Photovoltaic systems  can be either grid-tied systems where the power grid is effectively used for energy storage (and your meter runs backwards), or off-grid systems where batteries are used to store the solar energy until it is needed.

Solar Hot Water systems can range from small systems that cover a household's domestic hot water needs to large systems that include radiant heating. 

When these solar energy systems are installed, you can significantly reduce your demand for utility-generated energy and produce your own clean, renewable energy.