Stephanie on April 10th, 2012

A decade ago, you simply did not see solar panels on mainstream and/or middle class homes.  They were a unique feature, seemingly reserved for the ultra rich, or ultra green. Today, there are many reasons to switch to solar power, and more and more people are doing so!  In fact, One Block Off the Grid [...]

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If you are interested in residential solar panels, probably the best place to start is at the top. Rooftop solar power is convenient in large part because it does not take up any property space, using an area of your structure that is probably already exposed to sunlight.  But is YOUR roof the best place [...]

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Stephanie on January 17th, 2012

Many homeowners who are considering – or want to consider – installing solar panels are concerned most about the upfront cost of such a project.  Fortunately, there are many ways you can save money on solar panels today.  You don’t have to pay full retail price, or even put money down in some cases. Here’s [...]

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Stephanie on January 13th, 2012

Solar power is picking up across the United States with more and more people installing solar panels for energy independence and to reduce their carbon footprint. Although residents of any state can find bargains and incentives on solar arrays, the top 5 states for residential solar panel installations (as of the date of this post) [...]

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Stephanie on January 2nd, 2012

Here in my home state of Oregon, the number of home solar power systems have tripled in the past 3 years. In fact, more than 2/3 of all existing solar installations in Oregon have taken place since 2008.  If you haven’t already done so, isn’t it time to resolve to go solar in 2012? The [...]

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Stephanie on December 14th, 2011

While it is possible to go entirely off-grid with solar panels, most people considering residential solar want grid-tied solar power systems. Summarized briefly, net metering benefits both the property owner and the utility company.  If you have solar panels installed and generate more electricity than you require, the excess is fed back into the grid [...]

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Stephanie on November 19th, 2011

For homeowners considering installing solar panels, there are 5 things you should know about residential solar.  As more and more people decide to switch to renewable energy options like solar power, keep these considerations in mind: 1.  You may be eligible for group solar discounts.  Before you enter into a contract to install home solar [...]

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Stephanie on November 6th, 2011

Solar power panels can help you save money and energy.  But did you know you can save more energy with solar hot water, too? Solar hot water, also known as solar thermal systems (or solar thermal panels), use energy from the sun to heat water for domestic uses without the need for electricity.  For homes [...]

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Stephanie on November 4th, 2011

Should you go solar?  Have you been thinking about solar power for your home? Like many people, you probably want to save on your utility bills.  You might even want to reduce your carbon emissions by using less grid-based electricity (generated from burning coal or natural gas).  You can do both! Residential solar panels are [...]

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Stephanie on November 1st, 2011

Thinking of installing solar on your home?  Do you own or manage a building on which solar panels will be installed? Before you go forward, consider this solar installation checklist: 1.  Research the solar installer beforehand.  Check the Better Business Bureau, and read reviews of their past projects.  Ideally, you should contact customers to ask [...]

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