There are plenty of ways to be a good neighbor: pick up the mail when they’re out of town, don’t make too much noise at night, return a lost pet, etc. But we think there’s one tactic that stands above the frey; one deed that is sure to make you the most popular person on your block: convince your neighbor, or several neighbors, to go solar.

There are several factors that play a role in the performance of your solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, the most obvious being the size and efficiency of the PV panels. But regardless, keeping your solar PV panels well maintained will improve their performance over a longer period of time.

If you’re a regular reader of the GetSolar blog, you’ve probably noticed that we like to keep you up to speed on the latest electric vehicle (EV) developments. But what do EV’s have to do with solar energy, you ask? In short, everything.

We hear it all the time: “A new solar energy plant has been built.” Or, “Utility a local utility company has entered into a PPA.” Even, “More solar energy will be added to the electric grid.” But the bottom line is, how does any of this affect how much you’re going to have to pay for solar.

Whenever the discussion of solar energy prices arise, the focus is usually on the cost of parts and labor. But there’s another factor, according to a recently released report by the California solar installation company SunRun, that’s adding up to 30 percent to the installation cost: permits. Across the country, installers are becoming more and more frustrated with different requirements, even between neighboring counties. So what’s the deal with solar permits?

The California researchers claim the entire thing is based on the reaction of ceria. When the oven-cleaning metal reaches ridiculously high temperatures, it releases oxygen. When it cools down, it absorbs the oxygen.

Homeowners worried about the solar industry’s strength can take solace in a recently published report by PeachTree Capital Investors in regards to renewable investestments throughout 2010..

A recently released report issued by GTM Research — a Greentech Media Company widely recognized for its in-depth market analysis reports — outlines an unprecedented development taking shape within the solar thermal industy.

Arizona, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, New York: Residents of these states can expect prime opportunities to go solar in 2011 as these five state’s governors’ have made solar energy production and solar technology development a top priority for the new year and beyond.

What’s in store for green homes in 2011? Portland Oregon’s Earth Advantage Institute — which has certified over 11,000 environmentally-friendly homes — has released a report citing what the Institute expects this year’s eco-homes to look like.