Solar energy is an amazing renewable energy source that is growing at a rapid pace. It is also an excellent solution to reduce energy costs by installing solar panels at your home or business. By generating electricity from the sun that hits your roof, you draw less power from the electrical grid, which is beneficial for both your wallet and the environment. Here are five things you may not know about solar energy that will make you appreciate how incredible it is!

1. The U.S. is currently the third-largest solar energy market in the world. Demand has only increased year after year, and it has never been more affordable to make the jump into powering your home or business with solar energy. There are many financing and rebate options available that are well worth investigating.

2. 173,000 terawatts of solar energy continuously hit Earth. This makes solar energy the most abundant energy source on the planet.

3. According to the International Energy Agency, solar energy could supply up to one third of the world’s energy by 2060. You can get ahead of the trend by installing solar panels and making use of solar energy to power your home now.

4. Solar panels can increase your property value. The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy reports that home buyers have been willing to pay a premium of $15,000 for a house with a solar energy system.

5. Solar energy is the most affordable source of energy in the world. Since 2008, the cost of solar panels has dropped by 80%. Thanks to improved technology, solar panels are only more efficient and have become the fastest growing energy source.

Solar energy is an incredible resource and may be more affordable than you think. It is well worth the investment to harness the power of the sun to help the environment and reduce your energy costs.