Your roof has been inadequate, let’s face it. It has been accumulating leaves, bird droppings, and the occasional misplaced frisbee for years. But what if I told you it might be the most valuable item in your house? That underperforming shingle expanse becomes a money-printing machine thanks to residential solar panels (without the unlawful part).

This is how it operates: Panels are hit by the sun. Electricity is produced using panels. Your Netflix binges are powered by electricity. You purchase less from the grid the more you earn. It’s as easy as that. It’s similar like growing tomatoes in your backyard, but you receive a cheaper electricity bill instead of salads.

The elephant in the room now is the expense. Solar isn’t free, yes. The main twist is that your current electric bill isn’t either. What’s the difference? One never stops bleeding you dry. The other generally pays for itself in less than 10 years, which is faster than you may imagine. Then? Profit only. You may picture your meter turning backwards, a la “Stranger Things.”

“But what if I move?” Relax. Like a new kitchen renovation, solar increases the value of a house. Customers also think “cha-ching” when they see the panels. It’s the uncommon update that pays off both now and down the road.

Here, Shade is the party pooper. Do you have a massive maple tree that casts shadows like a goth teenager? Perhaps you should rethink or cut. They’re not as particular as your gluten-free cousin, though, and the most of setups tolerate moderate sunlight.

The cool accessory that no one realized they needed is batteries. Absence of power? Your refrigerator hums as your neighbors eat cold beans by candlelight. Like a lemonade stand, except for electrons, some systems even let you to sell leftover juice back to the grid.

Upkeep is absurd. 90% of the work is done by rain. If you’re feeling very generous, consider hosing them down once in a while. Nothing can break if there are no moving parts. It is the antithesis of your grass, which requires a lot of upkeep.

The worst part is that going solar isn’t just for you. There will be less coal smoke in someone’s backyard for every kilowatt you produce. Knowing that your air conditioner isn’t literally baking the earth can help you sleep better.

Is it worth it, then? Definitely, if your roof receives sunlight more than three days a year. Free energy has been emitted by the sun for 4.5 billion years. We might as well accept the offer at last.