# Residential Solar Explained

May 22, 2026

## Solar 101

Solar is one of the fastest-growing energy sources in the United States, and with good reason! While electricity prices continue to increase, the cost of going solar has never been lower. In 2021 alone, **[more than 500,000 U.S. households](https://www.seia.org/research-resources/solar-market-insight-report-2021-year-review)** made the switch to solar—setting an annual record for the fifth consecutive year.

_So why all the buzz? And, more importantly, how does it work?_

In Solar 101, we’ll break down the basics of residential solar energy for any homeowner who is researching, shopping, buying, or well into owning a solar energy system for their home, starting with a quick video.

Solar 101: Power, Savings, and Impact - YouTube

[Solar 101: Power, Savings, and Impact](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Or8h-xk1rt4) [Palmetto](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuKWC81GSj4mWvpNyg0Jkhw)

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## How to use this guide

Use the links below to navigate through Solar 101 topics and resources.

- **[How Solar Works](/content/solar/we-break-down-how-solar-energy-works-step-by-step/index.html)**
- **[System Components](https://help.palmetto.com/en/articles/9948649-solar-energy-system-components)**
- **[Installation Process](https://help.palmetto.com/en/articles/9948651-solar-installation-process)**
- **[Utility Requirements](https://help.palmetto.com/en/articles/9948657-solar-utility-requirements)**
- **[System Performance](https://help.palmetto.com/en/articles/9945396-solar-system-performance)**