Photovoltaic (PV) technologies convert the sun’s energy into electricity.  Off grid PV systems store energy in batteries for later use, on-grid PV systems utilize the utility grid for storage of energy.  Solar Energy Solutions offers both types of photovoltaic options for the homeowner.  Systems are available to meet any need or specification, from 1% of your energy usage to 100%.  Want to power a remote cabin?  Want some extra power for an RV?  Interested in adding lighting to a remote building?  Thinking of making your entire home solar powered?  Solar Energy Solutions can do it all!  Contact us today for a free consultation and we will find the best way to meet your needs.    THE ECONOMICS System economics are often a primary concern for someone considering PV. Small PV systems for remote power are often cheaper than running new electrical service into an area. On a large scale, PV systems can be very costly even with financial incentives from a state or federal government. In states with inexpensive electric rates (like Kentucky) we cannot show investment-grade financial returns for most PV systems. However, there is additional value in fixed price energy with no environmental impact for the next 30+ years. In states with incentive programs (like Ohio) it can be possible to show economic returns. Residential PV systems are typically purchased with cash, short term loans, or through 20-30 year loans. Bundling a PV system with a low interest home mortgage can be one of the most cost effective ways to install PV. PV systems are typically estimated in dollars per watt. Dollar per watt pricing refers to the installed cost per rated watt of your PV system. System wattage is related to the amount and type of PV module (panel) specified. For instance, a PV module might be rated at 200 watts STC (standard test conditions). If you purchase 5 of those modules you would be purchasing a 1,000 watt or 1kW system. An estimate of $8-$10/watt would be typical. Pricing is subject to a slight economy of scale, so the more you purchase, the lower price you should expect. To further complicate things, be aware that while STC is the most common method of referring to module ratings, there are other ratings. Your estimate could also be quoted in PTC (PV USA - real world test conditions) which would likely drop performance by about 10%. If you have two quotes of $8/watt, one referring to watts STC and one referring to watts PTC, the PTC quote is actually around 10% cheaper. Another rating quoted might be watts AC. Dollars per watt AC represents the AC wattage production and will be even further reduced from STC and PTC. Expect $/w AC to be much higher than $/w PTC or STC. Let us know your situation and we will be happy to provide ballpark pricing. THE ENVIRONMENT PV has substantial environmental benefits.  30+ years of emissions free power for starters.  While there is a myth that a PV cell never produces more energy than is expended in creation, the truth is they return that energy in 1-4 years.  Moreover many PV cells are now produced by energy from other PV cells.  As electric vehicles become commonplace, expect the residential PV system to be a simple means of becoming carbon neutral. THE EQUIPMENT PV modules come in all shapes and sizes from a variety of manufacturers.  There are even different varieties for different applications.  The same goes for almost all equipment in the PV industry.  For many of our systems we utilize SunPower modules and equipment.  SunPower manufactures the most efficient commercially available modules on the market, meaning more realized power per dollar spent.  If you are interested in researching the different types of arrays, mounting methods, inverters, systems, or anything else, we are interested in talking to you.  Drop us an email or give us a call.  If you would prefer, start by studying the Department of Energy's website.  We look forward to talking with you.