Despite tough economic times, one segment of business that continues to grow is solar power for homes. The growth can be attributed to the fact that once solar panels are installed on your home, the cost of electricity goes down for the homeowner and the impact on the environment is positive. Solar power is renewable and sustainable and for these reasons alone will appeal to those who are environmentally conscious. If your throw in the added benefit of making good economic sense, you’ll see the potential for growth of the solar industry is impressive.

Solar energy is a key component to the Obama energy policy. As such, the administration of President Barack Obama is pushing solar technology in way that hasn’t been done before. There are a number of tax credits available to homeowners who install solar panels in their home. Now, more than ever, an investment in solar energy technology for the home has a chance at resulting in a positive return on investment.

Getting a good return is important because installation of solar panels tend to remain pricey, despite increasing demand. However, increases in tax credits and a general willingness by state legislatures to promote green energy will likely have a positive effect on solar energy deployment by pushing costs down. Several states are now pushing for solar energy to be an option on new homes.

“It’s just like the granite countertop upgrade or the two-car garage or the larger closet — these are options the homeowner can choose to purchase,” said Jeff Lyng, who manages the renewable energy program for Colorado Governor Bill Ritter’s Energy Office.”

Of course, if given this option upfront, more homeowner’s would readily deploy solar energy in their new homes. If this legislation were to pass, it could server as a needed catalyst for solar power for homes.

It’s not just solar panels that are being considered as options, either. Starting January 1, 2010 in Hawaii, all new homes are to be built equipped with a solar hot-water heater. Right now, Hawaii imports 90% of the fossil fuels used, so the move towards solar makes particular sense.

“Living on an island, that’s not the kind of thing we want to be depending on,” said Russell Pang, a spokesman for Governor Linda Lingle.

These proposals are just the beginning. And as a tiny acorn becomes a mighty oak, solar power promoters are hoping these new pieces of legislation will help grow the solar energy movement into a revolution.

So far it’s clear that Obama is serious about clean energy and will continue to use his immense clout to promote green energy.

“The clean energy revolution is here now,” said Greg Wetstone.

It’s hard to argue with his sentiment as more evidence mounts that solar energy is being utilized across the nation. Solar power in the home is emerging as a potent reality for many, with future growth ensured by current legislation.

For more information on Solar Energy:

• Solar Energy For Your Home
• Solar Energy Pros and Cons
• American Solar Energy