The Basics
A solar PV system uses an array of panels to convert
sunlight to a home’s electrical load, exporting any excess energy produced from the system to the utility’s grid infrastructure.
A Builder’s Toolkit for Solar
As states and jurisdictions take actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, many localities are considering ways to limit direct (from heating and cooling) and indirect (consumption of electricity by the building occupant) emissions from the building sector. One strategy for builders to consider is the integration or addition of solar photovoltaics (PV).
This toolkit is in process, and additional resources will be added on regularly in the coming months.
Getting Started
Did you know that enough energy from the sun hits the Earth every hour to power it for an entire year? The key is capturing that energy. This video from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) explains some basic concepts about how solar PV works.
If you are interested in a deeper dive into solar and current issues facing the industry, learn more below.
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Solar Mandate Pros and Cons
Is your jurisdiction considering mandating the use of solar for residential construction? Consider these examples of pros and cons for mandating solar, as well as potential questions to ask your local policymakers about key topics areas.
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Solar System Financing
A solar PV system can be a significant financial investment, but the number of available financing options has increased in recent years. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of loans, leases and power purchase agreements.
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Solar PV and Interconnection to the Grid
A key aspect of installing solar PV involves connecting the system to the local utility grid, also known as interconnection. Learn more about the process and working with local utilities.
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Solar Ready Roof
If it’s not possible to add solar PV on a new build, providing a client with a solar PV ready roof can provide benefits at a later point in time.
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Fire Safety and Solar PV
It is important to take fire safety precautions while installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, whether the panels are installed by a professional solar contractor or by a division within your company.
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Community Solar
Community solar allows multiple people to benefit from solar energy — usually in the form of a credit on the electric bill — even if the panels are located at an offsite location.
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Solar Equipment Manufacturers and Companies
Learning more about major equipment manufacturers, installers and financing options can be helpful to get a sense of the types of offerings in the market.
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Builder and Solar PV Installer Partnerships
Partnering with a trusted solar PV installer is a critical step for integrating solar design into your practice and business model.
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Battery Storage
If your customer has opted for solar PV, he or she may also be interested in exploring battery storage options.
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Solar: External Resources
There are lots of solar resources available industrywide. Here is a list of a few you may find helpful.
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NAHB Sustainability Toolkit
NAHB Sustainability Toolkit
Designed to equip and support builders and remodelers choosing sustainability or who want to learn more.
High-Performance Videos
High-Performance Videos
A series of videos to illustrate and explain simple building science concepts to potential buyers.
Advocacy
Advocacy
NAHB fights for our members on Capitol Hill, in your state and in the communities where you do business.