Solar Monitoring Systems: Best Apps and Devices 2026 The short version: if your system cost five figures and you still only look at your utility bill, you are missing the easiest way to catch underperformance early. Monitoring is not a gadget add-on anymore. It is operating discipline. If your solar panels have been up for […]

A question that came up in a solar forum I follow recently: someone shared a Facebook ad for a “free solar” program and asked whether it was a scam. The answers ranged from “absolutely, run” to “it depends.” That kind of confusion is exactly what solar salespeople count on. So let’s talk about solar PPAs

Every few months a headline goes viral claiming that some new solar technology is about to make current panels obsolete. Usually it’s hype. But the recent wave of activity around perovskite solar cells is different — not because it’s ready for your roof today, but because understanding where it stands and what it actually means

The numbers are in, and they’re kind of remarkable: wind and solar together generated a record 17% of all US electricity in 2025. For solar specifically, the growth trajectory over the past five years has been steep enough that analysts who were calling “peak solar adoption” a few years ago are quietly revising their models.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. 2026 Buyer Guide Best solar panel brands in 2026: who actually makes the best panels? After 15 years around residential solar installs, my view is pretty simple: the best solar panel brand is

How many solar panels does your home need? Mike’s step-by-step calculation shows exactly how to size your system based on your consumption and location.

Solar panels only help with electricity — but a heat pump can electrify your heating too. Mike shares his real numbers after pairing a cold-climate heat pump with his existing solar system.

You may have seen the headlines: residential solar installations are expected to drop 33% year-over-year in 2026 , according to Roth Capital Partners. Solar companies are struggling. Some installers…

Not everyone can put solar panels on their roof. Maybe you rent. Maybe your roof faces the wrong direction. Maybe your HOA has restrictions, or you’re in a condo with a shared roof. Community solar…

The Virginia solar law that just passed the General Assembly is genuinely significant, and I want to break it down for homeowners who’ve been sitting on the fence about solar. This isn’t just a…

You’ve probably seen the headline circulating this week: “ Solar panels can increase your home ’s value by up to $79,000.” It’s a striking number, and I want to break…

Every few months something shows up in the solar forums that gets people genuinely excited. Sodium-ion batteries are that thing right now. The headlines are promising: cheaper than lithium, safer…