Accessible Solar

Solar power is now within the reach of average homeowners, like Craig Garrison-Mogren. Improvements in the technology have made solar systems more practical and efficient.

Filed under: Eco-Friendly

There's also more of a design choice on the market, with everything from slate solar to no-fringe panels. And government incentives are making them more affordable. Craig has decided to install photovoltaic solar panels on his 1960’s home in Jessup, Maryland.

The deciding factor: the newer PV panels preserve up to 95 percent of the energy collected, a significant increase over the older models. While the system will cost about the same as a new economy car, Craig estimates that his two-kilowatt system will cover about half of his monthly electric bill. He will also receive tax credits for making the switch.