I. Introduction
     a. How Solar Panels Work
     b. Future of Solar Panels
  II. Why Solar Panels?
     a. Global Benefits
     b. Personal Benefits
  III. Types of Solar Panels
     a. Types
     b. Efficiency
  IV. Grid Tie & Off Grid
     a. Grid Tie
     b. Off The Grid
  V. How Many Solar Panels?
     a. Reducing Electricity Usage
     b. Figuring Out How Many
  VI. How to Find Best Price
    a. Best Price
    b. Payback Estimate
  VII. Pre Installation
    a. Permits
  VIII. Installation
    a. Ground Mounted Panels
    b. Roof Mounted
    c. Thin Film
    d. Where to Face Solar Panels
  IX. Apply For Rebates
    a. Finding and Submitting
  X. Maintenance
    a. Upkeep
    b. Testing Panels
  XI. Feedback & Questions
  XII. Solar Vocabulary

VII. Pre-Installation

Permits

Before going forward with your solar panel installation, you will need to check with your local building or zoning department to find out the requirements to go forward with the installation. If you are having a solar panel installation company putting up the solar panels for you, then most likely they will be taking care of this for you. If you are doing them yourself, this step is especially important. While it is your right to install them, there are seperate requirements outlined in different areas. Mainly they want to check things like making sure your roof will withstand the weight, the wiring is done properly, and other safety precautions.

If you lived in a planned development, you'll need to check with the Homeowners Association, because they may have additional requirements.

Part VIII. Installation-->