People often ask this question and wonder if solar is a viable alternative for their energy needs. Well, in a real fact-driven way, yes. Solar can and is being used for electric production and heating in Maine with large-scale heat pump adoption. Not only is it viable, it is the cheapest long-term solution for your home. It will save you thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the system. I like to talk by example, and my own home is powered this way and has been for years. I have two solar arrays and heat pumps that heat and cool my home. All are powered by the sun. They have eliminated my oil bill and electric bill. All I pay is for the $26.00 to be connected to the grid. Even in more northern climates, solar still pays back well and saves you a lot of money in the long term.