Solar panels were not that popular a decade ago, and the number of households that used them was about 4% of the total. However, it is clear that the benefits of solar power are being enjoyed more and more, and predictions say that by 2030, the number of households using solar panels is going to triple. Since it can already be noted that many buildings today are being constructed with solar panels in mind, it can be easily said that this prediction is on point – and maybe even an underestimate of the percentage growth.An investment worth consideringWhile the technology was not quite there at the start of the millennium, today, solar power panels are more affordable, which is why it is suggested that every new home should come with them installed from the beginning. Of course, it is important to consider the location of the home, as not all regions are ideal for harvesting the power of the sun, but even with those considerations, more and more Americans are choosing this option. Since the cost of installing solar panels has dropped by about 70% over the past decade, it is a much better investment than before, and it is estimated that they pay for themselves over the course of about seven years. The biggest payoff of solar panels comes from the IRS, who give you money – and getting money back from taxes is certainly a bonus for most homeowners.Hints by the big mouseEven the home of Mickey Mouse, a Disney Park in Florida, is having solar panels added, which will power 40% of the park. This is a sign that solar power is the future of electricity harvesting. Adding the panels to an already existing household is a very easy job, but it can be done much better if they are installed during construction. By designing the household with solar panels in mind, you will be able to cut back on a property’s costs and increase its efficiency. If you have the opportunity to do so, it’s a great investment, whether you plan to live in the home or sell it on.Solar power panels are great for the environment, which is the real reason this system is the future. It is only a matter of time before everyone switches to this technology for all the benefits it offers, and the number of new builds designed with solar power in mind are a clear indication of this.