Solar technology has finally had some of the improvements people have wanted to see for decades. Earlier this year a factory finally started producing more affordable solar cells, ones whose costs are on a par with or even cheaper than power from coal. It's a huge step. Of course that it's so new means that there is still something of a wait to see the results.

Even big businesses such as Walmart are getting interested and adding solar power to their rooftops.

But there are also companies that are more focused on providing solar power to homes at more affordable rates. There are even companies starting up that will in essence rent solar panels to you. Your options are growing.

So how do you decide if solar power is now for you?

1. The expense.

Solar panels are expensive. The time to earn your money back depends in part on whether or not your state or the federal government is currently offering incentives for you to install solar power, but it's often over 7 years.

If money's tight, it might not be for you. But if you can handle the load, solar panels might not be such a bad deal. Especially if the incentives in your area are good.

2. Changing technology.

Solar panels have been going through some interesting changes lately. You might do better to wait. Then again, it could be a long time before the better technology is available to homeowners. How much do you want it and how patient are you? How much do you care about how the costs may change?

3. Where will you install them?

The roof is the installation most people visualize, but if you get a lot of shade on your roof from a tree, this isn't going to work so well.

If you have a homeowner's association, you will also want to talk to them first. Some are pretty picky, even though solar panels are enhancing the value of your home.

4. How well will it meet your needs?

How much power you can generate can be highly variable, depending on season and where you live. Being in southern California, solar's a great idea in my area. Panels will generate a good amount of electricity for most of the year. In other places you will have more times where less energy is produced.

However, do check and see what professionals say in your area. It can be surprising just how much power can be generated by the sun even in areas you wouldn't expect. Don't give up just because you think it's not going to do much in your area. ASK.