Frequently asked questions

You can go off-grid with solar panels. However, it is important to note that this is typically not the most cost-effective option for many homeowners. Going off-grid generally requires larger solar PV and battery storage systems than staying connected to the grid.

If you are considering going off-grid with solar panels, it is important to consult with a professional solar installer to determine if this is the right option for you. They will be able to help you calculate the size of the system you need and estimate the associated costs. Additionally, they can assist you in determining whether going off-grid is feasible given your location and energy needs.

You will not need to replace your roof before installing solar panels in most cases. Solar panels can be installed on various roof types, including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and tile roofs. Additionally, solar panel installation companies typically offer roofing services, so they can help to repair any damaged or worn areas of your roof before installing the panels.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, however. If your roof is more than 20 years old, it may need to be replaced before installing solar panels. Additionally, if your roof has significant damage or structural problems, you may need to replace it before installing solar panels. It is always best to consult with a professional solar installer to determine if your roof is suitable for solar panel installation.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. Solar PV cells absorb light and transfer energy to an electric field within the panel when the sun is shining. This process generates direct current (DC) electricity, which can then be used to power your home or business.

While solar panels produce the most power when the sun is directly overhead, they can generate electricity even on cloudy days or during early morning and late afternoon hours. Additionally, many modern solar panels can store energy in batteries for use at night or during periods of low sunlight.

Solar panels will not work during a power outage or blackout. This is because they rely on the grid to provide electricity, and when the grid is down, so are solar panels. However, many solar PV systems are equipped with battery backup systems that can provide power during a blackout. These systems typically use lead-acid batteries, which are large and require significant maintenance.

If you live in an area prone to blackouts, it is important to consult with a professional solar installer to determine if a battery backup system is right for you. They can help you choose the right size and type of batteries for your needs and estimate the associated costs. Additionally, they can install your solar PV system and batteries following all relevant safety codes and regulations.

There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best solar loan for your needs. Some of the most important considerations include the interest rate and fees, repayment terms, eligibility requirements, and any potential incentives or rebates that may be available. Other important factors include whether the loan is secured or unsecured and any other benefits or features that may be important to you, such as the ability to pay off your loan early and any additional support services provided by the lender.

When choosing a solar loan, it is important to research and carefully compare different options to find one that best meets your needs and preferences. Good resources for researching solar loans include online directories, solar calculators, and reviews from other consumers. You can also speak to a solar specialist to learn more about your options and seek expert advice on which loan may be the best fit for you.

When choosing a solar installer, there are several factors to consider. First, you will want to ensure that they are properly licensed and insured. Additionally, it is important to choose an installer with experience installing solar PV systems. Furthermore, you will want to select an installer who offers a warranty on their craft. Finally, asking for quotes from multiple installers is always helpful to ensure that you receive the best price.

To find a reputable solar installer in your area, you can ask for recommendations from friends or family who have installed solar, search online, or contact your local utility company. Once you have a few potential installers in mind, do your research and read reviews to ensure that others have had positive experiences with them. Receive a detailed quote to know the cost when you have found an installer that you are comfortable with. With a little bit of research, you can find a reputable solar installer who will provide you with high-quality craft and a great price.

Solar panels can increase the value of your home or business. A Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory study found that homes with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems sold for about 4.1% more than homes without solar PV systems. Additionally, businesses with solar PV systems have been shown to sell for higher prices and rent at higher rates than businesses without solar panels.

Several factors contribute to solar's positive impact on property values, including increased energy efficiency and reduced utility costs. Additionally, installing solar typically increases a building's curb appeal, which can help attract more buyers or tenants in competitive real estate markets.

The overall cost of solar installation depends on several factors, including the size of your property and its availability for solar exposure. However, most homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 for a solar PV system. Businesses may need a larger solar panel array or additional equipment to generate enough power to cover their energy needs, resulting in significantly higher costs. Many businesses can use tax incentives and rebates offered by government programs to reduce their initial costs.

The cost of solar panel maintenance will depend on several factors, such as the size and type of system, how often you need to clean your panels, and the quality of your panels. On average, solar panel maintenance can cost anywhere from $50-$500, depending on these factors. However, there are some things you can do to keep your costs low, such as choosing a quality panel, having your system installed, and properly maintaining your panels.

It is also important to note that solar panel maintenance is typically much lower than the cost of traditional electricity. Even if you have to spend some money on maintenance, you will still save money on your electric bill. With these savings, you can recoup the maintenance cost in a short period. Therefore, while it is important to keep up with maintenance on your solar panels, it is unlikely to break the bank.

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on your specific situation. If you have the upfront capital to purchase your solar panel system outright and pay for it immediately, buying may be the best option. However, leasing may be a better fit if you are looking for a more affordable option or need time to save money to buy your system.

There are pros and cons to both buying and leasing solar panel systems. When you buy a system, you will own it outright, meaning that you can save more over time as energy costs rise. However, this option is typically more expensive upfront, requiring a significant investment. You will typically pay less upfront when you lease your system, but there are limitations on how much savings you can accrue over time. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and situation.

Several solar financing options are available, which can help make solar more affordable. One option is to lease your solar PV system, which allows you to pay for the system over time while still reaping the benefits of lower energy bills. Another option is to take out a loan to finance your system, which can also be paid back over time. There are also several solar rebates and incentive programs that can lower the upfront cost of solar, making it more affordable.

Solar leases typically last for 10 to 20 years, and they often come with maintenance and performance guarantees. Many solar leasing companies offer flexible payment options, such as pay-as-you-go plans or energy savings agreements. Solar leasing can be an excellent way for homeowners and businesses to go solar without worrying about upfront costs or ongoing maintenance requirements.

There are several benefits to installing solar panels, including reducing your carbon footprint, saving money on your energy bills, and increasing the value of your property.

• What are the Financial Benefits of Solar Energy?

There are several reasons why solar can be a great choice for your home or business, including lower energy costs and increased energy efficiency. Compared to traditional sources of energy like fossil fuels, solar is a much more sustainable and renewable option. Additionally, solar systems are easy and cost-effective to install, reducing the need for ongoing maintenance and upkeep. Solar can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Solar energy can help you save money on your electric bills, and it can also increase the value of your home or business. Solar energy can also create jobs and spur economic growth.

• What are the Social Benefits of Solar Energy?

Solar energy can help improve the quality of life for people in communities worldwide. Solar projects can create jobs and provide access to clean, affordable electricity in areas off the grid. Additionally, solar power can help address energy poverty by bringing reliable electricity to homes and businesses in developing countries. Overall, solar has the power to benefit people's health, livelihoods, and overall quality of life.

• What are the Environmental Benefits of Solar Energy?

Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that could help to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Solar energy is also a quiet, efficient way to generate electricity. Solar power does not require water to generate electricity, making it a more efficient and environmentally friendly option than traditional energy sources like coal or natural gas.

There are two main types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels are made from a single silicon crystal, while polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon crystals. Monocrystalline panels are generally more efficient than polycrystalline panels, but they are also more expensive.

When evaluating solar options for your home or business, several key factors include location, climate conditions, rooftop orientation and size, load shape, funding sources, and aesthetic concerns. Additionally, it's important to think about how much protection your solar panels will need from extreme weather events like hail storms and heavy precipitation. Thinking through these considerations ahead of time can help you choose the right solar system for your needs and goals.

If there is snow on solar panels, it will typically melt off quickly due to the heat generated by the sun. However, if the snow is particularly thick or if it has been compacted by wind, it may need to be removed manually to allow the solar panels to function properly.

Solar panel installation companies typically offer maintenance services, and they can often help remove snow or ice from your solar panels. Many tools and gadgets can help you clear snow from your panels with minimal effort. Overall, it is important to keep your solar panels clear of snow to ensure optimal performance.

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a contract between a solar developer and a customer. The developer agrees to sell solar electricity to the customer at a fixed price. This type of agreement can be used to finance installing a new solar PV system and the ongoing costs of operating and maintaining the system.

PPAs are becoming increasingly popular as they can enable customers to purchase solar electricity at a lower cost than they would pay for grid electricity. However, there are also some potential downsides to using this type of agreement. For example, if you enter into a PPA but then sell your home before the end of the contract, you may be required to pay a termination fee.

Ultimately, whether a PPA is a good option will depend on your individual needs and situation. If you are looking for a way to finance installing a new solar PV system, then a PPA may be a good fit. However, it is important to consider the potential downsides and weigh these considerations against any potential savings when making your decision.

Net metering is a policy that allows homes and businesses with solar panels to sell any excess energy they generate back to the grid. This helps to reduce your electricity bills by offsetting what you would typically need from your utility company. Net metering also makes it easier for homeowners and businesses to go solar since it provides financial incentives for going solar.

Solar energy is a form of renewable energy that uses sunlight to generate power for homes and businesses. As solar panels collect the sun's rays, they can convert this energy into electricity that can be used to power various appliances and other devices.

In general, solar energy systems consist of solar panels, an inverter that converts the solar power into usable AC power, wiring, and mounting hardware. Installation varies depending on the size of your home or business and the specific needs of your location.

A secured solar loan is one in which you put up collateral, such as your home, to secure the loan. An unsecured solar loan does not require collateral, meaning that it is riskier for the lender and often has a higher interest rate.

The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and situation. If you have collateral to put up for a secured loan, this may be the better option. However, if you do not have collateral or are not comfortable putting up your home as collateral, an unsecured loan may be better.

Several solar energy rebates and incentives are available at the federal and state levels. The most common incentive is the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows you to claim a tax credit equal to 26% of the cost of your system. Several state and local incentives can lower the cost of solar, such as rebates, property tax exemptions, and net metering.

To learn more about the solar energy rebates and incentives available in your area, consult with a professional solar installer. They can help you navigate the various programs and find the ones that will save you the most money. Additionally, they can help you apply for these programs and ensure that you are properly qualified. You can save more money on your solar installation, making it a very cost-effective option for taking control of your energy costs.

You will likely still receive an electric bill if you have solar panels. While the amount of electricity produced by your solar panels can offset some or all of your energy usage, it is unlikely to eliminate your need for grid-supplied electricity. Additionally, you may still need to pay additional grid connectivity and maintenance fees, depending on your utility company. The amount you save depends on many factors, such as the size and efficiency of your system, your location, and the amount of sunlight you receive.

Find a Solar Energy Installer Near Me.

There is a lot to think about if you consider solar for your home or business in Fresno, CA. And if you are still on the fence about solar energy, hopefully, the questions and answers above shed light on how solar works and what it could mean for you and your home or business. Keep in mind that there are many incentives available to help offset the cost of installing a solar system, so contact a local installer to find out more. Our team at Solar Panel Installation Solutions can guide you through every step of the process and answer any questions you may have. We will work with you to find the best solar system for your needs and budget and take care of everything from installation to maintenance once it is up and running. Contact us today at 559-890-2205 if you want to learn more about solar.