An Introduction to PV Systems
On-Line Resources
Federal and State Rebate Programs
Contact your local power company first, to learn what incentives they may provide. State rebates, visit DSIRE USA For Federal rebates, visit:
- DSIRE USA
- EnergyStar
- Federal Tax Credits
Department of Energy & Educational Websites
DoE: Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy DoE: National Renewable Energy Lab
Home Power Magazine, a highly educational resources in print since 1987 and available at most magazine stands. Fantastic articles about real people building real systems. The Physics of Photovoltaic Cells
Grid-Tied and Off-Grid Design Spreadsheets
Originally built as an educational tool for the owner of a solar PV array installed in Kenya by Over the Sun founder Kai Staats, these spreadsheets offer a rapid, accurate means of not only designing the basic components of a Grid-Tied or Off-Grid system, but also as a self-awareness tool, a mirror for your home's power consumption and where you may be able to save energy and money as well.
Grid-Tied Home Calculator - SIMPLE (.xls)
Grid-Tied Home Calculator - FULL (.xls)
Off-Grid Home Calculator (.xls) Utility Scale PV Generation Calculator (.xls)