After an initial investment, solar thermal technology may be the answer to high electric bills. As a sustainable, renewable energy source, it can be cost effective, and it gives you a "green" edge over your competitors. Use it for PR and marketing to position your business as socially conscious and cost effective.

Take advantage of existing solar thermal technology to help you make a decision if solar thermal technology is right for you. The initial costs may be too much right now, but implementing a savings plan to afford a system later may pay off greatly in the long run.

To make the most of solar thermal technology information available:

1. Examine your current bills, and run a comparison of what your cost savings would be if you were using solar thermal energy.

2. Factor in your installation costs.

3. Make a solar thermal technology list of your top potential providers. Follow that up with speaking to a qualified salesperson to answer any questions that you might have.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Start with general solar thermal technology information

Begin with solar thermal technology information such as concepts, costs, maintenance and more to familiarize yourself with the concept of solar thermal power and heating.

I recommend: Sign up for a solar thermal workshop from Solar Energy International. They offer both East Coast and West Coast locations. Find solar thermal energy information from the Energy Information Administration. Check out a the solar thermal resources from AGORES. Take advantage of the solar thermal information from the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy site.

Find an East Coast solar thermal technology provider

Those living on the East Coast should consider a regional solar thermal technology provider to help cut shipping costs.

I recommend: Consider purchasing from Solar Panels Plus in Chesapeake, VA. They also offer a comprehensive section on how solar thermal energy. Find additional solar thermal technology information and solar thermal technology supplies from Solar Development. Purchase solar thermal resources from Gallagher Solar Thermal. Order a solar thermal system from Solar Design Associates in Harvard, Massachusetts.

Find solar thermal technology in the Midwest and West

Locate a regional solar thermal technology specialist to help you on your way with your alternative energy project.

I recommend: Order solar thermal supplies from ClearDome Solar Thermal in San Diego. Find out about the commercial solar thermal solutions from Solar Energy Solutions in Kentucky. Find out about California's solar thermal resources from the California Solar Energy Industries Association. Contact Sunergy Systems in Seattle for additional solar thermal resources.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Factors to bear in mind when choosing a solar thermal technology provider include all hardware and labor costs, a warranty, permits and taxes. Make sure that these items are included in your project bid.
• •  You can choose between a roof-mounted system or a ground or pole-mounted system.