Solar Power FAQ
- 1. What is solar energy?
Solar energy is the use of the sun’s rays to generate either heat or electricity.
- 2. How do solar photovoltaic cells/panels work?
Using a semiconductor material like silicon and added elements of boron and phosphorus, a solar cell creates a conductive environment that allows electrons to move across it when activated by energy from the sun’s rays.
- 3. How much can I expect to spend installing a solar power system in my home?
A system that provides 2000 Watts can cost around $20,000. That is without a battery bank, and including the panels, mounting and inverter. Remember that there are various Federal and State tax breaks to offset and sometimes completely absorb this cost.
- 4. How much money can a solar power system save me?
Not only can you save 60-100% of your utility bills (based on your home’s electricity usage, system setup, location and season), but selling renewable energy credits through a broker to your utility company can actually make you money!
- 5. Will my solar power system require regular maintenance?
No. The only necessity is insuring that your solar panels are free of any obstruction from the sun, such as leaves or snow.
- 6. Are there any special permitting or insurance requirements for installing a solar energy system?
You will need a building permit to install your system, and following electrical, plumbing and building codes, as always, will be required. Also, you will probably have to sign an interconnection agreement with your utility company.
- 7. Can I install my solar photovoltaic panels and system myself?
Absolutely. There are a lot of resources out there to help the average homeowner upgrade their home to benefit the environment and their wallets. For starters, National Electric Code Article 690 will inform you of the legal standards that need to be met.
- 8. What are the components of an average residential solar panel kit?
A solar power system is comprised of the solar photovoltaic panels themselves, whatever mounting equipment is required depending on your mounting method, a voltage inverter and a net meter that will keep track of how much power you are using or feeding back into the grid. This is assuming you are on the grid; a system off the grid will not need a net meter. It will, however, require an array of batteries, as will any system that is intended to run when there is a power outage on the grid.
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