FAQs

Typically, the industry standard for most solar panels ranges from 25 to 30 years. Many reputable manufacturers even provide production warranties for 25 years or longer. On average, the point where solar panel energy savings cover the initial investment usually occurs within 6 to 10 years after installation.

Definitely! Solar panels are designed to meet rigorous international inspection and testing standards. Moreover, a skilled installer will ensure that they are installed in compliance with local building, fire, and electrical codes. Additionally, your solar energy system will undergo a comprehensive inspection by a certified electrician during the installation process. Rest assured, solar is a safe and reliable choice!

If your system generates more electricity than you use, it’s common, especially during daytime when the home is unoccupied. However, it’s rare for systems to be sized to exceed annual consumption. If you produce surplus energy annually, compensation depends on state policies. Installing a system that produces over 100% of your consumption isn’t recommended, as excess electricity is often compensated at lower wholesale rates.

Installing a solar energy system on your property offers various financial benefits. By harnessing solar power, you can reduce your electricity bills and shield yourself from potential increases in electricity rates over time. The amount you save will vary based on factors such as your location’s utility rates and solar policies, but investing in solar energy is generally a smart financial decision regardless of your geographical area.

The solar panel payback period indicates the time required to recover the initial investment in your solar panel system through savings on your electricity bills. Upon reaching this period, known as the break-even point, your system is fully paid off, allowing you to start benefiting from returns on your investment (ROI) with reduced or eliminated energy expenses. It’s important to note that your payback period may vary, potentially being shorter or longer than the average of 8.7 years.

The solar program in the US is the federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which provides a direct reduction in taxes owed as an incentive for installing a new solar energy system. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, the ITC currently offers a 30% credit of the solar system cost until 2033. Subsequently, it will gradually decrease until its expiration in 2035.

Well, there are actually two main technologies that make it possible. The first one is called photovoltaics, or PV for short. You’ve probably seen those sleek panels on rooftops or in fields. When sunlight hits these panels, special cells inside them absorb the photons and create an electric field, allowing electricity to flow. It’s like magic! 

Now, let’s talk about the second technology called concentrating solar power, or CSP. This one is used in large power plants and not really suitable for homes. CSP works by using mirrors to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto receivers. These receivers then collect the solar energy and convert it into heat, which can be used to generate electricity. It’s a fascinating process! If you want to dive deeper into the world of solar energy, you can learn more about how PV and CSP work. They’re both incredible ways to harness the power of the sun and create clean, renewable electricity.

Despite expectations, real-world experience indicates that efficiency typically only decreases by around 6 to 8 percent after this time period. Consequently, the lifespan of solar panels might extend far beyond official estimates. Premium PV panels can potentially remain functional for 30 to 40 years or more, albeit with reduced efficacy over time.

While it may seem tempting, the best and safest approach is to rely on a certified professional who specializes in solar installations. By working with a qualified expert who holds a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), you can ensure that your solar system is installed properly and efficiently. Don’t take any chances when it comes to harnessing the power of the sun – trust the experts!

Solar panels generate minimal electricity from alternative light sources at night, as they primarily rely on sunlight for operation. However, when paired with solar battery storage, excess energy collected during the day can be stored for nighttime usage or during cloudy conditions when solar panel efficiency is reduced.

To power a home, solar panels are first strategically positioned on a south-facing rooftop and angled to maximize exposure to sunlight. These panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. Homeowners may also choose to install solar battery systems to store excess energy for use during periods of low sunlight or at night.

Yes, solar panels can be recycled. Visit SolarRecycle.org or the Solar Energy Industries Association for more information. Despite challenges like high recycling costs and a small market, advancements are expected. Collaboration between governments and the solar industry will be crucial to ensure efficient recycling processes. Keeping systems operational for their lifespan is essential. While recycling challenges exist, solar panel waste is relatively minimal compared to other sources like coal ash and plastic waste.

Well, the price range for solar panels on an average home is typically between $15,000 and $20,000. However, don’t forget about the fantastic 30% federal solar tax credit! With this incentive, you can expect to pay a reduced amount ranging from $10,500 to $14,000. So, go green and harness the power of the sun while saving some bucks!

Solar is low-maintenance technology with no moving parts in solar PV, reducing the likelihood of equipment failure. Panel replacement is typically unnecessary during their lifetime. Wiring may require occasional maintenance due to animal interference. Depending on the inverter type, replacement may be needed after 10 to 12 years, often covered by extended warranties.

While rain and snow naturally clean panels, occasional cleaning may be beneficial in dusty areas. Climbing to clean panels is not recommended; contact a professional if necessary. Inspections by a qualified solar professional every 3 to 5 years ensure proper operation and address any issues.

Saving money by going solar is influenced by various factors. It primarily depends on your electricity consumption, the size of your solar energy system, and whether you decide to buy or lease the system. Additionally, the amount of power your system can generate is affected by the direction your roof faces and the amount of sunlight it receives.

Your savings are also influenced by the electricity rates set by your utility company and how much they will reimburse you for any surplus solar energy you contribute to the grid. To find out the current electricity rates in your area, you can refer to the National Utility Rate Database.

Yes, solar power can indeed generate enough electricity to power an entire house. The key lies in ensuring that your solar panel system operates at peak efficiency. This involves selecting the appropriate type of panels, hiring a reputable installer, and positioning the panels optimally for your home’s specific requirements.

However, it’s important to note that while a solar panel system can cover all your energy needs, consistent production may vary due to intermittency. Incorporating storage solutions can mitigate reliance on the grid during periods of limited sunlight.

Solar plus storage is a game-changer! It involves combining solar panels with energy storage, usually in the form of batteries. This setup allows you to store excess energy generated by your solar system for later use, ensuring you have power when you need it the most. Whether it’s during the night, after sunset, or even during a power outage, having storage can make a significant difference in your energy independence.

By harnessing solar power instead of relying on traditional energy sources, we can significantly diminish the release of carbon and other harmful pollutants into our surroundings. This reduction in carbon emissions not only leads to a cleaner atmosphere but also ensures purer air and water for all.

Experience hassle-free monitoring and maintenance: With microinverters, you can effortlessly monitor the performance of each module in real-time, even from a remote location. This allows you to promptly identify any potential issues and ensure smooth operation. Say goodbye to complicated maintenance procedures!

Solar water heating systems harness the sun’s rays to produce thermal energy, warming water for use in homes or buildings. While Solar United Neighbors encourages the adoption of solar water heating, it is not included in our co-op programming, which is solely focused on solar PV.

When the power goes out, grid-tied solar arrays stop producing electricity to prevent safety hazards for utility workers. To maintain power during outages, pairing solar panels with batteries, known as solar + storage, allows homes to continue using solar electricity stored in batteries even when the grid is down.

To install solar on your RV camper or van, you can opt for portable solar panel systems that can be set up or taken down easily, or use small/flexible panels that can be roof-mounted. These systems are ideal for “boondocking” without nearby power sources. RV solar systems are smaller than residential ones, designed to recharge electronics or power kitchen appliances. They are cost-effective and eco-friendly, requiring minimal maintenance. Components include solar panels, a battery for storage, an inverter for AC appliances, and a charge controller to prevent overcharging. Off-the-shelf mobile solar systems are available, and specialized installers can be found for permanent installations on vehicles.

A smart inverter is a crucial component of a battery storage system, allowing you to manage when and how your batteries operate. Unlike standard inverters, smart inverters offer more control over battery usage through mobile apps and web portals. They can be programmed to optimize usage based on factors like utility rates or personal preferences. While essential for maximizing economic benefits in utility areas with favorable rate structures, they are primarily used for backup power in most regions.

Absolutely! Being a homeowner is not a requirement to claim the tax credit. Even if you are a tenant-stockholder at a cooperative housing corporation or a member of a condominium, you are still eligible for the tax credit as long as you contribute to the costs of an eligible solar PV system. The amount you spend on the system will be used to calculate your tax credit. However, if you are a renter and your landlord installs a solar system, you cannot claim the tax credit since you must be the owner of the system.

There are no restrictions on the dollar amount or the duration of the tax credit. The credit is capped at 30% of eligible expenses for property put into service within a specific year.

You’re eligible to claim solar tax credits once, in the year of your solar equipment purchase. However, if you continue to invest in solar or other renewable energy sources in subsequent years, you can also claim tax credits for those investments. There’s no restriction on how many times you can claim the credit, as long as you’re consistently investing in renewable energy across multiple years.

One exception to this rule is if your federal solar tax credit exceeds your tax liability for a given year. In such cases, you won’t receive the excess funds immediately, but you can carry them over to future tax years. This means you could potentially claim the federal solar tax credit for the same investment over several years.

Yes, it is indeed possible to get free solar panels, but there are certain requirements that need to be met. Different states have varying levels of solar-friendliness, with some offering more incentives to assist with the costs of going solar. These incentives often include programs that provide free solar panels. However, to qualify for these free panels, you will typically need to meet specific income criteria. Generally, low-income households have a higher likelihood of being eligible for these free solar panels.

It’s important to note that while these incentives may offer free solar panels, they often come with a lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) agreement.

Solar leasing is a trendy choice for individuals who prefer not to own solar panels yet still desire to harness solar energy for their household needs. By opting for a solar lease, you essentially rent company-owned solar equipment installed on your property, typically at a set monthly fee.

When you sign up for a PPA, or power purchase agreement, you’re essentially paying for the electricity produced by a solar panel system owned by a company. PPA rates are usually lower than the retail electric rate provided by your local power company.

NY-Sun stands as an initiative led by the New York State government through NYSERDA, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. Its mission revolves around enhancing solar accessibility for all New Yorkers. NY-Sun achieves this goal by offering incentives, financing options, educational support, and various resources, ultimately fostering the development of solar projects of diverse scales and types throughout the state.

To be eligible for Solar for All, you must reside in New York State, be responsible for paying your electricity bill, and meet certain income criteria.

Residents of New York State with a household income below 60% of the state median income are eligible. You can demonstrate eligibility by participating in utility or federal assistance programs.

Additionally, you must receive your electricity bill from one of the State’s major utilities: Central Hudson Gas & Electric, Con Edison, National Grid, NYSEG, Orange and Rockland, or Rochester Gas & Electric. Unfortunately, customers of PSEG Long Island and those receiving electricity from a municipal utility are not eligible. Furthermore, households with low electricity usage (below 1,000 kilowatt hours in the last twelve months) are also ineligible.

In 2024, the federal tax credit for solar installations stands at 30% of the solar installation expenses. While the average tax credit is approximately $6,000, your actual credit amount hinges on your installation’s specific costs.

You can apply for the tax credit in the tax year corresponding to the installation of your solar system. For instance, if you installed solar panels in 2023, you would claim the tax credit when filing taxes for the 2024 year. If you missed claiming the credit in time, you can file an amended return to ensure you receive it.

Indeed, you can apply the solar tax credit if you financed your solar installation through a loan. Several solar loans typically necessitate repaying the equivalent amount of the tax credit within 18 months to maintain manageable loan payments. Failure to do so may result in increased loan payments. Therefore, ensure you have the funds available to pay down your loan once the 18-month period elapses.

The federal solar tax credit applies to several types of property:

1. Residential property

   – Primary residences (single-family homes, condos, townhouses, etc.)

   – Secondary residences (vacation homes, second homes)

   – Both existing homes and new construction qualify

2. Commercial property

   – Businesses

   – Agricultural properties

   – Rental properties (apartments, office buildings, etc.)

   – Non-profit organizations (schools, churches, etc.)

3. Off-grid solar systems

   – Solar energy systems not connected to the utility grid are eligible as long as they are generating electricity for a residence or business

4. Community solar projects

   – Homeowners who participate in community solar projects may be eligible for the credit based on their share of the project’s costs

It’s important to note that the solar energy system must be owned by the taxpayer claiming the credit, either through a cash purchase or financing. Leased solar systems or power purchase agreements (PPAs) do not qualify for the federal solar tax credit, as the system is owned by a third party in these arrangements.

Yes, you can claim the federal solar tax credit for solar installations on rental properties that you own. The same eligibility requirements and credit rates apply to rental properties as they do to other commercial properties.

Here are a few key points to keep in mind when claiming the credit for a rental property:

1. Ownership: You must own the solar energy system, either through a cash purchase or financing. Leased systems or power purchase agreements (PPAs) do not qualify.

2. Installation date: The system must be installed and placed in service between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2024, to be eligible for the 30% credit rate in 2024.

3. Business expense: The cost of the solar energy system is treated as a business expense and should be depreciated over time, typically using the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS).

4. Reducing tax liability: The federal solar tax credit is applied against your income tax liability associated with the rental property. If the credit exceeds your tax liability for the year, you can carry the unused portion forward to future tax years.

5. Passive activity rules: Passive activity rules may limit your ability to claim the credit if you do not materially participate in the rental property business. Consult with a tax professional to determine how these rules apply to your specific situation.

As with any tax-related matter, it is essential to consult with a qualified tax professional to ensure that you are eligible for the credit and to help you navigate the claiming process for your rental property.

Certainly, you can claim the tax credit for solar installations on secondary residences. However, it’s advisable to consult your tax provider to ascertain whether your vacation home meets the necessary criteria for eligibility.

Battery storage is indeed eligible for the federal tax credit, regardless of whether it is connected to solar panels or not. Previously, batteries were only eligible if linked to a qualified solar system. However, following the IRA’s passage, standalone batteries can now also benefit from the tax credit.

No, the tax credit applies solely to systems that have been fully installed within the respective tax year.

This tax credit is nonrefundable, indicating that any excess amount beyond your tax liability won’t result in a tax refund. However, homeowners might receive a tax refund at year-end because of the tax credit, if the reduced tax liability leads to an overpayment during the year. This situation often arises when employers withhold taxes from employees throughout the year. Nevertheless, such refunds are still subject to the taxpayer’s overall tax liability. Additionally, any unused tax credit amount can be carried over to the next tax year.

Net metering allows solar energy system owners to be compensated for any excess power they generate and send back to the grid. Back in the 1990s, the electric meter would literally run backwards, but nowadays it’s a bit more complex. Whether you’ll receive payments for net metering depends on the policies of your state and utility company. To find out more about net metering in your area, reach out to your local electric utility. Make sure to ask about availability, system size eligibility, rates, and how bill credits are designed.

In many states, net metering credits typically roll over from month to month and sometimes even from year to year, offering flexibility in their usage. This means you can accumulate credits during periods of high solar energy production, like summer, and utilize them during times of lower generation, such as winter months.

Virtual net metering, or VNEM, extends the benefits of net metering to individuals without solar panels on their property. Through VNEM policies, participants can subscribe to a community solar farm, where solar energy is generated and fed into the grid. Net metering credits are then shared among all subscribers, resulting in reduced electricity costs, typically by 5-15%. Community solar serves as an excellent alternative for those unable to install rooftop solar systems.

While solar energy is the most common application of net metering, some states’ regulations may allow for net metering with other distributed generation systems, such as wind turbines. Depending on the specific net metering rules in your state, you might have the opportunity to benefit from net metering with various renewable energy sources.

For some, disconnecting from the grid can be a tempting choice, especially for those who opt for battery backup systems like the Tesla Powerwall. However, the majority of our solar customers prefer to remain connected to the grid.

Your electricity bill might be higher due to increased energy consumption. If you haven’t noticed a change in usage, it’s plausible that an appliance is operating inefficiently and may require replacement.

Throughout your electric bill, you’ll encounter kWh, where a kilowatt (kW) equals 1,000 watts of power. kWh quantifies energy usage, representing the amount of work performed or energy expended within one hour. For instance, running a one kW microwave for an hour consumes one kWh of energy.

Yes, if your home remains connected to the grid, you’ll continue to receive an electric bill even with solar panels installed. However, depending on your system’s output and your energy consumption, you may owe nothing. Yet, if your panels fail to meet your energy demands or if your usage increases post-installation, you may still owe fees to your utility provider. For complete reliance on solar energy, consider integrating solar battery backup systems alongside your panels.

You’re compensated for your solar production through net metering, which allows you to offset your energy consumption with your energy production. Excess electricity your solar panels generate is sent to the grid, and your electric meter runs backward, crediting you for this contribution. When you use more electricity than your system generates, your meter runs forward, pulling extra electricity from the grid. Your final electric bill is your total usage minus the electricity your solar panels produced.

Third-party ownership involves a solar company owning and maintaining panels on your roof, providing insurance and maintenance for 25 years. You buy the energy through a power purchase agreement (PPA) or pay a fixed monthly rate (lease). These agreements usually have no upfront fees and offer lower solar prices than standard electricity rates, resulting in monthly savings. Contracts typically last 15 to 25 years, with an option to purchase the system later. The company retains tax credits and incentives, sharing savings with the customer.

The profitability of a solar farm hinges greatly on its size and the local electricity rates. A rough estimation of a solar farm’s profitability can be achieved by multiplying the average wholesale market rate of solar electricity in the region (measured in dollars per megawatt-hour, MWh) by the farm’s size (in megawatts, MW). However, it’s crucial to factor in upfront and maintenance expenses, as well as land rental costs if applicable, in your solar projections.

Despite being efficient sources of renewable energy, the establishment of solar farms can pose environmental concerns. Factors such as the extensive land requirements, energy and materials utilized in solar panel production, and potential issues with solar panel disposal can contribute to negative impacts on the environment. Moreover, maintenance activities associated with solar panel farms may lead to groundwater contamination. However, when developed conscientiously, solar farms are environmentally safe and advantageous, particularly if they’re situated on non-pristine land like landfills.

The electricity generated by one acre of solar panels varies depending on factors such as the efficiency of the solar modules and the geographic location’s sunlight exposure. Generally, landowners and companies overseeing solar panel farms can anticipate an annual production of several hundred megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity for each acre of solar panels.

Aesthetic considerations regarding solar farms and their implications for permits and approvals may concern investors. However, various examples worldwide showcase how creativity can address this issue effectively. 

Secured loans typically have lower total costs but require collateral. If your financial situation is uncertain, an unsecured loan might be safer.

If you’ve already borrowed against your home equity or owe most of your mortgage, consider unsecured loans or a solar lease/PPA.

Secured loans usually have lower rates (3-8%) due to lower lender risk. Unsecured loans can have hidden markups, so compare options carefully.

Secured loans typically offer terms of 10-15 years, sometimes up to 20. Unsecured loans range from 5-20 years. Longer terms mean lower monthly payments but more interest over time.

Secured loans generally provide better value with lower interest rates and tax benefits, but unsecured loans offer convenience without collateral risk.

Secured loans may include appraisal, application, and closing fees. Unsecured loans can have hidden fees, so ensure full transparency.

Interest on secured loans is often tax-deductible, unlike unsecured loans.

With secured loans, the balance must be paid off upon selling your home. Unsecured loans stay with the borrower, not the property.

Unsecured loans can be approved quickly, while secured loans may take several weeks due to appraisal and documentation processes.

 Your home isn’t at risk, but your credit score could be impacted.

Secured loans typically have lower total costs but require collateral. If your financial situation is uncertain, an unsecured loan might be safer.

If you’ve already borrowed against your home equity or owe most of your mortgage, consider unsecured loans or a solar lease/PPA.

Secured loans usually have lower rates (3-8%) due to lower lender risk. Unsecured loans can have hidden markups, so compare options carefully.

Secured loans typically offer terms of 10-15 years, sometimes up to 20. Unsecured loans range from 5-20 years. Longer terms mean lower monthly payments but more interest over time.

Secured loans generally provide better value with lower interest rates and tax benefits, but unsecured loans offer convenience without collateral risk.

Secured loans may include appraisal, application, and closing fees. Unsecured loans can have hidden fees, so ensure full transparency.

Interest on secured loans is often tax-deductible, unlike unsecured loans.

With secured loans, the balance must be paid off upon selling your home. Unsecured loans stay with the borrower, not the property.

Unsecured loans can be approved quickly, while secured loans may take several weeks due to appraisal and documentation processes.

 Your home isn’t at risk, but your credit score could be impacted.