Science vs Technology. When you hear the term science, it is typically associated with the term technology ââ especially when the two are talked about as subjects in school. Although these two terms are often interchanged, there is actually a sparse difference between the two.
Solar companies can typically get a single solar panel at a price of $0.75 per watt. Therefore, if the solar panel output is 250 watts, that single panel might cost you $187.50. However, if a homeowner is trying to buy one or two panels on their own for a small DIY project, they will likely pay closer to $1 per watt.
Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source, yet it makes up less than 1 percent of the power used in the United States [source: USA Today]. Part of the reason more people aren't using solar energy to power their homes is the cost. Solar panels can cost $30,000 or more to install, an investment that can take 10 to 15 years to recoup [sources: Live Science, CNET News, Walsh].