A recent poll finds that many Americans are supportive of solar energy and that they are at least somewhat likely to consider such an investment for their own home.

The survey from Rasmussen Reports found that 44 percent of Americans believe that solar should become a standard method of home heating in the U.S. in the near future, compared to 23 percent who disagreed and 33 percent who weren't sure.

Also in the poll, 31 percent indicated that they are "at least somewhat likely" to make solar investments in their homes in the next five years, while 13 percent called themselves "very likely" to do so.

Those in the 18 to 40 age group were said to be most likely to believe that solar will become a widespread home heating source in the United States.

And, many Americans may still be reluctant to go solar because of the perception that it requires a high up-front investment. For example, 25 percent of those making more than $100,000 per year said they are very likely to install solar power at home in the next five years, compared to only 6 percent of those making between $20,000 and $40,000 per year.