Install a solar electric system
Tax credits are making photovoltaic(PV) Generation of electricity directly from sunlight. A photovoltaic cell has no moving parts; electrons are energized by sunlight and result in current flow. systems more affordable.
Electricity generated by photovoltaic (PVPhotovoltaics. Generation of electricity directly from sunlight. A photovoltaic (PV) cell has no moving parts; electrons are energized by sunlight and result in current flow.) panels is generally more expensive than utility power but costs are dropping, thanks in part to more generous government subsidies. Net meteringArrangement through which a homeowner who produces electricity using photovoltaics or wind power can sell excess electricity back to the utility company, running the electric meter backwards. allows homeowners to sell excess power to the local utility and draw on the utility when panels don't provide enough power. Stand-alone systems use batteries to store electricity. Building integrated photovoltaic panels are much less obtrusive than conventional arrays.
Green points
LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify. : Up to 10 points for renewable energy systems (EA 10)
NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions. /ICC-700: 1/2 point for each 1/10 kW in capacity for photovoltaic panels.
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia
Learn more in the Green Product Guide
Further resources
BSC Photovoltaic Primer
Solar Energy Industries Association
Photovoltaic Basics
