While the economy has yet to recover fully in most parts of the country, many states are benefiting from solar energy from both an environmental and financial perspective.

One such example is Pennsylvania, where the Department of Environmental Protection recently reported that solar energy has produced $1.4 billion in statewide economic benefits in the past year alone.

According to DEP Secretary John Hanger, solar energy generation among the state's power pool increased 350 percent, which helped bring about this added revenue.

"The cost of solar power is plummeting, making solar power increasingly a sound alternative for businesses and families that seek to stabilize and control their electricity costs," said Hanger. "Right now, thanks to sharply lower solar power prices, it is a great time to consider solar power for a home or business."

Many states have achieved greater economic benefits from solar energy, especially those in the Southwest where numerous construction jobs are being created by the various utility-scale projects currently in development.