Solar electricity is a wonderful concept. Take free power from the sun and use it to power electrical equipment. No ongoing electricity bills, no reliance on an electricity socket. "Free" electricity that does not harm the planet. Of course, it is not as simple as that. Yet generating electricity from sunlight alone is a powerful resource with applications and benefits throughout the world. But how does it work? What is it suitable for? How much does it cost? How do I install it? This best selling internet-linked book answers all these questions and shows you how to use the power of the sun to generate electricity yourself. This sixth edition includes more information, with new and improved chapters for grid-tie systems and brings the book right up to date with the latest technology and information. In short, the Solar Electricity Handbook is a practical and straightforward guide to using photovoltaic solar panels. Assuming no previous knowledge, the book explains how solar panels work, how they can be used and explains the steps you need to take to successfully design and install a solar photovoltaic system from scratch. Accompanying this book is a solar resource website containing lots of useful information, lists of suppliers and on-line solar energy calculators that will simplify the cost analysis and design processes. - Publisher.