Most people opt for solar, also known as photovoltaic, systems because the sun is a more abundant, reliable power source than wind, Masri said. Most people using solar power hook their systems into the state's electrical grid, Masri said. Then, after dark and when it's cloudy, they can pull power off the grid and pay for it with the credit. A bill comes once a year for the difference between what they fed into the grid and pulled off. This system allows people to operate a solar system without batteries, because the grid acts as a battery, storing their energy, Masri said.
Cost makes many people choose to power only part of their home with solar.
But prices are going down. Today, solar systems cost a third of 1980 prices, Masri said. Also, making your own power allows independence in times like these, when utility bills are doubling and tripling. Natural gas goes up and down, but the sun is free. Read more about Digital Convergence .