Monitor Production Most solar systems come with a physical solar meter or an app to track solar output. However you monitor your solar system, you'll want to check the kilowatt-hours. If the kilowatt-hours are increasing, your solar system is performing.

To verify a company's credentials, visit the Solar Energy Industry Association and the industry licensing database. Getting at least three bids will show you the real cost of solar panels, help you better understand the process, and teach you the right questions to avoid a scam.

For solar energy to power your home, you need to run the system-generated electricity through the inverter and convert it into alternating current (AC). Depending on your chosen setup, you may have to connect the solar battery and inverter to your circuit breaker panel and fuse box to run into the home.