|
FAQs
What is solar energy?
What is a photovoltaic system?
How many solar cells do I need?
Where is the best place to install a solar energy system for my home?
Will my system use a battery or be attached to the utility grid?
Do I need special equipment to attach to the utility grid?
Does my utility have to buy electricity from me if I produce more than I need?
Will a solar energy system reduce the carbon footprint of my home?
Are there any steps I should take before installing a PV system?
Is there anything I can do to reduce the cost of installing a PV system?
What is solar energy?
Solar energy is nothing new. Every time you’ve dried off after taking a swim in the ocean or pool, you were using solar energy. In fact, solar water heaters have been in use in the United States since the 1800s. Solar electricity similarly uses the sun’s natural energy.
Back to Top
What is a photovoltaic system?
The term photovoltaic is derived from the latin “photo” meaning light and voltaic meaning electricity. A PV system absorbs the sun’s rays to generate electricity. As light energy (photons) interacts with a semi-conductor like silicon, electrons are freed to create an electrical charge. This electrical current is collected to form DC electricity.
Back to Top
How many solar cells do I need?
A photovoltaic system is made up of many individual cells that are in turn grouped together in modules. An arrangement of solar modules forms a solar array. The size of the array is determined by a variety of factors including electrical need, budget considerations, space available, geography and climate.
Back to Top
Where is the best place to install a solar energy system for my home?
Systems may be either installed on the ground or be roof mounted. Primary considerations include the amount of sunlight and buildings or trees that may cast shade. To maximize solar output, systems are ideally south facing with an inclination equal to that of your home’s latitude. East and West facing systems can work as well.
Back to Top
Will my system use a battery or be attached to the utility grid?
In order to qualify for many of the tax credits and rebates your system must be attached to your utility’s power grid. A battery system can be designed for off-grid properties or in situations where you would like to avoid purchasing excess need from the utility.
Back to Top
Do I need special equipment to attach to the utility grid?
Yes. A PV system generates DC electricity but your home's lights, electronics and appliances generally run off of AC electricity. An inverter is used to convert the DC into the sinusoidal AC electricity used by your utility.
Back to Top
Does my utility have to buy electricity from me if I produce more than I need?
Federal law requires that utilities honor net-metering agreements. If your electrical usage exceeds your solar energy system production you are simply billed standard rates. When your production exceeds your usage your meter spins backwards banking your excess electricity as a credit with the utility. The utility will charge you only for excess demand beyond your PV systems production each year.
Back to Top
Will a solar energy system reduce the carbon footprint of my home?
Yes. Any amount of energy your system produces will reduce the amount of natural resources like coal and gas consumed by power plants. If your installed PV system produces 100% of more of your electric needs then your home qualifies as having a zero-carbon footprint.
Back to Top
Are there any steps I should take before installing a PV system?
First it is important to consider the condition of your roof. If you have an older home that may need roof repairs or replacement in the near future it is advisable to make these repairs prior to installing your PV system. This way you can eliminate the additional cost of having to temporarily disconnect your PV system for roof repairs.
Back to Top
Is there anything I can do to reduce the cost of installing a PV system?
Yes – act now! The currently available rebates significantly reduce the cost of your installed system. However, rebates are only available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Get started today to reserve your valuable solar rebates. You can also save additional money be reducing the amount of energy you use in your home. See our Energy Saving Ideas.
Back to Top
|
|
