Solar energy is an abundant resource. Once a curiosity, solar electric systems are becoming commonplace. As we transition away from finite and polluting fossil fuels, clean, reliable, and affordable renewable technologies such as solar electricity will become the mainstay of our energy supply. This book provides a clear understanding of the sun, solar energy, and solar electric systems. It discusses the theoretical, practical and economic aspects of residential solar installations including: inverters; batteries and controllers; costs of solar electric systems; financial incentives; system installation and maintenance; and, permits, covenants, utility interconnection and buying a system. Whether your goal is to lower your energy bill through a grid-connected system or to achieve complete energy independence, this book offers the introduction you need - no Ph.D. required!