Google announced its largest ever investment in clean technology today: $280 million for a special fund that California-based SolarCity will use to help with leasing arrangements and that both firms hope will encourage more widespread adoption of rooftop solar panels.

This video shows what homes would look like with rooftop panels feeding them electricity directly and how consumers can save money on their power bills.

While the $280 million from Google is a promising investment, it remains to be seen how popular these panels will be. Now, more than ever, the power is literally in the hands of the consumer.