Solar

Do some good research on the theory of solar panels and how long they last, how much you save, how many years before you have to replace them. We did some reseach on that end, and we found that you never break even with them. Of course, if that doesn't matter, then go for it. Some people want them for the "green" aspect. But, if you are hoping to save money, really look at the numbers first. It is possible we were off on the math. :)

We had solar panels for hot water when I was a kid. The panels lasted 20 years and then they just stopped working. At that point, both kids had left the nest and the water consumption was minimal. They did not replace the panels and simply turned the solar option off.
We thought about going solar, but we want our panels on the ground. They get dirty and need to be cleaned. If they are on the roof, they are much harder to get to. In order to "come of the grid" for power, it is very very expensive. You don't recoup your costs for 5 - 10 years depending on the cost of the installation.
For hot water, the installation is much smaller and it does make a huge difference in your power bill IF you do a ton of laundry.
YMMV
LBC

Also check local ordinances/codes some towns have many hoops to jump through for putting them on your roof. You need to add that into the coast as well. Good Luck!

We are in the process of going solar (all hubby's idea). The first guy tried to run off with thousands of dollars. Second company kept screwing up paper work. Both of them had clean records. The third (and final)one we are dealing with is Quad State Solar. It is a long process. I feel it is a scam, but hubby is adamant about the pros about doing this. Everyone has said that the meter will "run backwards"...meaning we will be gaining credits. I read somewhere that a group wants the credits to go towards low income housing and not to those who paid for their solar panels. There are just too many unanswered questions for me. We were approved for the panels, the gov't is soooo slow processing the forms.