Includes index.

An introduction to solar energy --
Understanding the sun and solar energy --
types of modules, how they are rated, and advances in solar technology --
Does solar electricity make sense? sizing a system and evaluating its cost and economic benefits --
Solar electric systems : what are your options? --
Understanding inverters --
Batteries, charge controllers, and gen-sets --
Mounting a PV array for maximum output --
Final considerations : permits, covenants, utility interconnection, and buying a system.

Solar Electricity Basics is a highly readable introduction to a promising technology, ideal for homeowners, business owners, builders, and students. It covers everything you need to work with solar electricity including sizing a solar electric system, types of systems, how systems operate, and costs and benefits.