Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need batteries?
A. It depends. In most metropolitan areas where utility supplied power is readily available, batteries are generally unnecessary. However, certain critical systems may require a backup solution for which batteries can be used. Additionally, off-grid systems require batteries to supply power when the solar modules are not producing power
Q. How much does a solar system cost?
A. No one solar solution is the same as another due to the structure, energy consumption, site, etc. Also, the requirements of the home or business owner vary. As such, it is nearly impossible to provide a generalized estimate. On our “Solar Electric” page we do provide a sample system cost. However, to ensure you get your requirements met, we’d prefer to give you a customized proposal that suits your energy requirements. Please note that incentives and rebates are at an all time high and you can pay for half or more of your system cost through these means.
Q. What can I power with a solar system?
A. Anything that you power from other AC or DC electrical sources, from your toaster to your Air Conditioning. Our solutions don’t just power specific appliances, generally the system is wired such that it supplies power to all of the circuits in your home or business; this way any appliance can utilize the clean electricity.
Q. Can I really spin my meter backwards?
A. Yes. While this does depend on the amount of electricity you generate versus how much you consume, if there is excess, the State’s net metering laws require that the utility accept the excess power back into the utility grid. As part of your solar installation, we will also ensure you currently have, or upgrade you to, the correct electrical meter that will track both your consumption and your production that is sold back to the utility.
Q. Can I offset all of my electric usage?
A. It is possible. As previously noted, if you generate as much electricity as you consume, you can virtually eliminate your electric bills and lock in FREE power for the rest of your life.
Q. Will the power company purchase my excess electricity?
A. Net metering agreements generally provide that the power company will give you a credit for the excess electricity that feeds back into the grid. Most of these agreements offset consumption over the course of the year. So, some months you generate excesses which can be credited against your consumption in other months.
Q. Will my technology become outdated?
A. While advances are continually being made in solar technology, it is unlikely that your system will become outdated in the near future. Will technology be better in 10 years? We will definitely see advancements. But if you are waiting for that, in that amount of time you will have achieved a phenomenal rate of return on your investment, attained system payback, and you will be producing free electricity for another 20+ years with the equipment you already have. Additionally, while there are many incentives and rebates available right now, they likely will not be available at some point in the future. Our free Solar Financial Analysis can show you how this works.
Q. Are solar system materials recyclable?
A. The majority of system components are metals and glass which are easily recyclable. While the semiconductor materials and batteries have historically presented significant challenges, recycling programs are becoming increasingly available for these components.
Q. Can an HOA stop my installation?
A. Your HOA can adopt reasonable standards and guidelines for the placement of your system. However, if their guidelines increase your cost or negatively impact your system performance, State Law allows the homeowner to override the HOA guidance with the most effective placement to achieve lower cost and higher performance. We certainly encourage working with your HOA, and we will help you through this process. The result will be the high performance, cost effective system you expect.
Q. Do I have to take up room with a bunch of batteries?
A. For most utility grid connected systems, batteries will not be a system component so the answer is no. However, if you require battery backup or have an off-grid system, we will work with you to find a safe and productive location for your battery bank enclosure.
Q. Do you provide financing?
A. While we don’t provide the financing directly, we have secured strategic lender agreements that we can coordinate for our client’s convenience.
Q. Where can I place my solar panels?
A. Solar panels can be placed almost anywhere that experiences direct sunlight during the solar window (a time frame typically from 9am to 3pm); rooftops are common, arrays can be mounted on poles with sun tracking systems, on ground racks, as shade structures over walkways and patios. The placement and design is nearly limitless.
Q. What about cloudy or smoggy days?
A. Solar will work in smog or cloudy conditions. However, as less sunlight is reaching the solar panel, the performance of the panel decreases. These inefficiencies are taken into account when your system is designed so that while on some days your power generation is less, throughout the year, your production will be maximized.
Q. What is the process to install a solar system?
A. We first schedule a site visit with you review your requirements, your site, and present you with information and a customized analysis. When you accept the proposal, your system will be designed and we will obtain all necessary utility approvals and city permits. Your system is now ready to install. We will coordinate a convenient time for our crews to perform the installation at your site and once complete, we personally walk with you through the commissioning of your system.
Q. How long does the installation take?
A. Residential installations typically take 3 -5 days depending upon the size of the system. Commercial installations vary widely and depend on the size and complexity of the system. Rest assured we will closely coordinate the process with you to ensure your complete satisfaction.