Photovoltaic (PV) solar systems convert sunlight into usable energy in your home or business. The potential for solar is huge! With modern PV technology, we could supply all of the U.S.'s electrical needs by covering only one third of 1% of our country's land in modules. There are no moving parts on a solar PV array, so once installed the system delivers clean energy for over 25-years with almost no maintenance cost. In addition, today's solar photovoltaic technology is operating at higher efficiencies and higher power outputs, increasing the amount of energy you can generate.

Grid-tied solar PV systems are the most common type of installation for Urban Grid's customers, allowing flexibility in the system size you choose for your home or business. There is no change to the way you use electricity in your home. Grid-tied systems offset a portion of your current electrical usage and your current electric provider supplies the remaining electricity required to power your home. You get the same monthly bill, just at a lower price.With a grid-tied system, you are never without electricity unless there is a power outage with the utility provider. However, from residential to large-scale commercial projects, grid-tied solar will continue to be the most viable option for an affordable and effective renewable energy system.

Urban Grid handles all the paperwork and arrangements with your utility company to install the net meter after the completed installation.

Off-grid systems directly power your home and operate without interaction from the utility company or the power grid. Off-grid systems require a back-up device (a generator or battery) to store the solar energy for use when it is dark outside. A strong commitment to energy conservation is typically required to ensure your electricity usage stays within the stored generated capacity. Battery back-up systems can be very effective for the right project, but are typically best suited for rural areas where access to conventional electric lines is too costly. A clean-burning generator can be more economic alternative to a battery backup array.

A third system, called a hybrid system, allows you to operate on the grid when the power is up or off the grid when your power is down.

There are currently financial incentives that make renewable energy not only a social and environmental contribution, but a good investment too. Federal tax credits are currently in place allowing you to cover 30% of your total renewable energy installation cost on the following year's taxes. Additional programs such as the USDA Renewable Energy for American Program that allows for an additional 25% off the cost of your renewable energy system if your small business is in a rural area or generates over 50% of its income come from agricultural processes. Many states offer additional rebates and credits, as well as personal property and sales tax exemptions depending on your location. To learn more, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency or DSIRE.