When using solar energy for the first time, it’s probably a good idea to start out small. There are outdoor lights that are completely run on solar energy. These can be found at many retailers including big box retailers and home improvement stores. The installation doesn’t get much easier. They simply need to be placed along walkways, in the ground.

When you are building your own solar panel systems, expect to build multiple arrays for the highest-efficiency. A solar panel can only generate a certain amount of energy–usually a fairly low number–which means that you need more than one panel. Multiple panels in the right spots is a recipe for success.

Decide whether you want to be on or off the power grid. Many people look forward to getting “off the grid” when they switch to solar power, however this may not be the best choice. Staying on your power grid means that when you have poor sunlight conditions you have the ability to purchase additional power when you need it. As a bonus, when you produce more power than you use, you can sell the excess back to the utilities.