Are you interested in solar electricity? chances are you are not the only one thinking on going solar nowadays. The demand for solar has been increasing by 30% in the U.S in the last few years and it is expected to rise even more as utility rates keep rising and we become more aware about global warming

Why do we want to generate power from the sun?

* Clean power means no-emissions
* Lower your electricity bill
* Take advantage of federal and state incentives
* Increase the value of your property
* Protect against electric rate hikes

There are 2 main types of Solar systems:

1. Grid-tie
2. Stand alone or Off-Grid

Off-grid systems are best suited for areas where electrical lines are not accesible for example, a remot cabin in the wilderness. Even tought off-grid could be implemented into a residential home, the average price of the system can be as much as twice the price of the grid-tie

How does Grid-tie work?

Because of the simplicity of both design & operation, grid-tie systems are becoming the choice of homewoners for reliable maintenance-free clean power. As of May 2008, the only utility paying retail price for green power is Lincoln Electric Systems(LES). NPPD will be hosting a public hearing in June 13th, 2008 to consider switching to retail price. NPPD currently pays wholesale price to its customers (2.6 cents average).

Some of the advantages of grid-tie are:

* You remain connected to the electrical utility lines at all times
* Easier installation and less componentes needed for the system
* More affordable than off-grid, dont need a battery bank for storage
* Very little maintenance is needed
* Never be without power
* Offset need for costly high peak demand electricity from the utility (summer)