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For Builders

Photo of a Colorado home that has a 2-kilowatt solar electric system on its roof. The system is connected to the grid and meets nearly 100 percent of the homeowner's annual electricity needs.

This energy-efficient home in Boulder, Colorado, has a 2-kilowatt photovoltaic system installed, which will meet nearly 100 percent of the homeowner's annual electric needs. The photograph was taken at 7 a.m., during which the modules are slightly shaded. Typically, the modules see the full power of the sun throughout the day.

With new building-integrated solar technology, state rebates, federal tax credits, and energy-efficient mortgages, it's a great time to look into solar electricity.

Many builders across the country have found that energy efficient and solar houses will sell faster than competitive houses, saving builders significant costs they typically incur when holding onto unsold inventory.

More and more homeowners are also seeing the added value of solar homes because energy-efficient buildings are better buildings. They use less energy, cost less to operate, and improve comfort. They help the environment and our nation, improving our energy security, as well as the everyday lives of Americans.

Builders who are interested in incorporating solar into their building plans can consult "A Homebuilder's Guide to Going Solar" to begin learning about the technology and the steps to consider when working with solar.

A Homebuilder's Guide to Going Solar (PDF 1.6 MB) helps builders assess the benefits of installing solar equipment or making houses "solar ready" to both their businesses and customers. In the guide, builders will find information on the basics of solar technology, selling points for builders and realtors, a ballpark-cost estimator, and highlights of success stories from builders across the country who have integrated solar into their building plans. Download Adobe Reader.

The Solar Energy Technologies Program's effort to provide information to builders is a work in progress. We welcome your feedback about what information and resources are most useful to you. Send a message to solarbuilderfeedback@nrel.gov and tell us about how we can better serve residential and commercial builders and the building industry in their efforts to go solar.

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