How Solar Energy Works

Solar photovoltaic power is created by the process of converting the light/energy of the sun into electricity. This process happens when the light of the sun hits a solar panel. The light causes electrons to move within the solar cells creating Direct Current (dc).  The Direct Current travels through the wiring system to a device called “inverter”.  The inverter changes the waves of the electricity from Direct Current to Alternate Current, which is the type of electricity that most household appliances use.  The electricity is either used by appliances in your house or it can be sold back to the electric company.

Electric utility companies are required to “buy-back” any electricity excess produced by your system; this is real money in your pocket!  Furthermore, every solar panel system installed eliminates the creation of carbon dioxide produced by companies utilizing non-renewable sources as a method of energy production. (click the image to the right for a larger view)

 

  Tax Rebates and Incentives for Going Solar

Solar Energy is a clean renewable resource that is abundant across our planet.  Tax incentives and rebates can help home and business owners overcome financial barriers to installing and using solar-powered devices. The United States House of Representatives approved two bills, H.R. 2776 and H.R. 3221, that extend the 30 percent solar energy investment tax credit for businesses as well as improve the tax credits for homeowners.

Along with the government offered energy efficient tax credits, we can also view the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE). This website has a comprehensive list of incentives, deductions, credits and grants for solar projects. All is shown on a state by state basis.

Simply put, the Federal Government is allowing a 30% tax credit on the installation of Renewable Systems-which include Solar PV Systems, Solar Water Heating, Geothermal, etc.. This, in combination with the Georgia State Government’s tax credit “pool”  plus various other incentives (like your local utility provider) has created a situation where the time to invest in solar is now!

 

 

  Why Go Solar?

2008 brought very helpful incentives to home and commercial owners and provided the means for a new energy source to become economically practical. The government incentives plus the advances in technology have driven the prices of solar energy to a level not seen until today. If the financial aspect of Solar Power is not enough, then let's think about the future of our planet. Let's try to create a better environment for us all to live in by becoming more efficient in our homes and business.

Solar energy has helped people all over the world to:

• Stop paying the increasing cost of electricity, and even get paid for the electricity they produce
• Help prevent air pollution from coal usage, which is used to create electricity
• Reduce their carbon footprint upon the environment
• Embrace a cleaner,brighter future for our children and grandchildren

Solar energy is here and when seen from every angle possible, it is one of the smartest investments for today.