The initial cost of installing solar power is relatively high, however the month to month cost of solar power in use is zero.

Even though the current prices of the components used in solar power systems is high, the development of new technology and the growth of competition in the industry should begin to drive the prices down. 

When looking at the cost of solar power you need to keep in mind the long-term picture and compare the cost to the investment.  Also, most system components are under warranty for approximately five years, so you can divide the total cost of solar power installation by 60 to determine a the per month cost.  If the parts last longer than their five-year expectation, then the monthly cost will continue to provide a savings. 

There are several factors to keep in mind when you are investigating the feasibility of a solar power system in your home or business.  The cost of a loan to cover the costs of the initial installation could well be offset by tax savings that may be granted by federal or state governments for the use of alternative, renewable energy. Also it would be advisable to look at the possibility of grants that may be available through the government or some other agency promoting alternative energy development.  

The biggest factor to consider may be the cost of solar power, but it should not be the only one. The reliability of adequate sunlight must be taken into consideration. It would be laughable to think of installing solar power in the far north where there are several months of almost total darkness. By the same token, some areas will be plagued with too much cloud cover or just plain overcast skies. For the ideal situation there should be between four and six hours of daylight, preferably with full sun. With most solar power installations it will be necessary to have an alternate source of power for those sunless stretches and maybe even the night time hours. This could be from some form of petroleum powered generator or by maintaining a connection to the electric power grid. The easiest way, of course, is to stay in the power grid. In some cases, and by making special arrangements with the electric utility company, you may even sell your excess electricity to the power company thus reducing your cost when you need to draw on them for power.

While the initial cost of solar power is high, the benefits may outweigh those costs in cleaner electricity, lower utility bills, satisfaction in knowing you are taking a step to protect the planet, and wouldn't it be great to be the only house in the neighborhood to have lights and other electrically powered services when there is a failure in the power company service?