We don’t typically think of our home polluting or having impact on the environment. Buildings (homes and businesses) consume two-third of of total U.S. electric demand. New structures may be more energy efficient due to newer heating and cooling systems, energy-star™ appliances, better insulation, windows and doors. The U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has set guidelines for “green” buildings that many customers and builders are embracing. In general, any improvement to the efficiency of your home (reducing your total energy consumption) helps to reduce the size of the solar installation needed or it allows the solar to satisfy a higher portion of your energy requirements. In short, energy efficiency and energy conservation amplify and complement the values and benefits to having a residential solar energy system. This section will help consumers understand the different types of solar energy systems used in residential applications.