As solar energy becomes more widespread and efficient, a growing number of building companies are starting to design homes with renewable energy installations in mind.

For example, SunRun and Toll Brothers released a joint announcement this week saying that they are teaming up on some new model homes featuring pre-installed solar panels that are said to require no down payment by homebuyers.

The latest result of this partnership was recently unveiled at a community of homes in Yorba Linda, California. Other companies have also responded to increased customer demand for solar by developing more homes that come equipped with this technology.

"Homebuyers have shown overwhelming support for the solar option, and this initiative will save them thousands of dollars over the life of their homes," said Jim Boyd, a regional president at Toll Brothers.

For those who are considering adding solar arrays to their own homes, prices have declined in recent years due to increased production of photovoltaic panels around the world, as well as favorable state and federal tax policies. Also, solar investments now pay for themselves more quickly than ever because of more efficient technologies on the market.