Solar Photovoltaic(PV) panels are the most available method of independant electricity production for the consumer.

OFF GRID

PV panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. This DC power can be stored in batteries, then converted into alternating current (AC ) and consumed when needed. This is referred to as an "Off Grid" system. The advantage of Off Grid systems is that you get the satisfaction of supplying all your own electricity, independant of the grid. When the power is out for your neighbors, you still have all the power that you generated. Off Grid systems are perfectly suited for remote locations, possibly new construction where it is very costly to have grid power brought to the house.

GRID TIED

Another option is the Grid Tied PV system. This converts the DC power generated by the panels directly to AC and tied to the grid currently feeding your house/building. This does not include batteries to store power. The advantage of a Grid Tied system is that any power you generate that you don't consume can be sold/credited back to your power company. So, not only do you generate your own electricity, but the power company will pay you for what you don't use. With increasing pressure on utility companies to "go green", they are always looking for renewable energy producers to buy electricity from. Another advantage of a Grid Tied system is that you can save the money spent on batteries and possibly use it to buy more panels. Also, with a Grid Tied system, you will never run out of power. If you consume more than you generate, you just use power from the grid. The disadvantage is that when the grid goes down, you lose power as well. Grid Tied systems are well suited for developed areas with dependable grid power.

BATTERY BACKUP

The third option is a Grid Tied system with a Battery Backup. The Battery Backup is a small battery bank to give you enough stored electricity to power critical loads such as the refridgerator, well pump, and lights when the grid goes down. This is essentially 'the best of both worlds'. You get paid for the excess power you generate and you keep the lights on when the grid goes down.