Solar FAQ

What are the current solar panel technologies?

Crystalline silicon solar cells are the most efficient converters of sunlight to electricity. Typically crystalline silicon solar panel consists of a transparent glass surface, an ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant, a Tedlar rear layer, and an aluminum outer frame.

Thin-film solar cells are easier and less expensive than crystalline silicon cells because it requires less semiconductor material. The three principal thin-film technologies are amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe) and copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS). These processes produce high-efficiency modules that can be built directly into roofing shingles for aesthetic architectural considerations.

String-ribbon manufacturing combines both conventional crystalline silicon and emerging thin film technology. The high-temperature, molten process provides twice the yield over conventional solar cell construction.

What is a Photovoltaic (PV) system?

A photovoltaic system consists of solar panels, a mounting structure to tilt panels toward the sun, an inverter to convert panel-generated direct current (DC) into appliance-friendly alternating current (AC), a battery storage to compensate for unfavorable weather conditions and or grid-tie system, and a charge controller to regulate battery operation.

What is a Grid-tie system?

Grid-tie systems are interconnected with the electric utility network using a synchronizing inverter. These systems feed surplus electricity back into the local utility grid. The utility acts as a storage system, eliminating the need for batteries.

What is an Off-grid system?

Off-grid systems are stand-alone systems and do not rely on the electrical grid, off-grid systems require batteries to offset periods of lesser power production they are primarily designed for RV, cabin, remote, backup and portable power applications.

What is a hybrid off-grid system?

A hybrid off-grid system uses an external electrical power generator to compensates for reduced solar power production that is insufficient for energy demands.

Do solar electric systems work at night?

No. Sunlight must be present for your solar modules to produce power. At night, you draw power from your utility.

Do solar electric system work on cloudy days?

Yes, though they produce less electricity. Under a light overcast sky, panels might produce about half as much as under full sun.

What happens during a power outage?

Grid-tie systems power your home during daylight hours, but does not provide power in an outage, even on a sunny day. Off-grid systems provide power during daylight hours and also have a battery backup designed to provide power to during an outage, day or night.

Does your solar system make hot water?

No. Solar water heaters use a system of tubes that are heated by the sun for swimming pool water heating etc. Our solar modules convert sunlight into electric current.

Can I generate heat for my home with a residential solar electric system?

No. However we can install a complementary water heating system.

Is shade a problem?

All of the individual solar cells on a module must receive full sunlight for the module to work properly. If any portion of the module is shaded, the entire module power output-even those sections still exposed to sunlight-is lowered.

Will a system produce enough energy to cover all my electricity needs?

A solar electric system does not need to provide all of the electricity you need to be of value. A small system that displaces one-half of your average demand will likewise reduce your electric bill. We are happy to provide you with a system that supplies 100 percent of your energy needs, but cutting your electricity by 40 to 50 percent is typically the most cost-efficient approach for home solar power.

Are there government incentives available?

Yes. State agencies and municipal utilities offer rebates and incentive programs to promote the installation of renewable energy equipment. Incentives can cut the cost of your system in half, saving you thousands of dollars. Your dealer can tell you more about the incentives available in your area.

How much power will a residential system produce?

The amount of power produced by a system varies depending on the size of the system, your geographic location and climate and whether the system has a battery backup.

How long will my solar power system last?

With no moving parts and made of very inert materials, our solar modules are tough. Most of the related system components should also last for many years without problems. The batteries in our residential system may need replacement in five to 10 years.

How can I tell how my system is performing?

We provide a continuous power metering system. Located in your home, your power meter tells you exactly how much electricity you generate and use, and you can login to it from the internet.

How much does the maintenance cost?

Since the maintenance required is very low, your cost should be minimal. Most of the related system components should last for many years without problems. The batteries in the residential system may need replacement every five to 10 years.

Do I need a building permit?

Yes. Your dealer and installer know how to obtain the necessary permits from your local government.

Do I need permission from the local utility to connect my solar system to the grid?

Yes. The local utility has rules and procedures that must be followed to connect any generator to the grid safely and legally. These rules are generally based on national standards with which our systems comply. Your dealer will help you with the documentation and procedures.

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