Solar panels are an efficient, earth-friendly energy source that can power your electronic devices in a sustainable way. If you install solar power at home, you may even generate enough energy to sell some back to your local power company. Find out if your home is a good candidate for solar installation to understand more about regulations in your area and what could be involved.

Solar technology is not only for large-scale power use, however; it can also be used for a whole host of energy needs. You can travel with portable solar panels to power electrical gear like outdoor GPS devices, cell phones and solar generators while camping. You can add vehicle solar panels to your car, van, RV or truck—great for powering equipment while traveling. You can also install small solar panels around your home to power individual pieces of equipment, like security tech and outdoor lighting.

Some things to keep in mind when choosing the best solar panels for your home, vehicle or personal use are the voltage needs of the equipment you plan to power. For example, outdoor power equipment has very high voltage requirements, needs that often exceed the capabilities of small solar setups.

Anyone who is passionate about sustainable living will appreciate how much solar energy can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint. Of course, making the most of your equipment is key to optimizing that solar energy. To do so, research the best placement options for your panels and keep them clean. Good solar panels are only as productive as their placement and condition allow them to be.

Additionally, you want to ensure your panels are connected to a solar generator or other power bank during the sunniest hours of the day. Your panels cannot generate energy at night, so you will need a battery to store that energy into the dark hours. It is also much better to attach your solar panels to a battery than directly to electrical equipment because energy levels from the sun fluctuate, and many electrical gadgets do not respond well to such changes in power levels. Pairing a Powerwall backup battery may be beneficial to keep your power running in an emergency.

Finally, if you are on the hunt for solar-compatible equipment, like solar-powered security lighting, keep an eye out for solar gadgets and solar panels for sale during promotions or holidays sales. Save yourself some money while saving the environment.