels, but others take things a step further.

Taylor Sansano7/6/2023

400-watt solar panels: what to know

400-watt solar panels are a great choice for residential solar panel systems. Learn more about how 400-watt solar panels work here.

Brian Church7/5/2023

Most efficient solar panels

Switching to solar power? Read about our top picks for the most efficient solar panels this year, including SunPower, LONGi and Qcells.

Chauncey Crail7/5/2023

Monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline solar panels

The main difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels is efficiency — monocrystalline are more efficient. Read more about both.

Brian Church7/5/2023

What are bifacial solar panels?

Double-sided, bifacial solar panels produce electricity from both direct sunlight and reflected light. Learn more about how they work.

Brian Church7/5/2023

300-watt solar panels: what to know

A 300-watt solar panel can be a good choice for some people, but it may be a little small for a residential installation. Learn more here.

Brian Church7/5/2023

Nuclear energy pros and cons

Nuclear energy has a relatively small carbon footprint, but it’s not perfect. Read more about the pros and cons of this energy solution.

Alina Bradford7/5/2023

How many solar panels do I need for my house?

To estimate how many solar panels you need to power your whole house, consider your home’s size, energy usage, location and roof condition.

Taylor Sansano7/5/2023

California solar incentives

More people are turning to solar power, and California's solar incentives can help residents offset the costs of installing a home solar power system.

Kiah Treece7/5/2023

What is net metering?

Net metering is an electronic billing tool that credits solar energy system owners for energy returned to the grid. Read more to see how it works.

ConsumerAffairs Research Team 7/5/2023

What are ground-mounted solar panels?

Ground-mounted solar panels provide some advantages over roof-mounted panels. Read more to find out which solution is right for you.

Justin Martino7/5/2023

200-watt solar panels: what to know

A 200 W solar panel is relatively small, but it can still have a number of uses. Read more about 200 W solar panels and if they are right for you

Brian Church7/4/2023

Types of solar panels

There are three types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. Each has its own benefits. Read about which might work for you.

Alina Bradford7/4/2023

Solar shingles vs. solar panels

If you’re planning to install a rooftop solar system, you have the choice between solar panels and solar shingles. But which option is right for you?

David Stillwell7/4/2023

Solar PPAs: what to know

Solar power purchase agreements, or PPAs, can help make solar panels more affordable. Read more about solar PPAs and how they work.

Chauncey Crail7/4/2023

Solar panel cars

Solar panel cars are vehicles powered by solar energy. Learn more about how solar panel cars work, how to get one and if they’re worth it.

Chauncey Crail7/3/2023

U.S. air quality trends

Several U.S. metros saw large increases in air quality over the last decade. Rome, Georgia, and two Indiana metros had the biggest positive changes.

Cassidy McCants6/28/2023

Solar panel cleaning

How often you clean your solar panels depends a lot on the climate where you live, but most experts say annually is sufficient. Here’s how it’s done.

David Stillwell6/28/2023

Solar energy vs. fossil fuels

Fossil fuels are convenient — for now. Compare solar energy and fossil fuel costs, efficiency, availability and more. Plus, learn about the benefits.

Kathryn Parkman6/26/2023

Flexible solar panel guide

Flexible solar panels can bend and curve, so they offer installation options where traditional panels don’t work — but there are drawbacks.

Sally Jones6/26/2023

What are solar panels?

Solar panels produce energy from the sun, which then converts to electricity. Learn more about solar panels and if they’re a good option for you.

Cepeda Cheeks6/26/2023

Tips for getting the best solar quotes

Looking to go solar? Get tips on how to get the best quotes from solar companies so you can find the right system and avoid costly mistakes.

Alina Bradford6/24/2023

What is a solar farm?

A solar farm is a photovoltaic (PV) power station that absorbs energy from the sun. Read on to learn more and see if a solar farm is right for you.

Cepeda Cheeks6/23/2023

What are photovoltaics?

Photovoltaics harness sunlight for green energy. Read about the working principles, efficiency, cost, incentives and economic perks of photovoltaics.

Cepeda Cheeks6/22/2023

Greenest states in the U.S.

Vermont, Washington, Oregon, Maine and South Dakota are the most eco-friendly states of 2023. Read our study on the greenest states for more stats.

Kathryn Parkman6/16/2023

How do solar lights work?

As renewable energy becomes more accessible, solar lights are lighting up lives. Here’s how solar lights work and how to shop for them.

Taylor Sansano6/13/2023

Where to buy solar panels

Want to convert your home to solar power, but you’re not sure where to start? Find out where you can buy solar panels and how to choose the right one.

Alina Bradford6/12/2023

Why are solar panels so expensive?

Wondering why solar panels cost so much? Learn what goes into a solar panel installation and whether it’s still worth it in the long run.

Kiah Treece6/12/2023

Solar panels: lease vs. buy

Want to go solar, but you’re not sure how? Find out whether leasing or buying solar panels is right for you and learn the pros and cons of each.

Kiah Treece6/12/2023

How solar energy is stored

Want to learn about storing solar energy? Find out who needs it, how it’s done and how much it might cost you with ConsumerAffairs.

Brian Church6/12/2023

Free solar panels: Are they really free?

Wondering if free solar panel programs are legit? Learn what getting “free” solar panels really means and how it might cost you in the long run.

Kiah Treece6/12/2023

How are solar panels made?

Want to know how solar panels are made? Learn the manufacturing process step by step and find out how environmentally friendly it really is.

Brian Church6/12/2023

3kW solar systems: what to know

Interested in going solar? Learn whether a 3kW solar panel array is right for you, how much one might cost and how much it can save you.

Brian Church6/1/2023

Where your solar savings go the furthest

Thinking about going solar? We look at which states are the best for buying solar panels based on potential savings due to going green.

ConsumerAffairs Research Team 6/1/2023

Going green by generation: Save the planet, or save your wallet?

Exploring how important it is for different generations to contribute to saving the planet, even if it means having to spend more money.

ConsumerAffairs Research Team 6/1/2023

The solar effect

A survey of 1,000 homeowners with solar panels and Redfin data on green homes illuminates the reasons for and benefits of installing solar panels.

ConsumerAffairs Research Team 6/1/2023

100-watt solar panels: what to know

Looking to buy some solar panels? Find out if 100W panels are right for your goals and how many of them you might need with ConsumerAffairs.

Brian Church5/25/2023

Do solar panels increase home value?

Wondering whether solar panels will increase your home’s resale value? Find out the answer and whether it’s worth it with ConsumerAffairs.

Kiah Treece5/19/2023

10kW solar systems: what to know

Interested in going solar? Learn if a 10-kilowatt system is right for your needs, how much one might cost you and how much it can save you.

Brian Church5/19/2023

6kW systems: what to know

Interested in going solar? Find out whether a 6-kilowatt system is right for your needs, how much one might cost you and how much you can save.

Brian Church5/17/2023

Find the best portable solar panels

Compare wattage, size, efficiency and other key features of our top portable solar panels to choose the best ones for your next adventure.

Brian Church4/28/2023

Solar inverters: types, benefits and cost

If you need a solar inverter, you have three main options: a string inverter, microinverters or a solar generator. Learn how to pick here.

Brian Church4/13/2023

7 steps to going solar

Considering going solar and not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with a step-by-step list to help you convert to renewable energy at home.

Brian Church3/9/2023

How does a solar lease work?

A solar lease allows you to rent solar equipment with a fixed monthly payment. Learn more about how a solar lease works and if it’s right for you.

Kiah Treece3/2/2023

Solar panel size and weight: a guide

A residential solar panel is approximately 65 inches by 39 inches and weighs about 40 pounds. Read our guide for more on solar panel size and weight.

Brian Church2/18/2023

What are solar windows?

Solar windows are windows with built-in solar panels that produce energy from the sun. Learn more about solar windows and how they work.

Brian Church2/18/2023

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