Review approved solar contractors in your area and best practices when choosing a contractor to install solar at your home, small business, or multifamily building. How do ordinary people use solar energy to generate electricity? 1. Solar panels installed on rooftops convert sunlight into electricity, providing a. There are two main types of solar energy technologies—photovoltaics (PV) and concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP). Why Go Solar? Millions of Americans are deciding to power their homes with solar energy—especially as costs have decreased—but an investment in solar energy generates more than just. On-site solar: Homes, businesses, multifamily buildings, and municipalities can get incentives to install rooftop or ground-mounted solar on their property to generate their own renewable energy. In addition, residents with less disposable income often pay more for electricity and have limited access to clean and emergency backup power. Bridging this gap and ensuring.