Most Efficient Use of Solar Power

From Treehugger.com

Question:
Dear Pablo: I was wondering what is the most efficient use of solar power? is it small arrays of panels used to heat water, large residential arrays used to power homes, or large solar thermal arrays in the desert?

Answer:
The answer to this question is a complex 'all of the above.' The use of solar for hot water and electricity on a residence, as well as the use of utility-scale Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) in the desert, are not mutually exclusive.

By far the most cost effective source of hot water and electricity is conservation, that just needs to be said. Reducing electricity and hot water use through behavioral changes costs nothing, and therefore has an immediate benefit in terms of cost savings and environmental impact. Energy and water efficiency technologies such as energy efficient light bulbs and water-saving shower heads have a relatively low cost and a short payback period. Read the entire article - Hot Water From The Sun and more links.