Understanding Solar
Q: What is solar energy? Solar energy is energy that is harnessed from the sun’s rays and converted into usable electricity.
Q: How does solar energy work? Solar panels, which are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, absorb sunlight and convert it into DC electricity. This is then converted into AC electricity through an inverter, making it usable for homes and businesses.
Q: What are the benefits of solar energy? Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, which can reduce your electricity bills and help reduce carbon emissions.
Q: How much do solar panels cost? The cost of solar panels can vary based on the size of the system, the type of panels used, and the location. However, with incentives and rebates, the cost of going solar has become more affordable in recent years.
Q: Can solar panels work during a power outage? Traditional solar panel systems are designed to shut off during a power outage for safety reasons. However, there are now battery storage solutions that can keep your solar panels running during an outage.
Q: Is solar energy right for me? Solar energy can be a great option for homeowners and businesses looking to save on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. A solar installer can evaluate your property and energy needs to determine if solar is right for you.
Q: How much do solar panels cost? The cost of solar panels can vary widely depending on factors such as panel type, installation costs, and location. On average, residential solar panels can cost between $10,000 and $30,000.
Q: What kind of maintenance do solar panels require? Solar panels generally require very little maintenance. Occasional cleaning and inspections can help ensure that they continue to function optimally.
Q: Can solar panels work during a power outage? This depends on the type of solar panel system you have. If you have an on-grid solar system, it will not work during a power outage for safety reasons. If you have an off-grid system with battery backup, you can still generate power during an outage.
Q: How do I know if my home is suitable for solar panels? Factors such as roof orientation, shading, and roof age can affect the suitability of a home for solar panels. A professional solar installer can assess your home and provide recommendations.
Q: What incentives are available for installing solar panels? There are many incentives available for solar panel installations, including federal tax credits, state rebates, and utility incentives. Check with your local utility and government agencies for available programs.
Q: What is net metering and how does it work? Net metering allows homeowners with solar panels to sell excess power back to the grid for credits on their utility bill. This allows homeowners to offset their energy costs and potentially earn money for generating excess power.
Q: How long do solar panels last? Most solar panels come with a 25-year warranty and can last much longer than that. With proper maintenance, solar panels can continue to generate power for 30 years or more.
Q: How does solar energy benefit the environment? Solar energy is a clean, renewable energy source that does not emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, solar energy can help combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
Q: What is the difference between on-grid and off-grid solar systems? On-grid solar systems are connected to the utility grid and allow homeowners to sell excess power back to the grid for credits. Off-grid systems are self-contained and use battery storage to provide power when the sun is not shining.
Q: Can I sell excess solar energy back to the grid? Yes, homeowners with on-grid solar systems can sell excess power back to the grid for credits on their utility bill. This is known as net metering.