Even in the Pacific Northwest the amount of sunlight is enough to make solar panels a worthwhile investment. Solar panels are now produced in many forms, ranging from the basic to those with greater architectural appeal designed to 'blend' in with the existing roof covering. They work because electrons are energized when sunlight hits the photovoltaic cells within the solar panel thus creating an electric current. It is unlikely that solar panels would provide all the electrical needs of a domestic residence but the main economic advantage is that of net metering.

Net metering is available to those people who produce their own electricity. It refers to the buying of electricity from the domestic supplier. A home with a solar panel is usually fitted with two electric meters; one for the incoming electricity used and purchased from the utility company, and one for the outgoing electricity. The outgoing electricity is bought by the utility company at an agreed rate and this income offsets the cost of buying power.