Homeowners thinking about going solar may be aware that they can choose between a solar photovoltaic array - which produces electricity - or a solar thermal system, which heats either water or a structure. To reduce cost and complexity, opting for only one of the two technologies is a wise choice for most people - but how should a person decide?

Before embarking on a major home-improvement project, it's best to sit down and look at the costs and benefits of the available options. In a kitchen renovation, for example, a person may be choosing between granite and engineered stone counter surfaces; the latter may be more expensive and more durable, while the former could be more fragile but look better.

The solar selection process is similar. Solar thermal is, in most cases, less expensive - but a photovoltaic array will help a household significantly reduce its energy bills (or, in places where net metering is allowed, allow the electric meter to run backwards).

It's smart to look at the incentives that are available for both options. Because photovoltaic systems are pricier, photovoltaic rebates and subsidies may be more generous. Some states do offer solar-thermal rebates, too.

It can also be wise to examine a household's average energy and water consumption. A household that finds itself using a lot of hot water - and consuming lots of electricity or gas in the process - may benefit more from a solar-thermal installation than a photovoltaic system. On the other hand, though, a house full of gadgets - or one with an electric car or plug-in hybrid - may do better with a photovoltaic array.

If a homeowner finds himself struggling decide between solar thermal or photovoltaic, it may be a good idea to consult with local solar installers. They can assess a property's fitness for different kind of solar power systems and offer expert guidance. It's smart to talk to more than one solar installer and get a variety of opinions.

There's no "one-size-fits-all" approach to going solar, but whichever option a homeowner chooses, he's almost certain to save money in the long run. And he can begin reducing his carbon footprint immediately, whether he opts for solar thermal or photovoltaic.

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