The article mentioned that "few homes or businesses have an inverter - necessary to convert DC to AC electricity." This is true, but your readers should know that when you buy a solar electric system, the inverter is part of the package.

The article also said that "solar panel systems are still too expensive for home or business owners to find the technology practical." I don't agree. People spend all kinds of money all the time on things for their homes that aren't "practical." It just depends on what you want to do with your money. Solar electric systems appear to be more expensive than conventionally produced electricity because you don't have to pay for fuel over the life of the system, and you don't have to pay the "hidden" costs of pollution that we all pay when we use other fuel sources.

I have owned a solar electric (photovoltaic or PV) system since 1998, and I find it completely practical. It cuts down on the amount of electricity I purchase from National Grid. On many sunny days, my electric meter turns backward because I'm producing more electricity than I'm using.

There has never been a more favorable time to buy a solar electric system. Costs have come down and New York state, like many states, offers through NYSERDA very attractive incentives for buying solar electric systems for homes and businesses.

I think of my PV system as my small contribution to a cleaner environment.

VICKI COLELLO

Albany