Okay, no offense, but unless you're living under a rock, you're probably starting to change some of your habits to be green. Maybe you're taking recycling more seriously, maybe you're buying products made from recycled content, maybe you're just being careful to watch how much water and electricity you use. We're making an undeniable move forward that you really can't avoid anymore. Now that we know what crappy condition we've caused the planet to be in, we're doing something about it. Day late and a dollar short, but it still makes a difference. It's all about future prevention. Plus, what do you know, we're realizing a lot of benefits come from conservation, preservation, recycling, etc. Even if you're not into the whole environmental movement, how can you not be into saving money, something a lot of these methods do? One of the best examples is the solar panel. The solar panel is an amazing energy saver, works wonders for the environment by cutting down electricity - oh, and guess what else it does for you by cutting electricity? It saves you money. You'll help the earth, you'll save money, and since everyone can see your panels, you'll look really cool and "with it."

What are solar panels, and how are they installed?

The solar panels are basically panels made up of photovoltaic cells, and these cells take sunlight energy and turn it directly into electricity - pure, clean electricity. From the sun. Amazing, I know. Absolutely no emissions are produced in this process.

The panels can be installed on a stand to remain on the ground, or they can be mounted on the roof. A battery back-up system is installed in case of power outages - but at no extra cost or maintenance to you. Then the difference between grid and off-the-grid comes in. See, if you're living "off-the-grid," you're not connected to any main power lines. Solar panels are easy and ideal in this situation. Just install and go. If you are on the grid, you just use less energy - so less on your bill - and you can sell your excess energy from your local utility back to that utility. When you're on the grid and you get panels, you'll actually get a DC to AC converter, which converts the direct current (DC) of electricity produced by the panel to alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity you need for your home. So the solar panels do all the work for you! Neat, right? So on the grid or off the grid, the panels are a clear choice. Your general contractor does this installation, although you may have to shop contractors to find the right one who is experienced with this type of thing. Solar panels are getting more and more commonplace, but not every contractor is well versed in installation yet. Verde Energy's website can you help you find a contractor by you for installation.

Who would get the most out of solar panels?

Remember, solar panels are great for any home, whether it's on the grid or off. So, anyone who wants to save energy, the environment, and money is a candidate. But, this type of installation is really for private homes instead of apartments - one downside, and one population sort of left in the solar dust here. There's always the option of coming to the decision as a building and rallying for the building owners to go solar. But the decision will be less up to the homeowner or renter in an apartment building or complex.

What are the benefits?

Well, everything. That's why you're having them installed, right? They'll keep your electricity bill low and consistent from month to month. And, guess what: you can actually apply for tax credits if you have solar panels. Nice, I know. And don't forget you can sell your excess power back to your local utility for even more money saved. Plus, they're really low maintenance, and they provide super reliable power. Best of all, you're creating clean energy for a better, cleaner, healthier earth! (That is the main reason you're getting them, right?) Really, even for those who are skeptical of certain "green movements," solar panels are such an easy way to save energy and money. Once you make the call to find your contractor and the installation is complete, you can sit back and cut down on electricity.

What are the disadvantages?

Well, again, it's a pretty big downside that it's exponentially more difficult to install these if you're, say, renting an apartment. Then it looks like you'll have to find other ways to save the earth. Other than that, if you do have a home you can install the panels on, the only problem you might find, if you look for problems, is décor-related. If you have an eighteenth century English cottage, these might be a bit unseemly for you. But you can always tuck them in different places of your roof to try and conceal. If you get discouraged, just look at your current electricity bill and think of the savings!

Courtney Iseman is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a contractor or more home care articles at Yodle Consumer Guide. Residential Solar Panels: Do Your Part and Save