A number of converging factors make the use of solar energy more popular than ever before. Advantages to residential solar energy systems appear in the areas of incentives, financing and technology:

Incentives — The Federal Stimulus Bill was passed by Congress in 2009. This legislation created a 30% Federal Tax Credit for property owners that install solar energy systems. The tax credit applies to the full cost of the system, including installation costs.

Thanks to both climate and a progressive government, California is at the forefront of residential solar in the United States. Although today’s solar cells can produce electricity even on cloudy days, sunlight is needed for optimum production. Many areas of the state are blessed with a high percentage of sunny days. The state has enacted the California Solar Initiative, which provides rebates to homeowners that embrace solar technology on their properties.