Ultimate Guide To Solar For Your Home | Enlyten Energy

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO

SOLAR FOR YOUR HOME

ENLYTEN ENERGY'S

ABOUT ENLYTEN ENERGY

We exist for 2 reasons; Love God and Love People. Our Mission:To honor and glorify God by being faithful stewards of His resourcesand to love and value people by being conduits of His grace. Our Vision:To help 10,000 home owners take control and save money on theirenergy needs To learn more, please visit our website at EnlytenEnergy.com

INTRODUCTION

Switching to solar energy is a major decision, and there are a number of things youmust know about solar before making this decision. Everyone wants to lower theirelectric bill and solar panels are one thing that immediately come to mind. Our goal for this guide is to provide you with much of the initial research tohelp you make an informed and educated decision. While spending a lot of money to install a solar panel system seems to contradictsaving money, in the long run, solar power will save you money. Solar energy (PV - photovoltaic) systems have proven to be a very reliabletechnology and components have steadily decreased in cost over the past 10 years. Combined with state and federal incentives, there isn’t a better time than now to gosolar. By investing in solar for your home, you will have a system that reliably produceselectricity for many years to come, with little to no maintenance. In addition, solar is also a good investment. A solar system that you own willincrease your home’s property value. For the average home you’ll probably see anadditional $15,000 - $20,000 increase. Finally, going solar will allow you to become “energy independent” and will free youfrom any future utility rate increases. You’ll have a predictable and reliable energysource for at least the next 25 years. Thanks again for downloading this guide and we hope you get a lot of value out ofthis! Sincerely, Brian T. PeñaCEO and Founder Enlyten Energy

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1Reasons to go Solar...............................................................1 Chapter 2How Solar Energy Works......................................................12 Chapter 3The Process of Going Solar..................................................27 Chapter 4Choosing the Right Solar Provider........................................30 Chapter 5Frequently Asked Questions.................................................41 Next Steps.............................................................................51

CHAPTER 1: REASONS TO GO SOLAR

Solar power has made tremendous progress over the past 20 years asmanufacturers have been able to improve their products and manufacturingcapabilities. At the same time educating homeowners on the benefits of solar is imperative. Theassets far outweigh the liabilities compared to a couple of decades ago. With the solar industry moving so quickly, you may be looking at yesterday'sbenefits. Discover why so many people are choosing this energy alternative andlearn the reasons why going solar far outweigh the choices that we are now beingfaced with. Solar is the FutureOne fact about a trend is the ability to withstand the test of time. Take the TV forinstance. Once very costly in their attractive consoles, a trend of smaller modelscame along. Everyone wanted a tiny TV to watch at the breakfast table. Before long,this trend phased out. Flat screen TVs were in style and the bigger, the better. Lookat the changes that occurred to bring us to the Wi-Fi era. While a solar system is more expensive than a TV, the payback is enormous. This isa trend that may change in form over the coming years, but the proven idea of goinggreen by investing in solar is one that is here to stay. 40 years is enough of a trial torecognize a positive trend. The number of installations of solar panels for residential areas are hitting recordnumbers. Data on residential and commercial properties have been collected since2010. Currently, there are approximately 2 million homes in the United States withsolar panels. However, considering there are nearly 90 million single-family homes inthe country, that doesn’t seem like very much. Previous to 2010, homeowners were pretty excited about solar panels that couldsave them from paying high electric bills. However, charts from the IPCC show thatnot everyone was on-board to make this happen. The price per watt per solar panelin 1985 was nearly $7.00. Yes, the news was great, but who could afford it? Todaythat price has dropped to around $.447 per watt per solar panel. - 1 -


Nonetheless, the country is now on track to begin adding nearly one million newsolar systems to homes every year. Solar is increasingly a popular option to powerour homes in the near future. Generating electricity from the sun is now the lowest-cost option globally forgenerating power. Even the big utility companies are moving toward solar power, aswell as wind. Xcel Energy provides electrical power from Colorado to Texas andeven Michigan; Xcel is poised to build large solar power facilities in Colorado. PacificGas & Electric in California is committed to renewable energy, pledging to makerenewable energy 55% of its power production by 2031. In fact, experts believe thatCalifornia will achieve 50% renewable energy by 2025. Nevada has also investedheavily in solar energy, with large solar arrays in several locations across the state. Deciding whether to go solar may seem like a big decision that requires muchthought but the benefits of solar are undeniable. Going solar now will put you aheadof the game, saving not only your money, but also contributing positively to theenvironment. SEIA GoalsThe Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)was formed in 1974 as a drivingforce to educate, advocate and implement the use of solar power. You will find themon the floor of the Senate and with solar manufacturers in developing a rise in theindustry. Considered the national trade association for the U.S. solar energyindustry. They employ over 242,000 Americans and have over 1,000 membercompanies. Their future goals are to achieve a 20% electricity production rate bysolar power by the year 2030. The approximate number today is 2.5%. Solar Installation Education and CertificationPrice for solar panels is not the only thing that has changed from 30 years ago. Solarpanel installation cost in the 1980’s was out of sight. We were all on unfamiliarground with this new green energy and installers were difficult to find. When youwere able to locate a qualified solar panel installer, the price tag was astronomical.Installers were basically electrical contractors that understood how to convert ac todc for powering a house. There were few classes to train installers which led toproblems with the installation process. Today, solar panel installation cost has

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declined due to certified employees being able to complete the task more efficientlyand in less time. Newly Created Career OptionsToday, solar photovoltaic installers have learned a specialized skill that puts themahead of any generalized group of installers. They must be able to work with powertools and hand tools at great heights. Their knowledge of electrical wiring has to beprecise. Often installer must be problem solvers, able to repair damaged systems orreplace malfunctioning components. The Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) supports the growing solar workforcewith training programs, professional development and career building. Many othercareer options have unfolded with over 240,000 solar energy employees. An entireresearch, training and education framework has been created to keep careeropportunities available to anyone that finds solar power exciting and a positive trendof the future. Storage ProblemsIn past years, there were an array of industrial batteries that had to hold the solarpower. Utility companies were not yet involved in tying solar power to their grids. Itwas not until 2013 that electric companies found a safe solution for handling solarpower. Homeowners were alone and confused as to how the entire process worked.These pioneers were determined to make solar energy work, but unfortunately, therest of the country did not have the time, money or resources to invest into such aninfant process. Hello Net MeteringNet Metering (or net energy metering) is an incentive allowing a homeowner to sendelectricity back to the grid and basically use the utility company as a type of storagein today's world. When the solar system produces more electricity than the household needs, theextra electricity is transmitted to the grid for credits. At night or at times when yoursolar panels aren't producing, such as cloudy days, you can use the credits forelectricity from the grid.

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The right size solar system can allow you to produce enough electricity for yourhome, but the amount of electricity your system produces will vary. Net metering canhelp you off-set these differences. Generally, most solar homes produce more than enough electricity in the summer,but will use more power from the grid during the winter. Since these variations arepretty predictable, the utility company won’t send you a check if your solar producesmore electricity than you need. Rather, they will let you accrue credits during thesummer to use at night and during the winter when you need that extra electricity. Ifdesigned correctly, your solar system can generate enough electricity to keep yougoing all year, including net metering credits. Solar energy production typically peaks during the afternoon, when most peoplearen’t home. In contrast, home electricity usage typically is higher during the morningand evening. Net metering can help you compensate for these variations in yourdaily electricity usage and production. Net metering feeds that excess electricity into the grid when your solar producesmore electricity than you need. When net metering kicks in, your electric meter willactually run in reverse. When your solar is not producing enough electricity for yourneeds, you can draw it off the grid just like before you installed solar. Net metering ensures that any excess energy production will still be utilized.Likewise, it ensures if you come up short, your electric needs will still be met. It's likethe excess electricity your solar system produces is saved up for the times when it'snot producing enough. If your solar energy system makes more electricity than you use during the month,your utility company will give you a credit on your bill. This is based on the totalnumber of kilowatt-hours you sent to the grid. If your solar produces less energy thanyou need during the month, you will need to buy electricity from the electric companyto compensate for the difference. In this case, you could pay for it using your netmetering credits. Net metering allows a homeowner to accrue credit for the electricity their solar

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systems generate at the same rates they would pay to their utility company. As aresult, homeowners can save many thousands of dollars on their electricity bills overthe lifetime of their solar energy system. You are able to send them your solar energy until it is needed. Using credits as aform of stored kilowatts, customers are also allowed to roll over these credits frommonth to month. For example, power that was produced in July and sent to theelectric company will be available to use when it is needed in December. Unless youplan on going totally off-grid, this is a win-win proposition for clients and the utilitycompany.

Financial ReasonsSolar power no longer has to be costly. In fact, solar panels for your home havereached the point in energy savings that they are actually beginning to make moneyfrom their investment. Compare this analogy to homeowners versus renters.Homeowners can watch the value of their homes increase by making the rightimprovements. Renters may not have the upkeep of property, but their moneycontinues to go into someone else's pocket. Solar power is a home improvementproject that increases the value of your property. Freedom at LastIn addition, you no longer have to feel as if you are being held prisoner to a largeentity that can increase your rates at any time. You are in charge of what your utilitybill looks like because you own the power. This is not like a co-op that shares in theprofits of a company. You control the purse strings on how much you want to pay.Many states have already restructured their electricity industry to make them morecompetitive with suppliers. You can be one of these suppliers. Think about it. There could be no more adjustments to your monthly budget due toelectric company pay hikes, approved regulations, or weather that is unusually hot orcold. Once you get used to averaging the amount of energy that your householduses, certain you would be able to know what your energy consumption would be. Bye Bye ITCThe ITC is coming to an end. The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) was a federal

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government incentive program that was enacted in 2006. The goal behind thisprogram was to give an incentive to residential and commercial property owners toinstall solar panels. Participants that installed, developed and/or financed a projectwere able to receive a refund in the amount of 30% off of their tax returns. The scheduled departure of the ITC will begin in 2020 with a decrease to 26% in taxcredits for those that have started construction with solar power for homes orbusinesses. This percentage will continue to decrease to 22% in 2021 and becompletely eliminated for residential participants beginning January 1, 2022.However, commercial solar power installations will remain at a permanent 10%credit. The ITC program has helped in the growth of the solar industry by 5000% over thepast decade. Without this type of jump start, solar panel cost may have beenuntouchable for a lot of new customers. Incentives Still AliveAlthough the ITC program is coming to an end, its purpose has been achieved.Certain states, municipalities, utility companies, and other organizations have pickedup the ball in providing incentives for residential and commercial interests in solarpower. There are some legislators that are now introducing the extension of the ITCprogram because of the amazing results that it has delivered. Perhaps we will beable to reap the benefits of this program for a little while longer. State Tax CreditsMany states have decided to keep their own form of ITC program in place. Statesvary in the amount and the type of tax credits issued, but it can make a significantdifference in the price of solar panels for your home. For example, Indiana offers aRenewable Energy Property Tax Exemption and the cities of Indianapolis andBloomington have Green Building Incentives. There is also a grant programavailable through the state's Community Conservation Challenge. Arizona, on theother hand, is more aggressive in its solar power initiatives. The state provides a25% personal tax credit for residential properties. They also have a sales taxexemption for equipment purchased. Cities, such as Scottsdale, Buckeye, Chandler,Tucson and Phoenix have incentive programs for their residents. Tax credits are

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also available to solar power manufacturers in an effort to drive competitive solarbusiness. Cash RebatesRebates can be offered by your state, municipality, utility or solar panel company.They normally run from 10 to 20% and are issued for a limited time. You can callthese organizations to see if there will be any specials being available in the nearfuture. Energy CertificatesSolar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) are issued by utility companies. Theyare the equivalent of a check that pays you for your generated solar power. Aftertaking into account how much power you are capable of producing, they will sendyou an SREC for the amount of solar that they can count on from you. This gives theutility company a future source for electricity and puts hundreds, or even thousands,of dollars in your pocket. SRECs vary from state to state so you will need to checkon whether or not your state is a participant. Performance-based incentives (PBIs)PBIs are similar to SRECs except they offer you credits toward your future energyand deduct in the form of kilowatts from your utility bill. There are certain stipulationsthat may be applied to this program, depending upon your state. Some statesrequire that the equipment you install is manufactured in your state while others setspecific kilowatt-hour prices. Not all states participate in this program and it is best tocheck with your utility company regarding SRECs for more information. The Solar FoundationThe Solar Foundation represents SolSmart, a national designation programrecognizing communities that make it faster, easier, and more affordable to go solar.They help local governments achieve goals in removing obstacles to solar energydevelopment, helping attract economic development and new jobs. A communitythat holds a SolSmart Gold, Silver, or Bronze recognition will be more apt to helpresidents in finding programs that help financially. All municipalities and counties inthe United States are eligible to sign up and receive this no-cost assistance.

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Increased Home Value and ResalabilityIn a study done by Berkeley Lab, on almost 4,000 homes with solar installed, it wasdiscovered that homes with solar sold at a premium of about $15,000 more thanhomes without solar. In addition, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that homeswith solar sold 20% faster. Environmental BenefitsPollution in the environment has been rising since the Industrial Revolution firststarted around 1760. While some atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide isnatural, human activities may have forced an unnatural increase. It is estimated thatthere has been a 45% increase in the amount of greenhouse gases since coal, oiland natural gas has been used in manufacturing processes. In addition,deforestation, changes in land use, soil erosion and agriculture have also played apart in this increase. In hindsight, fossil fuels seemed the answer in moving ahead with improving ourworld. Mass production, combustible engines for vehicles and powering homes andbusinesses with fuel provided a growing society with streamlined living. While wehave grown accustomed to these pleasures as necessities, nature may disagree. According to some estimates, in thirty years, the world will be using 75% moreenergy than it does now and our current energy mix won’t meet that demand. Solar power is readily available and does not produce greenhouse gases or disruptthe atmosphere with pollution. While it isn’t the perfect answer to ending all of the illsof the environment, switching from fossil fuels for cooling and heating homes, canhave a large impact

Greenhouse GasesWithout getting technical, greenhouse gases are nature's way of keeping theatmosphere at a constant balance. Not all greenhouse gases are bad. They arenecessary to control the temperature of the Earth's surface. If there were nogreenhouse gases at work, the temperature of the Earth would be 0-degrees F.

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When balanced, greenhouse gases keep the surface at a comfortable 59-degreesF. The possible disruption of the natural balance may have occurred when fossilfuels were introduced.

Determining Your Solar System Cost Solar panels are the ultimate way of figuring your price for solar power. Not allpanels are the same in terms of wattage output. You will want as much power aspossible, but there are other factors to consider when purchasing solar panels forhome use. Everyone's household and location are different. What may cost one customer$4,000 can go as high as $70,000 for the next. There is no one-size-fits-all systemwhen talking solar power. An estimate on a household with an 8 kilowatt system inthe Western states is about $3.25/watt or about $26,000. When you factor in all ofthe federal and state incentives your net solar system can be reduced to $18,000.There are a few solar panel companies that are beginning to offer payment options,but not many. Most financing still has to be done through a financial institution in theform of a home improvement or second mortgage. There are other options forreaping the benefits of solar power without putting up a lot of upfront money.

Ways of Going Solar: Leasing vs PPA vs Owning Your SolarSystem LeaseA solar power lease is a contract between a solar panel provider or a third partycompany representing the solar panel equipment provider and the property owner.The purpose is to allow homeowners the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of solarpower without putting down any upfront money. If a homeowner is unable to borrowthe funds necessary to buy a solar system outright, a lease is usually possible. The contract will specify what equipment is to be leased and the duration of therental period. The length of time can be anywhere from 10 to 25 years. The propertyowner also gives up any rights to various state and federal rebate programs as they

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are not the current owner of the equipment. In exchange, the homeowner is able touse the solar equipment and the savings generated. Maintenance is provided by theparty that leases the equipment. Depending on the agreement, there is usually a buy-out option to allow thehomeowner to purchase the lease. There may be some additional terms andcharges to be met, but the equipment can become yours any time during the lease. PPAA power purchase agreement (PPA) is similar to a solar lease contract as third partylenders remain in ownership of the equipment. Instead of a flat monthly payment, appa uses the kilowatt hours produced by the solar system as a form of repayment.For example, where a solar lease may charge a flat $105 monthly payment, a PPAwill base your monthly payment on the amount of kilowatts produced by the system. As a result, PPA payments will likely be higher in the summer months since the daysare longer and therefore more electricity is being produced. During the course of the PPA contract, there is usually a rise in cost per kilowatt hourby a percentage on an annual basis. However, just like a solar lease contract, thehomeowner is able to eventually own the equipment at the end of the contract or bynegotiating a buy-out. The maintenance remains on the provider of the ppa contractuntil ownership is transferred to the homeowner. Not all states are set up to offer leases or ppa contracts. Because the sale ofelectricity is considered a regulated activity, State Legislation has to adopt and passthe use of third party ownership. Some states have yet to provide this initiative. Direct Ownership: Cash or Finance?Being able to own your solar panels from day one has many benefits because stateand federal governments are continuing to add programs to promote solar power. As opposed to a lease or a PPA where the installer receives the incentives, you thehomeowner are eligible to receive the incentives. Just like purchasing a car for cash, buying a solar system requires a significantupfront cost and, depending on your utility, can take anywhere from 5-12 years to

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start seeing a return on your investment. As solar has gained popularity over the last few years, many companies havestarted offering solar loans. However with any type of financing program, it is moreexpensive to involve a third party in financing since interest charges are involved. The good news is that many companies offer loans with interest rates as low as2.99% and with payment terms as long as 25 years. These loan options can nowallow you to have a monthly payment that is less than your current electric bill. Another great option to finance your system is by taking out a home equity loan oreven refinancing your home to pay cash for the system.

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CHAPTER 2: HOW SOLAR ENERGY WORKS

While almost every homeowner can benefit from solar energy, very few peopleunderstand how a solar system works. How can a simple solar panel transform sunlight into the power you need for yourhome? How do solar panels work? How many solar panels do I need? What are thedifferent components that comprise a home solar system? How can installing a solarenergy system save you money? These are just some of the common questions everyone has about solar energy,and this chapter aims to provide the answers.

Solar System Types: Stand Alone vs Grid TiedSystem type refers to how you are going to use your solar power. Stand-alonesystems are totally dependent on solar power for energy. Grid-tie systems relies onlypartially on solar power, while the rest is provided by the electric company through anet metering program.

How Do Solar Panels Work?The first thing people think about in regard to solar energy, is the solar panel. Buthow do solar panels work? How can a flat piece of black glass and aluminumtransform sunlight into electricity? To put it simply, separating electrons from atomsis what creates electricity. Solar panels can easily achieve this complex task. Solar panels are comprised of photovoltaic cells, and the cells are what transformlight into electricity. The term photovoltaics means the direct conversion of sunlightinto electricity at an atomic level. Photovoltaic (PV) cells are made up of 2 semi-conductor layers made of silicon. One layer has a positive charge and the othernegative. Sunlight activates the photons and the electrons on the negatively chargedsemiconductor layer are knocked loose from their atoms. The freed photons andelectrons can now move toward the positive charged layer and create electricity. The photovoltaic effect was first discovered by Edmund Becquerel, a Frenchphysicist in 1839. He discovered that some materials produced a small amount ofelectricity when exposed to sunlight. The first photovoltaic cells were developed in

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1954 by Bell Laboratories. They called it a “solar battery” but it was too expensive tomarket for common use. However, during the 1960s, the space program began todevelop solar technology to power the early spacecraft. The space programsdeveloped the technology, improving reliability and reducing cost. By the 1970s,solar energy was gaining in popularity as a possible everyday source of electricity. What Are Solar Panels Made Of?While a solar panel looks like black glass, crisscrossed with bands of tin foil in analuminum frame, it's more complicated. Photovoltaic solar cells are actually made ofsemiconductor materials, like silicon. Mounting a number of these solar cells into a support frame is what makes up asolar panel. Solar panels are designed to supply certain voltages of electricity,commonly 12 volt and 24 volt systems. The amount of current depends on howmuch sunlight shines on the panel; thus, solar panels will create more electricity onsunny days than on cloudy days. Multiple solar panels can be wired together into anarray. Generally, the larger the panel or array, the more electricity it will be produced,thus increasing solar panel efficiency. Types of PanelsDepending on who the manufacturer is, there are different types of technology andmethods used in creating solar panels. Thin Film Thin Film (TF) solar panels have all but been retired from the market. However, ifyou find a company offering super low prices, check to make sure that they are notthe TF type. There is nothing wrong with thin film solar panels. They are a breeze tomanufacture, are compatible in price with newer models and have good efficiency.However, just like old model cars that are no longer built, it will be tough to findreplacements in the future. If the manufacturer (usually based in China) decides tofold from lack of sales, you could run into problems with warranties or replacements. Crystalline Silicon Solar PanelsMaking up 92% of the solar panel market today, crystalline silicon is the newest formof solar panels available. There are two types of crystalline silicon models available.

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Polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar panels both serve to collect energy fromthe sun and transform it into electricity. They are both comprised of the samematerials. Either polycrystalline or monocrystalline solar panels could be a goodchoice for your home, but there are differences between the two types of solarpanels. You need to understand these differences before purchasing your solarpanels and installing them on your home. The primary difference between the two kinds of solar panels is the type of siliconsolar cell used; a monocrystalline solar panel uses solar cells manufactured from asingle crystal of silicon. Polycrystalline solar panels use solar cells manufacturedfrom multiple fragments of silicon melted together.

Polycrystalline solar panelsPolycrystalline solar panels are not much different that mono and multi-crystallinepanels but they do have a lower silicon purity making them a tad less effectivethan monocrystalline panels. However, the advantage is they are less expensive.Additionally, polycrystalline solar panel has a blue tint, rather than the black colorof a monocrystalline panel. While polycrystalline panels are made of silicon, rather than using a single crystal,many fragments of silicon are melted together to create the solar cell wafers.Since there are multiple silicon crystals in each solar cell, the electrons have lessmovement. This results in lower efficiency than monocrystalline solar panels.

Like the multi-Si, poly panels also need additional square footage to deem thesame results as more compact models. Many homeowners also find the polypanels less attractive than the mono-Si and the multi-Si. However, there are manymanufacturers that prefer polycrystalline in their process and providing long-lasting durability. Mono and multi crystalline solar panelsMonocrystalline solar panels are considered the superior type of solar panel. Theprimary advantage of a monocrystalline panel is increased solar efficiency. To manufacture a solar cell for a monocrystalline solar panel, the silicon is made

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into bars then sliced into thin wafers. This type of panel is called “monocrystalline”because the silicon is single-crystal silicon. Since the solar cell is made from asingle crystal, the electrons that create the flow of electricity have moremovement. Consequently, monocrystalline panels have more efficiency thanpolycrystalline panels. About the only difference between mono-Si and multi-Si is the price tag. Mono-Sistyles run slightly higher in cost. The multi-Si takes up approximately 10% morespace than the mono-Si. If you are trying to cut back on the amount of spaceused, go with the mono-Si. Also, when compared to efficiency rates, the Mono-Sicame out slightly higher in efficiency than the Mono-Si. A comparison done with2017 prices showed an average 5kW system showed a difference of $1880 vs.$1820. This is not a huge difference, but one that can pinpoint the savings indollars.

AC vs DC and Power InvertersSolar panels produce DC (direct-current) electricity. However, most home appliancesare made to run on AC (alternating-current) electricity. How can you bridge this gap,and make solar work with the appliances you already have? That's where a powerinverter comes in. An inverter will convert the DC electricity produced by your solarpanels to AC electricity that can power the average home. While the main job of a power inverter is to simply transform DC solar power into ACto power your home, it gets a little more complicated. Modern solar power inverterscan perform several functions, including monitoring the solar system forperformance, as well as diagnostic information. Modern solar, inverters can alsomanage your batteries. There are a few different types of solar inverters to choose from. String InvertersSolar panels are commonly installed in rows, called a “string.” As an example, youmight have 20 solar panels in 4 rows of 5 panels each. These multiple strings can beconnected to a single string inverter. However, depending on the number of strings,you may need more than one string inverter.

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String inverters are good for solar installations that don't have shade issues andwhere the solar panels are on a single plane, not facing in different directions.Unfortunately, if just one solar panel is shaded for part of the day, it reduces itsperformance; that means the electrical output of every single panel on that string willbe reduced to the shaded panels’ level. While a string inverter can't deal with shadedpanels, the technology is proven and is less expensive than other systems. Stringinverters are common in residential and commercial solar systems. String Inverters With Power OptimizersPower optimizers can be connected to each of your solar panels; this will enableindependent control of each panel’s power output from the string. This can resolvethe limitations commonly associated with string inverters. If one panel is shaded ornot working properly, the optimizer ensures the other solar panels on the string arenot affected.

Central InvertersSimilar to a string inverter, a central inverter is much larger and able to support moresolar panel strings. Rather than the strings going directly into the inverter, the stringsare wired together into a common combiner box. The DC electricity is then sent tothe central inverter and is converted to AC. Central inverters are best for very largesolar installations that have consistent electrical production across the entire array.

MicroinvertersMicroinverters are a popular choice for both residential and commercial solarinstallations. Microinverters are installed one per solar panel, converting DC to AC atthe panel level. This is an advantage if one or more of your solar panels is shaded,the performance of the other solar panels won’t be affected. Microinverters can alsomonitor individual performance on each panel, while a string inverter will onlymonitor the performance of a string. This can make a microinverter a good choice fora solar installation with shade issues or if some panels are facing different directions,making microinverters more efficient. Battery based inverter/chargers Battery-based inverter/chargers need a battery to operate, and include both aninverter and a battery charger. The main benefit of these inverter/chargers is they

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provide continuous operation for critical loads, no matter what the condition of thepower grid. That means, even if the city power grid goes down, your system will stayup. This inverter will also monitor your battery while regulating how the battery ischarged. Batteries for Home Solar SystemsA solar energy system for your home is unlike the grid in a very important way; theelectricity does not flow directly through the wiring and into the outlets, thus poweringyour stuff; the electricity must be stored in a battery. How much battery do I need, isjust as important a question as to how many solar panels do I need. If you don't haveenough battery to store all the electricity your solar panels produce, that energy maybe wasted. In addition to figuring out the size of battery you will need, you also need to considerthe different types of batteries. When you are considering your solar battery storageoptions, the most important things to consider are the battery’s capacity, the powerrating, depth of discharge, round-trip efficiency, and finally, the battery life andwarranty. Power Rating and Battery CapacityThe capacity is the total amount of electrical power that the battery can store. This ismeasured in kilowatt-hours. Most solar batteries for home use are “stackable.” Thatmeans that you can wire together multiple batteries for extra capacity. While the capacity indicates how big the battery is, it doesn’t indicate how muchelectrical power the battery can produce at a given time. So, you also need to takeinto consideration the battery’s power rating. The power rating is how muchelectricity the battery can deliver at any moment. This is measured in kilowatts. Batteries with high capacity ratings and low power ratings can only provide a lowamount of electricity, only enough for essentials, for an extended period. However,batteries with low capacity ratings and high power ratings can run everything in yourhome, but only for a short time, like a few hours. Depth of Discharge

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Most batteries need to keep some electrical charge at all times. This is due to theirchemical make-up. Unfortunately, if you drain a battery completely, its life will beseriously shortened. The depth of discharge for a battery means the amount of the battery’s capacity thathas been used. As an example, if a 20 kWh battery has a depth of discharge of 90%,that means you shouldn’t use more than 18 kWh from the battery before you shouldrecharge it. Keep in mind, during the day, the battery is constantly being rechargedby the sun. Depth of discharge mainly becomes an issue during the night, or duringperiods of extended cloudy weather. Round-trip EfficiencyRound-trip efficiency means the amount of electricity that can be used, calculated asa percentage of the amount of energy it took for it to be stored. As an example, if youput 10kWh of electricity into the battery but can only get 8kWh of usable electricityout of it, the battery has 80% round-trip efficiency. The higher the round-tripefficiency, the better the value. Battery LifeMost of the time, your battery will charge and drain on a daily basis. Furthermore,the battery’s capacity to hold a charge will also gradually decrease over time. Asyour batteries get older, it won't hold the charge as long as it used to. Solar batteries will have a manufacturer's warranty guaranteeing a certain number ofcharge cycles or years. Since the batteries performance will naturally degrade overthe years, most manufacturers guarantee the battery will keep a certain amount ofcapacity for the course of the warranty. So it's wise to check the warranty, to assurethe battery will have a long life.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?Most people interested in installing a solar system want to produce enough power toget rid of their electricity bills completely. This means, first of all, you need todetermine your household electricity consumption level. You will need to calculatehow many kilowatt-hours you need to keep your home going. That will determine thebest size solar system for your home, and the number of solar panels you will need.

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Most batteries need to keep some electrical charge at all times. This is due to theirchemical make-up. Unfortunately, if you drain a battery completely, its life will beseriously shortened. The depth of discharge for a battery means the amount of the battery’s capacity thathas been used. As an example, if a 20 kWh battery has a depth of discharge of 90%,that means you shouldn’t use more than 18 kWh from the battery before you shouldrecharge it. Keep in mind, during the day, the battery is constantly being rechargedby the sun. Depth of discharge mainly becomes an issue during the night, or duringperiods of extended cloudy weather. Round-trip EfficiencyRound-trip efficiency means the amount of electricity that can be used, calculated asa percentage of the amount of energy it took for it to be stored. As an example, if youput 10kWh of electricity into the battery but can only get 8kWh of usable electricityout of it, the battery has 80% round-trip efficiency. The higher the round-tripefficiency, the better the value. Battery LifeMost of the time, your battery will charge and drain on a daily basis. Furthermore,the battery’s capacity to hold a charge will also gradually decrease over time. Asyour batteries get older, it won't hold the charge as long as it used to. Solar batteries will have a manufacturer's warranty guaranteeing a certain number ofcharge cycles or years. Since the batteries performance will naturally degrade overthe years, most manufacturers guarantee the battery will keep a certain amount ofcapacity for the course of the warranty. So it's wise to check the warranty, to assurethe battery will have a long life.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?Most people interested in installing a solar system want to produce enough power toget rid of their electricity bills completely. This means, first of all, you need todetermine your household electricity consumption level. You will need to calculatehow many kilowatt-hours you need to keep your home going. That will determine thebest size solar system for your home, and the number of solar panels you will need.

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Capacity and Size of Solar PanelsSolar panel size does not determine the output of power. Two panels of the samesize can have different quality solar cells. The age can also play a part in theefficiency. This is why it is so important to know the type of solar panels that amanufacturer is presenting. Buying used panels can also play a role in the capacityof the energy created. Figuring Life SpanThe quality of solar panels can be different. This is why it is so important to deal witha manufacturer that will place a 25-year to 30-year warranty on their solar panels.Without this guarantee you could be looking at solar panels made of poor qualitymaterials. Brands of Solar PanelsIt is impossible for most consumers to know the difference in the quality of solarpanels from looking at them. There are all kinds of brand names for solar panels butthey can be quite different in how they were manufactured. This is where a littleresearch has to be done on your part. Comparing Solar Brands for EfficiencyThere are more than just a few different brands of solar panels these days. Thereare plenty of tools on the internet to help you compare shop when it comes toefficiency, reputation, specifications, and price. Some will show a side-by-sidecomparison of wattage output and solar panel type. Others may include reputationas reported by customers and consumer-related organizations. Picking the Right Solar ManufacturerSolar panel manufacturers can be confusing but there are a few factors that will helpyou make the best choice possible. First of all, find out how long they have been inbusiness. With any type of trend there will be companies popping up and the foldinga few years later. 10 years in business is a good indication that a solar company ishere to stay. Secondly, 16.5% is the magic number in the efficiency output of each panel.Anything less should be questioned.

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Last of all, make sure that the manufacturer has a website and a way to contactthem. They will be issuing a warranty and any problems can be addressed by themas well if you’re unable to get a hold of your installer.

Habits That Can Save You MoreBefore you decide to install a solar energy system, you must first look at yourhousehold's energy usage over the past and future to determine how much poweryou need the system to generate. If this analysis helps you reduce your household'senergy consumption, you can purchase a smaller system and save money. Installing a smart thermostat is one of the easiest and least expensive ways toreduce your heating and cooling costs 10-20% You may also want to consider renovations like installing insulation or a radiantbarrier, replacing old windows and weather-stripping. Even appliances and LED light bulb upgrades can reduce your energy load further.Sit down with the family and discuss your personal habits like unplugging appliancesthat are not in use, turning off lights when you leave the room and using appliancesat maximum efficiency.

Calculating Your Solar Panel EstimateThe first step is to determine how many kilowatt-hours of electricity you used in thelast year. Your electric bills can show you your total electric consumption for the lasttwelve months. If you haven’t lived in the home for 12 months, you could have anelectrical engineer do a load calculation to estimate your usage To give you some perspective, one kWh equals 1,000 watts of electricity used in onehour. That means, if you have 10 light bulbs in your house and they all are 100watts, leaving every light on for one hour would use one kWh of electricity. The U.SEnergy Information Administration data for 2016 estimated the average Americanhome used 898 kWh per month. That's around 11,000 kWh per year. The most difficult part of determining the size of a solar system is estimating theannual energy use for your home. Also, the number of large appliances, such as

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refrigerators and air conditioners, can significantly change the annual kilowatt-hours.If you add large energy-sucking appliances, you will need to add more panels. Ifyou’re running air conditioning or add a heated swimming pool to your backyard, thesize of the solar system you need could be dramatically altered. Likewise, chargingthe battery of your electric vehicle can also put a serious drain on your solar panelsystem.

How many solar panels you will need can also depend on your location. Forinstance, we can compare Maine and Arizona’s production ratios for solar panels,1.61 and 1.31, the lowest and the highest for the United States. You can take that11,000 kWh average and divide it by the ratios, 1.61 and 1.31. Then divide thatnumber by 280, which is the typical solar panel wattage for home use. That will giveyou the highest and lowest numbers for how many solar panels you will need.

How Many Kilowatt Hours (kWh) Can Solar Panels Produce?The amount of (kWh) a solar system can produce depends on the level of sunexposure your roof gets. Furthermore, the amount of sun you get every year willdepend on where you live in the country, and the time of year as well. For example,Arizona has more sunny days every year than Massachusetts. However, in bothlocations, you will be able to produce enough electricity with the sun to cover yourneeds. If you happen to live in a place that gets less sunshine, you just need toinstall a larger system with more panels at your house. Let's say two comparable households in Arizona and Massachusetts consume thesame average amount of electricity, around 10,400 kWh annually. The Arizonahousehold will need a 7.0 kWh solar system to cover their energy needs. However,the household in Massachusetts will need an 8.8 kWh solar system to cover all oftheir energy needs. Solar systems in Arizona are smaller than the solar system inMassachusetts but can produce the same amount of energy. That's because thesolar panels are exposed to more sun every year. People in less sunny areas, suchas Massachusetts, can compensate for this difference simply by using more solarpanels, or more efficient solar panels. This will increase the number of solar panelson their roofs.

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First, you'll need to determine the best way to mount your solar panels, to maximizethe amount of sunshine they can collect. Latitude TiltThe tilt angle of your solar panels is important to maximize your solar panelefficiency and energy output. Where you live will determine the best tilt angle foryour solar panels. In order for solar panels to collect sunlight more efficiently, thepanels need to be angled facing the sun as close as possible. The solar cells willproduce more energy when the angle of the sun’s rays strike the panel's surface asdirectly as possible. For most homes in the U.S., the best angle for a solar panel is close to or equal tothe latitude of the south-facing roof. For example, if your house is on the twenty-five-degree latitude, your solar panels need to be tilted twenty-five degrees towards thesun. After the twenty-five-degree latitude mark, add five degrees tilt for everyadditional five degrees of latitude. However, after forty degrees latitude, you need toadd twenty degrees of tilt to your latitude. That math sounds confusing, so here are some examples:25 degrees latitude = 25 degree tilt30 degrees latitude = 40 degree tilt35 degree latitude = 50 degree tilt55 degree latitude = 75 degree tilt Also note, the angle of tilt applies both to roof-mounted and ground-mounted solarpanels. Roof Mounted Solar PanelsRoof mounting your solar panels is a good option if your roof is in good condition,and gets a lot of sun exposure. For roof-mounted solar panels, mounting them on asouth-facing roof is best to receive the most sun. A west-facing roof could work too.Flat roofs, or roofs with a low slope, can use tilt brackets to achieve the right tiltangle. Solar Panels and Possible Roof Damage

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Many people are concerned about roof damage when installing solar panels. Solarsystem installation can typically last for 30 years or more; it's important that yourpanels don’t damage your roof. However, roof damage from a solar panel installationis very rare. Roof damage shouldn't be an issue, as long as your roof is in goodcondition, and your solar installer is a qualified professional. Usually, roof damageoccurs when a roof was in poor condition, to begin with. If you're concerned aboutpossible roof damage, it's wise to have a roof inspection before your solarinstallation. To prevent water damage, solar installers take some common precautions, such asthe bolts holding the solar panel mounts are surrounded with metal or plasticflashing. The flashing is then sealed with roofing tar. Likewise, the holes for the lagbolts are also sealed to protect your roof against water damage. Another common concern regarding a solar installation is the additional weight onthe roof. Usually, the weight of the solar panels won't affect the structural integrity ofthe roof. Also, if you live where it snows, solar panels are installed at an angle, sothe snow will just slide off, reducing that weight. Solar Panels and Wind ShearSolar panels are exposed to the worst weather your area can dish out, including thepossibility of hurricane-force wind. Many local jurisdictions, along the Gulf Coastespecially, require solar installations to withstand winds up to 160 mph. Unfortunately, the wind blowing between the roof and the panels can cause “uplift.”However, roof-mounted solar panels are racked up a few inches above the roof, withhardware designed to overcome uplift. These mounting systems use large lag boltsscrewed directly to the roof beams, then are sealed to prevent leakage. Ground Mounted Solar PanelsMounting your solar panels on the roof is generally the first option most homeownersthink of. However, ground mount solar panels are just as cost-effect and perhapseven easier. In fact, many times ground-mounted solar panels are your best option. Often, ground mount solar panels can cost a little more than roof-mounted solar

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panels per-watt. This is because there may be additional permits and labor costs forthis type of installation. However, if your house isn’t ideally situated for rooftop solarpanels, or if your roof isn't up to par, a ground-mounted solar system may actuallysave you money. If your roof doesn’t face south, isn’t at the right angle, or has large trees shading it,then a ground-mounted solar system may be in order. Ground-mounted solar can belocated anywhere on the property where the sun conditions are best. Also, if yourhousehold uses a lot of power, your roof may not be large enough for a solar systemthat will meet your needs. A ground-mounted solar system can easily be sizedwithout the space restriction of a roof. There are two types of ground-mounted solar systems: Standard Ground MountsThese use metal frames dug into the ground, which holds the solar panels at a fixedangle. A few standard ground-mounted systems can be adjusted manually to movewith the seasonal movements of the sun. Pole Mounted or Structural MountsThese can support multiple panels and can elevate them higher above the groundthan the standard ground mount. A pole-mounted solar system can often incorporatea tracking system, which will tilt the solar panels automatically to collect the optimumamount of sun. In fact, these tracking systems can increase solar panel efficiency by more than25%. You have the option of a single-axis or a dual-axis tracking system. A single-axis tracking system will rotate your solar panels during the day, following the sundawn to dusk. A dual-axis tracking system will also adjust the panel tilt angleaccording to seasonal variation. Structural Mounts are the ones that can suit dual purposes such as a shaded carport or any other type of shade structure. Even if your home rooftop is suitable for a solar energy system, a ground-mounted

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solar panel system may be a better choice. First of all, ground-mounted solar systems can be easily installed on any open spaceon the property. It also doesn’t require drilling holes in your roof. Likewise, astandard ground mount system is relatively lightweight and can be easily moved,allowing it to be taken with you. Second, ground-mount solar systems can be much more productive than a rooftopsolar system. Since they’re not dependent on the tilt of your roof, a ground-mountedsystem is always at the perfect angle for optimum productivity. That means it willgenerate more electricity than the same size roof solar system. Lastly, ground-mounted solar panels are easy to clean and maintain. You won't haveto climb up on the roof, a simple ladder may be sufficient. If you live where it snows alot in the winter, that means you will be able to sweep the snow off easily and safely. The cost of a standard ground-mounted solar system is usually more than a roof-mounted solar system. However, if you also want to install a tracking system, thatwill be an additional cost. But the added energy production a tracking system canproduce can make it cost-effective in the end.

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CHAPTER 3: THE PROCESS OF GOING SOLAR

Going solar on your home can be a complicated and long project that cansometimes last several weeks before you system is installed and operational. Although the installation itself can usually be completed in 1-2 days, things like netmetering applications, permits, and inspections can prolong the project. Let’s startbe reviewing the process of going solar from the very beginning.

What Are the Steps Involved In Going Solar?No matter where you are in the process of going solar, it’s important to keep a fewthings in mind. You don’t have to follow these steps to the letter, and they may beout of order a bit. The key thing is that you do adequate research to find not only thebest solar company in your area, but also to learn exactly what you are getting intoand what options are available to you. The Research PhaseAre you a homeowner? If this is the case, that’s a definite plus. It’s much easier tosign up for solar power when you’re the owner of the property. You won’t have tojump through hoops to get approval from your landlord, and there won’t be a middle-man when it comes to choosing the type of system and progress for the work. This isn’t the only issue at stake. Not all states provide solar energy in all locations,and your house needs to meet certain criteria. A good candidate for solar power meets the following requirements:

Has a roof age that is no older than 5-10 years. This is because it is much moreexpensive to buy a roof replacement when you get your solar panels. It can costanywhere from $500-2,000 to do so, since it is labor-intensive.The roof should be comprised of common roof materials such as shingles orconcrete tile. Even though you can technically get solar panels on a roof that’smade of asphalt, foam, or rubber membrane, it does cost much more. Asexpected, roofs that have too steep of a pitch will be more expensive.The orientation of the roof is best when it is due south, although it’s possible toinstall them on roofs facing west-southwest or east-southeast. These mountingplans are less efficient.

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There should be no shade on the roof, or a very small amount. Obviously, shadekills a solar panel’s output. If you have a traditionally-wired system, output may bereduced for an entire string of panels when there’s shade on just one part.

Schedule a Cost EstimateYes, this sounds like the easy part. However, it’s a bit more complicated than youprobably think. You reach out to solar companies and ask for their quotes. The numbers shouldspeak for themselves, right? That’s not necessarily the case. You need to give the installer some informationabout your house, and know whether or not you’re getting a good price quote fromthem. This needs to include all aspects of the cost, such as the panels/system,installation, and any additional fees that may come up. The price you should expect is determined by a number of things, all of which a goodinstallation company will explain when they give you a quote. Here’s what the quoteshould encompass:

Roof assessment - The installer may use an assessment tool, which determineshow much space there is available for panels, as well as the amount of sun theywill receive.Production assessment - The numbers that they get when doing the roofassessment will allow them to estimate the amount of power the panels willproduce each year.Installation cost - The cost for Installation will be shown in dollars-per-watt, withan average price of $3.00-4.00 per watt in the United States. Of course, thisdepends on your roof, how large the installation is, and your state, among otherthings.Make and model - Any good quote will include the make, model, and number ofeach of the system’s components (panels, racks, inverter).Incentives - There may be incentives available to you. Your quote should discussstate and federal incentives you may receive based on your situation. At aminimum, you are likely to get the federal solar tax credit. This will reduce

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the homeowner’s tax bill by 30% of the system’s cost.Payback estimate - The installer likely will tell you how long it’s going to take toget your initial investment back, as well as the amount you’ll save over thelifespan of the panels.

Make sure that you also talk about how much it can cost to remove the panels if youneed to do a re-roof within 10-15 years. Design and PermitsThe installation company will take care of this part. After you’ve agreed on a priceand the system you’d like, it then goes to an engineering team. The installationcompany also will apply for incentives that may be available from the utility company. If it’s necessary to get any permits from the city, the installer will apply for them. Theonly thing you’re responsible for at this time is to make a billing arrangement throughthe utility company. Some of them require solar owners to get on a time-of-use planor sign up to get special rates. The time-of-use plan is meant to record energy thathas been consumed and exported. InstallationYou’re almost ready to go! When it’s time for solar panel installation, you’re sure tofeel a sense of accomplishment and pride. You’re doing your part to both savemoney, and have a smaller environmental footprint. Luckily, this is a quick process. Solar installers have streamlined the task enough tokeep it to a few hours, in most cases. After you approve the design and schedule theday you want it done, it doesn’t take long to get an installation team on premises.This will consist of the specialized solar technicians and an electrician. Theelectrician will make sure the system is sound, and that it is able to send electricity tothe inverter. InterconnectionAfter the installation, you may think it’s as simple as turning the system on. There’sanother step usually, and that is getting the system connected to the grid.

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Many utilities and jurisdictions have an easier process today that makes it faster tohave the solar system assessed and connected. This can take a few days up to afew weeks. An inspector from the utility company will come in to have a look at the system. Theyneed to verify that certain hardware is present, such as an emergency disconnectswitch. Also, they’ll need to see that all the wiring was done to code.

My System Is Up and Running, What Happens Now? MonitoringOnce your system is up and running, you will want to monitor it for any productionproblems that may occur. Though solar panels require little maintenance if properlyinstalled, like any other system, it should be checked on a routine basis to make sureit is operating at peak performance. The inverter is the main hub where direct current (DC) coming from your panels isconverted to the usable (AC) alternating current which is the electricity that powersyour home and this is usually the most common point of failure. You can find out exactly how much energy is being generated by the monitoringsystem. Micro-inverters have data available through either an application that can beaccessed on a smart device or through a website your provider has set up to see theinverter data. String inverters may have a separate monitoring service or device. If this is not available, you can check the inverter itself to calculate energyproduction. MaintenanceIf you’re like us, you don’t want to be fussing over appliances and prefer the luxury ofplug and play, but maintaining solar panels is fairly easy to do as they do not requirea lot of attention. Debris such as dirt, bird droppings and general grime can affect the performance of

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your panels, so it is worth noting that they should be checked regularly to make surethere is no build up of dirt or obstructive substances on them. The great thing about solar systems is they don't have a bunch of moving parts like agenerator or more mechanical power systems. Less parts mean maintenance andcleaning are much easier. In most cases however, rainfall can provide most of the cleaning required. Ways to Clean PanelsThis is a pretty straightforward process. Basically, water and a mild small amount ofsoap is all that is needed. Washing the panels with a standard garden hose is all thatis needed if there is minor debris on the panels. Don't power blast them. The idea isto be gentle. If the grime or dirt is a little heavier, some soapy water and sponge willwork. Make sure to rinse excess soap off the panels through so it doesn't leave afilm. I am not so keen on heights so I prefer to have my panels cleaned byprofessionals. There are an abundance of cleaners that offer competitive rates socheck around for someone who has experience in working with solar panels. Roof LeaksPesky leaks can become a big problem with solar panels. Rain can get into panelsthat have not been installed properly, or ones that have become damaged due to theowner’s actions or natural causes. Maintenance of solar energy systems involves paying attention to the weather whereyou live. If you reside somewhere with severe weather conditions such as hail andhurricanes, you should be prepared for the consequences and seek insurance thatcovers such issues. You don't want to be left with seriously damaged equipment forlong. Don't leave it up to chance - if natural disaster protection is not specificallymentioned in the insurance or warranty, make it a point to ask as many questions asyou need to feel comfortable. If a panel(s) breaks, especially if a bit of time goes by before you notice it, the energyoutput can decrease by a great deal. In the event there’s damage due to no fault ofyour own, there’s a good chance you have a warranty in place to cover it. Most of

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these warranties only last for up to 10 years. Contact the installation company rightaway to find out if repairs/replacement is covered and what to do next. Homeowners Insurance and Solar PanelsBecause solar systems are a large and valuable investment, making sure that yourinvestment receives the same attention as your home itself will give you peace ofmind should they get damaged by a natural disaster or other type of damagingincident such as a fire. Most homeowner insurance policies cover solar systems. If your panels are covered,great! If they aren't, then you will need a separate policy or add-on. The panels aregenerally considered as a permanent attachment to your home. It is a good idea toinquire with your insurance provider as to the extent of coverage and if there areparticular incidents where they may not be insured. Because of the cost of the solar power system, coverage amount of your home mayneed to be increased which can affect your premium. There are some systems like ground-mounted panels that might require a separatepolicy. Your policy type will dictate whether it is necessary to get this add-oninsurance. Large systems may require their own policy for adequate coverage. Again, it is advisable to check with your particular insurance company to see whatcoverage is provided based on the type of system you own.

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CHAPTER 4: CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOLAR

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If you're read this far, you probably have already decided to go solar or it's a seriousconsideration. Either way, congratulations! You're about to reap many great benefits. This includes saving money, boosting yourproperty value, and contributing to one of the fastest growing industries in the UnitedStates. To get started, you'll need to hire a solar energy installer. So how do you choose theright one? A quality solar energy installer will explain the benefits of switching to solar energy inyour specific location. But that's only the start of what a reputable solar installeroffers. Even after tax credits and rebates, putting a solar system on your home stillcosts money. The system should also stay in place for 25 years or more. Therefore,you'll want to make sure you're getting the best deal and highest level of qualitypossible. Some solar installers are self-employed and do not work directly for themanufacturer. This can be a good thing in finding someone locally. If there are anyinstallation problems, you know that they are close by. A good installer does notnecessarily have to be NABCEP-certified, but they should be able to produce sometype of training by a credible solar organization. Your brother's friend, Joe, would not be a good choice if he has no references orcustomer reviews. Get a promised production rate and hold them to it. Make surethey have a system for tracking and will send you regular results. Last of all, checkout their current customer service because you need to know that your installer willbe there if your system fails. So of the hundreds of solar installers in the country, what makes a company the“best?” Your selection should be based on a variety of factors, including theirwarranty, rates, customer service, work history, and even consumer reviews.

Why Worry About a Warranty?Today's solar PV systems are designed to last 25 years or more. Before adding any

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solar to your property, you'll want to make sure to get warranty coverage in case apart breaks due to improper installation or technical problems. Otherwise, it may bevery expensive to fix. The best solar companies offer full warranties. They will alsoexplain the differences among the warranties and why they're important. Manufacturer vs Workmanship vs Production There are generally three types of warranties available that cover a solar system; amanufacturer warranty, a workmanship warranty, and a production warranty. Manufacturer WarrantyA manufacturer warranty covers the technical components of the solar energysystem itself. This warranty breaks down into two smaller components, which are aperformance warranty and an equipment warranty. Although the average solar PVsystem lasts 25 years or longer, its production capacity naturally declines with age.The production warranty normally guarantees a production output of 90% for the first10 years and 80% percent for the remaining 15 years. The equipment warrantyguarantees that the system's parts will continue to work properly for the first 10-12years after installation. Collectively, the two types of manufacturer's warranty protectagainst wear and tear, environmental problems like rusting or wind damage, andmanufacturing flaws that compromise the component's function. When choosing asolar energy installer, it's best to look for a company that offers a longer warranty forproduction and components. Be sure to ask about what manufacturing company theinstaller plans to use, as companies differ in the warranty length that they offer.

Panel Manufacturer WarrantyWhether they're mounted to the roof, placed on the ground, or form a carport in aparking lot, solar panels have the same duty. Their job is to collect energy fromthe sun and pass it along to the inverter, which then converts that energy intoelectricity to power your home. Solar panel warranties typically last for 25 years.However, the expected production capacity of the panels and their anticipatedlifespan varies by manufacturer. By the end of 25 years, most panels aredesigned to operate at 80% of their original capacity. Their production graduallydeclines by less than one percent each year. In addition to offering a warranty forthe panels, a manufacturer should also include a production warranty that willreplace a panel if its production capacity falls below the expected rate.

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Inverter Manufacturer WarrantyThe inverter is the part of the PV system that converts direct energy from the suninto electricity that is used to power appliances in your home. While solar panelscan last up to 25 years, inverters quite often have a shorter lifespan. It's notuncommon for a solar system owner to replace two inverters throughout thecourse of the system's lifespan. At a minimum, most manufacturers will guaranteean inverter's performance for 5-10 years. Some offer 12-year warranties, while asmall handful provide warranties for up to 25 years. Mounting Hardware WarrantyOf course, your solar energy system needs something to hold it together. That'sjust what the mounting hardware, although seemingly insignificant, does for 25years. Over time, it's possible for these parts to rust, break, or suffer general wearand tear. Whether they are attached to the inverters, the panels, or anothersurface on your system, they may need to be replaced periodically. As with thepanels and inverters, warranty for the mounting hardware varies. Warrantiescover parts for a minimum of five years, while others offer coverage for 10, 15, 20years or more. Check with your solar installer to see what type of warranty themanufacturer provides

Workmanship WarrantyA workmanship warranty, covers the solar installer's work. This includes all workrelated to the design, construction, and installation of the solar system. A good solarenergy company will have a workmanship warranty that ranges from one to tenyears. Some companies also offer operation and maintenance services, whichinclude ongoing care for your system after installation. You may get a warranty forthese services too, although that warranty is sometimes provided in a separatecontract. Production WarrantySimilar to the warranty from the panel manufacturer, a production warranty isnormally provided by the installer. A production warranty guarantees the amount of electricity the solar system willproduce in any given year. If at the end of the year, that guaranteed amount isn’t

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produced, the installer will write a check to the system owner for the shortfall inproduction at a predetermined rate. The primary benefit of this is that the installer is incentivized to resolve any sort ofproduction issue immediately since they will be paying for any under production. Although, a panel manufacturer has a production warranty as well and will replaceany issues with a faulty panel, they’re not on the hook for the overall systemproduction and are not in a hurry to replace any non-functioning panel.

Roof ProtectionIf you're planning to have a solar energy system installed on your roof, it is importantto make sure the roof will support the solar system for the duration of its lifespan. The average roof lasts from 15 to 30 years. A PV system lasts about 25. If the roof ismore than halfway through its lifespan at the time you decide to get a solar energysystem, it may need to be replaced. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) guidelines recommend onlyinstalling a PV system on a roof with at least 25 years left. If you're not quite ready toreplace the roof yet, be sure to ask about getting a quote for the cost of removingand replacing the panels from your selected installer. Keep in mind that this fee willbe added on to the cost of the roof replacement itself. Even if you decide to forego a roof replacement when you install the solar PVsystem, a solar installer should perform a thorough roof assessment. This includeschecking the roof for structural problems that might affect the roof's ability to hold theweight of the PV system. An assessment will also check for leaks and other issuesthat make the roof less capable of supporting a solar system's weight. Most leaks and other issues caused by an improperly installed solar energy systemare covered for at least 10 years by the installer. Consumer Reports guides homeowners to resources for finding a solar energyinstaller. This includes listings for each state on the NRCA, the Solar Energy

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Industries Association (SEIA), and the National Board of Certified EnergyPractitioners.

Customer Service IssuesOver the course of 25 years, it is quite possible that you'll encounter problems withyour roof, the PV system, or both. Then, that leaves the question of who to call forrepairs? Generally, the first person who you should call is the installer. The installer has anintimate knowledge of the solar system and can make any repairs to ensure it’sworking properly or if it’s a non system issue like a roof leak, they can coordinate therepairs with the roofing contractor. You want to make sure the installer you use has dedicated customer service team tohelp address any issues you may have with your system.

Are They Experienced?Another essential quality that solar installers should have is experience. The solarenergy industry attracts individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds.Sometimes, this includes contractors and sub-contractors who previously focused onone area of construction but later switched to residential solar installations. Some companies broadcast their “experience” as a seemingly large number ofyears. However, this number sometimes includes experience working in areas ofconstruction or home improvements that are not actually related to solar energy.When you start interviewing solar energy companies, be sure to ask specificallyabout their experience related to solar installations. This includes asking about the number of solar installations they've done andrequesting to see a sample or portfolio of their past work. Check for Proper Licenses and CertificationsBefore you ask for samples of past work, recommendations, quotes or anything else,be sure to ask if the company you want to hire has all requisite current licenses andcertifications. Every company formed in 2002 or later should hold a certification by

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the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Thisorganization holds the highest standards for certification by which the solar energyindustry abides. Ideally, every member of a solar energy installer who performs workon your property should have a NABCEP license. But at the very least, it's importantto make sure that an individual with a NABCEP certification checks the systeminstallation before the solar array gets up and running. If you're wondering “what do the solar providers near me need to work on myhouse?”, we have the answers. Along with the national NABCEP license, solarinstallers may need to have other state and local licenses as well. This can include ageneral contracting license, electrical license, home improvement certificate, or ahome performance contractor's license. While you're checking an installer's licensesand credentials, ask about their insurance coverage too. At a minimum, they shouldall have general liability insurance.

Look for Glowing ReviewsToday, just about every consumer takes to social media or the internet to rant orrave about an experience as a customer. Before you take the first step in contactinga solar energy installer, it is quite helpful to search for the company online or throughsocial media. This will give you a fast and accurate analysis of whether people aresatisfied with their work, customer service, warranties, and other critical information.If you can, try to search a few different sites to get a good overview of the company'sreputation.

Ask for ReferencesNow, you might be wondering, “who have the solar providers near me helped?”Fortunately, you should be able to ask any company who you're considering hiringfor a portfolio of their past work. A good solar energy company will have a portfolioready to proudly show off. Along with seeing samples of their past work, ask a solarenergy provider for customer references. A company who has successfully installeda solar array in the past will gladly provide contact information for you to contact pastcustomers. Their willingness to provide this information also indicates the quality oftheir customer service and their commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction downthe road.

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Request a ConsultationBefore any company starts work on your property, you'll want to know how much itwill cost. Ideally, you should get a quote from at least three companies. However,many people get quotes from at least five companies. This gives you a goodindication of the going installation rate in your area. With the availability of web-based resources, it is easy to find the the average cost of a solar installation. In2019, the average was $3.26 per watt nationwide, or $11,410 per 5kW system.However, local variables like utility provider and electricity prices influence the finalcost.

Finance OptionsAlong with providing a quote, the best solar energy companies will happily discussfinancing options with you, too. This includes giving you the option to own or leasethe solar energy system. Taking out a loan, says the US Office of Energy Efficiency& Renewable Energy, is the best option if you don't have the upfront cash required topay off the cost of the system. Getting a loan saves you anywhere from 40% to 70%off the system's cost. Another method of payment is called a Power PurchaseAgreement (PPA). With this payment structure, the solar installer owns the solarsystem, even though it is located on your property. Choosing a PPA doesn't requirepaying for the solar energy system. However, it means that you won't quality forincentives and tax credits. Usually, the installer holds the rights to electricityproduced by the system. The homeowner then buys the electricity from the installerto cover the utility bills. A reputable installer will tell you about the current rebates, tax credits, and incentivesthat can lower the upfront and overall cost of the solar system.

Where to Find a Solar Energy ProviderSometimes, you'll have the advantage of locating a solar provider through a referralor customer recommendation. But if you're having trouble finding an installer in yourarea, there are great resources to help you locate an installer. One is the databasemaintained by SEIA. This database provides a state-by-state breakdown of certifiedsolar energy installers. Most installers have their contact information and websitesposted on SEIA, making it easy to contact them right away.

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Going solar is a great decision for your wallet, the environment, and theneighborhood. But there's also a lot to consider as you're making the switch.Approaching the installation with prior knowledge and knowing how to evaluate aprospective installer goes a long way in ensuring your satisfaction as a solar energycustomer.

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CHAPTER 5: FREQUENTLY ASKED

QUESTIONS

If the concept of solar energy has always intrigued you, it can become a reality.Many homeowners are confused by the terms and how solar panels really work.Much has changed in the world of solar power. This form of green energy is now powering many areas that were once ruled byutility companies and high rates. The one question that continues to come up is "aresolar panels worth it?" Take the time to read through this question and answer section and discover whysolar power is the ultimate answer to clean and affordable energy.

Understanding Solar Power Solar power is misunderstood by many people because it has not been around aslong as other forms of energy. We accept the fact that vehicles operate on acombustible engine and that chips in our computers make them operate. Solarpower can be a little complex because we have not yet grown comfortable with theconcept. However, it is much simpler to understand than other things that we take forgranted in our lives. Q. What is solar power? A. Solar power is a type of technology that is able to collect and control the energyproduced by the sun. This next part is where many people get lost. Solar panels, orphotovoltaic cells, are comprised of semiconductor materials. Sunlight is able to jarloose the enclosed electrons from the atoms. As these electrons travel through eachcell, electricity is produced. You don't have to be a scientist to wrap your mind around this. There are manytypes of electronics that we use that use the same concept. Computer chips thatpower computers, calculators and even cars use technology that is hard tounderstand. We may not know exactly how it works, but we know that it does.

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QUESTIONS

Storing Solar Power Before utility companies accepted the fact that solar power was not going away,there was nowhere to store solar power to turn the lights on. You could only use theenergy as long as the sun was shining. Today, utility companies offer far moresavings than investing in batteries. Q. Do I have to store my solar power? A. In earlier days, it was necessary to store your solar power for later use. Today,batteries are not as feasible. Utility companies will buy back your excess solar powerand store in their electric grid. The earnings show up as a credit on your electric bill. Q. What if I need back-up power during an outage? A. You can add a battery to your solar system for back-up power. This fact needs tobe stated at the time you purchase your solar panels. There are different types ofsystems and they have to be compatible with a battery storage option. The cost for adding a battery as a back-up feature is more than using a generator.However, if you are worried about greenhouse gas, you should consider a battery. Q. Can I go off-grid by using batteries? A. Most solar panels made today are for use in conjunction with feeding back to yourelectric company's grid. There are solar systems that are designed to provideenough power to run independently, but the cost can run into tens of thousands ofdollars.

History of Solar Power If we had followed through with solar power when it was first discovered, the worldmight be a different place today. There are currently entire countries that rely onsolar power because it is more sufficient and easier to come by than fossil fuels.

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QUESTIONS

Here is a little history on the beginning of solar power. Q. Does solar power have a traceable history? A. Believe it or not, solar power has been in existence since 1839. AlexandreEdmond Becquerel, was a French physicist that discovered photovoltaic effect.Becquerel was 19 years old. Simply put, he was able to create electricity by usingthe sun's rays with a conductor. Also known as the Becquerel Effect, the use ofknowledge was not realized for a century. An American engineer, Russell Ohl, is credited for patenting the solar cell and it wasproduced commercially by Bell Laboratories in 1954. However, the cost was soprohibitive that the idea fell by the wayside.

Codes and Standards of Solar Power As solar power becomes more popular, it was determined that rules and regulationsneeded put into place to protect the rights of property owners, additions andneighbors. Always check with your local government to make sure that you arefollowing the codes and standards in your area before deciding on solar panels. Q. What are solar easements? A. As with any type of property, solar systems come under a solar easement statute.A registration process is the normal course of action when adding solar power. Thisbasically puts close neighbors on notice that solar power is being installed. Solarpanels in new construction have to be reviewed and approved before building beginsin some additions. Q. What are solar access rights? A. Uniformity in a community or neighborhood are taken seriously by governingorganizations. After all, no one wants a pink house next to their red cedar sidedhome. Placing solar panels on a roof where other homes do not have them is oftenseen as a problem. Instead of forbidding the use of solar power, some

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QUESTIONS

neighborhood rules have been relaxed to include solar panels, but only in certainlocations.

Being Able to Afford Solar Power It may not be as difficult to finance solar panels and installation as you oncebelieved. Many incentives and creative financing is now being offered bygovernment and financial institutions. Q. What is the cost of going solar? A. The biggest drawback to going solar is the price tag. While there have been hugereductions in the cost of material, scraping up $20,000 to $30,000 is still a big chunkof money. Currently, there is a 30% tax credit that can be applied to having solarpanels installed, but this is due to expire in 2022. Q. Are there financing options available for homeowners wanting to go solar? A. The solar power industry is growing due to the fact that more financial institutionsare recognizing this feature as a home improvement. There are also solarcompanies called full-service solar developers that offer financing as well asinstallation. Solar loan agreements are becoming popular with financial institutions, solarmanufacturers and some utility companies. The customer is allowed to spread outpayments in order to make easy payments on the equipment and installation costs ofthe system. Customers are able to own the rights to the power and all of theequipment. They are also responsible for any upkeep as if the project were alreadytheirs. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) shares the solar system with the contractor.The contractor bears most of the costs of installation and operation. The customer isallowed to make payments toward the solar system. A fixed rate of payment isdecided upon, usually lower than the amount of the existing electrical kw rate. Acontract can run for 10 to 25 years. At the end of the contract the customer can

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QUESTIONS

either buy the solar energy system, renew the contract or have the equipmentremoved. Q. Where can I find incentives for going solar? A. The best place to find incentives in your state is to visit the Database of StateIncentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE). Programs available to homeownersare listed by state and further by the company offering the incentive.

Maintenance and Life Expectancy of Solar Panels Solar roof panels are easy to care for. Maintenance is practically nil and solar panelcompanies are very generous with their warranties. It is just a matter of making surethat sunlight is never blocked. Q. Are solar panels safe? A. All solar panels are required to be tested and to meet international standards.Further, the installation process is performed by licensed electricians that have tomeet local building, fire, and electrical codes. Q. Do solar systems ever fail? A. Just like any other mechanical piece of equipment, a solar system can becomeprivy to a problem. Knowing where to look and what to do to repair is the job oftrained technicians. While many problems occur from a fault during installation withconnections, some parts become dirty or worn and need replacing. By pinpointingthe failure route, a solid connection can be restored. Q. How long do solar panels last? A. Solar panels are normally warranted for 25 years. While many will last longer thanthis period of time, the power output could begin to decrease. This does not meanthat you must have them replaced. You can still enjoy free power only at adecreased output.

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QUESTIONS

Q. What can a consumer do to extend the efficiency of solar panels? A. There is no simple answer to how long do solar panels last. The weather, whereyour home is located and what type of debris blocks the sun are all factors inkeeping panels operating at ultimate power. Manufacturers base the estimate of 25years on the panel output, not the material. The material is timeless with a little helpfrom you. Keep limbs and leaves swept away from the solar panels. Occasionally, wash downwith water to remove any dirt that can be blocking the sun. Very little maintenance isrequired to protect solar panels. However, if a decrease in power is seen, call atechnician right away. The problem may lie with the panels or in a connection to yoursystem.

Impact on the Planet We hear a lot about green energy these days. However, the fact is that as long asfossil fuels are used to generate power, we will always have pollution that causesdamage to the ozone layer. Solar power is a form of green energy that not onlysupplies our needs, but protects the earth. Q. Why is solar power better for the planet? A. Solar power is a renewable source of natural power. This means that whateverwe take in the form of energy will be replaced. The same cannot be said forelectricity or gas. Most power plants that create electricity rely on coal that releasescarbon emissions. Gas comes from fossil fuels that are piped or fracked, upsettingthe natural order of the earth. No one knows what the future impact will be bydisturbing the earth's natural balance.

Increased Home Values Homeowners are always open to ideas to increase the worth of their property. Solarpower is the one guaranteed way to bring up your home's value without a lot of

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remodeling. Q. Do solar panels increase the value of my home? A. Most definitely. A study was recently done in California that found a $20,000increase in property value just from having a PV solar system. The return oninvestment is approximately 97%, not counting the savings in energy bills.

Selecting a Solar System Investing in a solar system is not like buying a new car. There are many factors toconsider in receiving the best fit for your home. Only once you have talked to a solarpower professional can you get a good idea on a custom-mounted system. Q. Are all solar systems the same? A. No. There are many factors to consider in choosing a solar system and theinstallation. While cost is a concern, other information needs to be looked at. Thereare over 100 providers of solar panels and each one can be a little different in whattheir product provides. The first thing to look at is the design and size of the solar panel. Second is thedurability and efficiency rating. Make sure there is a good manufacturer's warrantythat will cover any damaged panels. This information is available through manyonline sites for comparison. Once you are sure that you are comparing apples to apples, get an estimate. Thedifference in price may show up in the actual installation or the brand of invertersthat each company uses. There are 3 different types of inverters and many differentmanufacturers. Q. What type of solar panel systems are there? A. There are 3 different types of solar panel systems. Grid-connected systems arethe most common type. An inverter changes the DC power to AC power, which your

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QUESTIONS

home uses, and the power is connected to your power utility's grid. Hybrid systemsrequire batteries that store the power and allows you back-up power. Off-grid solarsystems let you be reliant on batteries for storage and use without the aid of a utilitycompany. However, the additional cost for these special batteries can run upward of$10,000 or more. Q. Do I need to get a physical estimate? A. Absolutely. The design and pitch of your roof will determine how much energy apanel is able to generate. Without taking into consideration the direction of the sun,how your roof is pitched and other variations, it is impossible to receive an accurateestimate. Be prepared for different designs from each company that you contact. Raisequestions as to their reasons for why their design is the best. It could be due toaesthetics or it may be an increase in wattage. Q. Are there solar company reviews? A. Yes, and you should read them. Installation of the right solar panels for your homeis a huge expense. Discovering that there have been past problems with a particularinstaller can cause you to take a second look. Google 'compare solar installers' forcompanies in your area. Q. Are there solar systems for DIYers A. While the concept of solar power may appear fairly simple, there are a lot ofconfusing aspects to the installation. Unless you have been trained and certifiedthrough the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), thisis a job that is better left to the experts.

Solar Myths

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QUESTIONS

There are many myths about solar energy that have been floating around for years.Education is key in understanding what the truth really is. Here are a few popularquestions that are always posed in deciding to invest in solar power. Q. Will cloudy or snowy weather affect how well my solar panels work? A. Just because the sun isn't shining brightly, doesn't mean that it is not there. Theremay be a reduction in the amount of energy that is produced, but not enough toblock the rays. Weather is taken into consideration when you receive a quote.Further, installers are trained to know the exact angle and position required to keepyour panels working at full capacity. Q. Is my area too cold to get much use out of solar panels? A. The temperature has very little to do with the sun's rays. You could live in Floridaor Minnesota and still receive a good flow of energy. In fact, colder temperatures areactually advantageous to solar panels. Electricity flows easier in cold temperatureswhere hot temperatures slow down the amount of power. Q. Will solar panels look unattractive on my roof? A. As solar panels grow in popularity, the look of panels on a roof is becoming amark of prestige. Your home will be noted as a home that has the market value as apriority. Solar panels are also emerging into shingles that are very attractive in usingon a roof. Another option is solar panels on the ground is your property is largeenough. Q. Will solar panels damage my roof? A. Solar panels are not placed directly on a roof so the weight will not be pressingagainst the roofing material. A small opening is left between the roof and the solarpanels to promote air flow. In some cases, solar panels can actually increase the lifeof your roof by protecting the exterior from the elements. Q. Is there a tracking system that follows the sun?

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QUESTIONS

A. While there are tracking systems available for newer models, most people findthat the extra cost is not worth the trouble. Installers are very good at placing panelsat just the right angle to receive the most valuable rays of the sun. Q. What if I decide to move before my loan for solar power is not paid off? A. It does not take long to realize the savings and the return on your investment. Anaverage of 5-12 years is common in getting your money back but immediately youwill be seeing a difference in your home value and your energy savings. Being ableto increase the market price on your home should be more than enough to pay offyour solar system investment. Q. Should I wait for solar power to become more cost efficient? A. Today's prices for solar panels is significant compared to what they were in the1960s. There was also not an option to sell back power to the utility company. Bulkybatteries were an additional cost. Solar energy is not expected to see much moregains in efficiency. They will always be making improvements, but not much in termsof saving you money. Q. What happens if the grid goes down? A. If there is a problem with the power lines that your solar power is tied to, it is arequirement for the utility company to shut down all lines. This is to protect thelinemen that are working to restore power. There is an option to restore your powerby use of a battery. However, there are additional costs involved. There is also new technology available that uses inverters that can be connected toan outdoor outlet. This system creates an independent circuit for use if you aredisconnected from the grid. Ask your installer about SMA inverters that feature asecure power supply (SPS).

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NEXT STEPS

By this point you should have all the basic information you need to understand goingsolar for your home. Since each every home is different and every family uses power differently, there isno way to get an estimate of what it will cost to install a solar system on your homewithout getting more specific information. For example, you may have 2 different families in the exact same floor plan. Familynumber one is young married couple in their 30's (one's a stay at home parent) witha couple of children. Family number 2 is an elderly retired couple that often spendsthe summer in Hawaii. We can guarantee that the electricity usage for these 2 families will be drasticallydifferent. That being said, the next best step would be setup a free consultation with EnlytenEnergy by clicking the button below.

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Ultimate Guide To Solar For Your Home | Enlyten Energy

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