If like the idea of creating your own electricity and saving money on monthly electric bills in the process, then you might want to consider joining the green energy bandwagon.
Green energy is about using renewable energy resources that are environment friendly, sustainable and money-saving as well.
Solar energy has been the front-runner when in comes to renewable energy alternatives.
This isn't really a surprise because we simple have an abundance of solar energy around us.
And there's no risk of over-exhausting this resource because frankly speaking, we really can't run out of sun, can we? But before we get all excited about the possibility of free electricity, let's first get down to the basics of how electrical power is generated from solar energy.

• Solar energy is collected by photovoltaic cells that make up a solar panel.
  
• This collected solar energy can already form direct current or DC electricity.
  
• But we still cannot use this DC form of electricity so they need to pass through an inverted which will convert DC to AC or alternating current form.
  
• AC electricity is what powers our homes and buildings.
  
• Solar energy systems often employ batteries as storage for backup power in times when there's not enough sunlight available like during evenings or when there's a storm.
  

The usual setback of using solar power system is its high investment cost.
If you opt for professional installation, the price is really expensive.
But there are DIY alternatives which are more affordable and can even save you more money in other aspects.
By building your own solar panels, you are familiarizing yourself with the equipment and might eliminate the need to call in professional technicians in case the system needs repair and maintenance.
Using solar energy to generate electricity remains to be the most viable and practical option.
Technological advancements and progress in the design and development of photovoltaic cells have brought us cheaper and more efficient solar panels, all the more reinforcing our confidence in using this particular alternative energy resource.
And to add to that, some US states, and even some countries, are offering tax rebates to those who are promoting and advocating the use of solar energy, or any other green energy for that matter.
There's also the option to connect solar panels in your existing power meter such that any excess electricity generated by your solar power system will be sent back to the electric company, of course, with corresponding payment (often deducted from your electric bill).
But if you're generating that much electricity, the most obvious choice would be is to completely get off the grid and enjoy free electricity forever.