Welcome to the North Texas Renewable Energy Group
NTREG - Solar Frequently Asked Questions
Updated: July 10, 2020.Note: Some information herein applies only to Texas. To that extent, effort has been made to identify the Texas-only items such as local and regional incentives and state laws. It is up to the reader to differentiate between Texas-only information and that which is broader in scope.
Answers are accurate to the best of our knowledge, and current as of their date of posting to this FAQ, but are subject to change. If you discover an answer that's outdated, no longer applicable, or incorrect, please use our "Contact Us page" and let us know. Thank you.
One or two keywords are placed at the beginning of each question to help you identify the nature of the question, and its related answer. Questions are shown in alphabetical order by keyword(s).
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Battery backup
Recent advances in battery technology have made it possible to add long-life batteries to photovoltaic systems, which in turn can provide reserve power in case of a utility failure.
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Grid Interactive
Solar electric equipment that's connected to the utility grid and operates in conjunction with the grid is termed "grid interactive". See also "stand-alone".
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"MACRS"
Pronounced "makers", MACRS is an acronym for "Modified Cost Recovery System". MACRS is a provision within the IRS Tax Code that allows businesses investing in qualifying solar energy property to recover certain capital investment of the equipment within five years. It allows businesses to deduct the appreciable basis of the system over five years time, reducing the tax liability and accelerating the rate of return on the solar investment. The value of the MACRS depreciation benefit can be challenging. For that reason, it's best to obtain guidance of a tax or accounting professional for this aspect of the system value.
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Net Metering
Net metering is often available to owners of solar electric systems when the system produces more power than is being consumed, and the excess energy goes backwards through their electric meter to the utility grid. credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. Some retail electric providers give credit for this excess, which is then subtracted from the money owed for energy consumed at other times.
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"PACE"
"PACE" stands for "Property Assessed Clean Energy". A PACE loan is a type of low-interest financing available for energy-efficient upgrades or the installation of renewable energy sources for commercial, industrial, and private residential properties. PACE loans are repaid though increased property taxes until the loan balance is zero, at which time the property tax decreases to the rate prior to the PACE loan. This is advantageous because unlike a conventional loan where a lien is often filed against the property, PACE loan payments aren't required to be cleared prior to the sale of the property, but instead transfer to a new owner as part of the taxes if the property is sold.
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Photovoltaic
Photovoltaic means "electricity from light".
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Photovoltaic Modules
It's a more formal term for "solar panels". Photovoltaic modules are solar cells connected together in an environmentally sealed unit, and generate electricity from sunlight.
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Power Purchase Agreement ("PPA")
A financial arrangement where a third-party solar developer owns, operates, and maintains a photovoltaic system, and a customer agrees to allow the system to be built on their property. The customer then purchases the solar system's electric output from the solar contractor for a predetermined price that's typically lower than the retail cost of electricity. The customer does not own the solar equipment, but may be given a purchase option, typically at the end of the contract. PPAs can run from 5 to 20 years or longer.
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Solar Lease
A solar lease is a financing option for residential solar panels where a homeowner leases panels from a solar company for a fixed fee each month. Unlike a PPA, solar leases often allow the customer to eventually own the solar hardware. Costs for solar energy equipment have declined so significantly in the past 10+ years, a solar lease may not be the best option.
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Solar Panels
See "Photovoltaic Modules".
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Stand Alone
A solar photovoltaic system that operates on its own, without requiring the presence of or connection to the utility grid. Stand-alone systems utilize batteries for energy storage, and are typically used at remote home sites that don't have nearby utility power.
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Benefits: What are the financial benefits of solar energy and solar energy equipment?
For homeowners: Solar energy equipment is proven in 25+ years of studies to ADD value to a home. In Texas, this added value is exempt from property taxes. Solar-equipped homes sell faster and for a higher price than similar homes without solar energy systems. For businesses: Reduced energy consumption, and the savings this provides. Businesses can also take a rapid form of depreciation abbreviated "MACRS", whereby the investment in the solar equipment may be taken over five years. There are too many financial benefits to the use of solar energy equipment to enumerate here. Search the Internet and our "Resources" library for more information.
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Cost: Is solar equipment expensive?
"Expensive" is a relative term. 20 years ago, solar was expensive. Today, it's affordable. A home equity credit line may be used to purchase a solar energy system, and the savings on utility bills can be greater than the cost of the monthly payment on the credit line.
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Cost: How much do solar panels cost?
Market price on solar panels ranges from two dollars to four dollars per DC watt, with "standard" performance solar at the low cost end, and "premium" performance solar panels toward the high end. No difference exists in life expectancy or quality between standard and premium solar panels. Premium solar panels simply produce more energy for a given physical size compared to standard solar panels.
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Cost: How much does it cost to install a solar electric system?
Installation costs vary depending on the size of the system, the type of hardware, the roof or other location where the solar panels are being installed, and many other variables. As of June 2020, a "typical" cost for installation of a residential solar electric system (including all permitting costs, hardware, and labor) is approximately $2.50 per DC watt (without any incentives or tax credits). As the saying goes, "Your mileage may vary."
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Cost: Are prices going to continue to drop in the near future? Is it better to wait for even lower prices?
The price per DC watt for solar panels continues to decrease, but at a slower rate than in the past 10 years. This savings is being offset somewhat by increasing costs for labor, building permits, and other fees. As of June, 2020, the overall cost trend is still slowly downward.
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Cost: Can't I just get a ball-park price online?
You could shop around on line, but prices quoted to you won't be accurate. Costs vary from one installation to the next due to differences in rooftops, local labor rates, and other variables. You'll be quoted the price for only the hardware. Shipping will add hundreds to thousands of dollars. Want to be your own contractor? Solar panels are shipped on pallets, with a total weight each up to 1,000 pounds or more. Have a forklift? If not, the "standing charge" while you unload the hardware will add to the total. Something damaged in transit? It's up to you to deal with the shipping company and the original vendor.
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Cost: When will the cost of solar panels come down to where they're affordable?
Solar panels are affordable now. Reductions in monthly electric bills are often greater than the monthly payment on a home equity credit loan.
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Financing: What solar financing options exist?
For homeowners: Home equity credit loans; conventional loans; "PACE" loans; secured loans; solar leases; Power Purchase Agreements; and others. PACE loans are not yet adopted in Texas for residential systems, and aren't widely available in Texas for business owners, but they ARE increasing. For businesses: all standard channels of borrowing, plus a "PACE" loan (if they own the building).
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Financing: What happens after a solar lease or PPA agreement ends?
It depends on the construction of the agreement. In most "lease" situations, the home or business may be given the option of purchasing the system for a fixed amount, or "fair market value". In the latter case, establishing "fair market value" may be difficult because commercial systems are often depreciated to zero value through the IRS "MACRS" program.
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Incentives: What rebates, tax credits and incentives are available for the purchase and installation of solar energy systems?
In Texas, 43 grant and loan programs are available, and are listed on the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency website. In addition, ONCOR (largest utility company in Texas) and other utility companies offer incentives to reduce the cost of solar energy systems and other efficiency measures. The federal solar tax credit allows a deduction of 26 percent of the total cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes. The credit applies to residential AND commercial systems. There's no cap on the total system value for this credit. Solar support structures (awnings, parking canopies, etc.), as well as roof work required to make the roof suitable for installation of the solar equipment also often qualify. Check with your tax advisor for additional information.
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Incentives: When does the federal solar tax credit expire?
The federal solar tax credit, which is 26 percent during 2020, drops to 22 percent in 2021, and zero percent for residential systems in 2023. Commercial solar electric systems follow the same reduction except in 2023 and onward, they're still eligible for 10 percent tax credit against the total installed cost of the system.
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Insurance: Will installing solar equipment increase my Homeowner's Insurance?
In some cases the answer is "Yes", in some cases "No". Check with your insurance carrier as a first step, long BEFORE you install any solar energy equipment.
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Leasing: Should I buy or lease my solar panel system?
10 years ago, leasing made financial sense for some customers. Today, the total installed cost for solar energy systems has decreased to a point where leasing is rarely practical.
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Leasing: Which is better – solar loans or solar leases?
Where a "solar loan" is involved, you own the system. This carries with it economic, tax, and other benefits. Leases today rarely are advantageous for customers.
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Leasing: How do I know if I qualify for a lease program?
This assessment will be conducted by the solar contractor you've selected, with the evaluation done before any other steps are taken.
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Leasing: Is a solar lease a good idea?
Today, rarely .. if ever.
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Leasing: What should my monthly Solar Lease payment be?
If you DO elect to lease, payments may be a fixed amount each month, or based on the value of energy produced by the solar equipment. Beware of an "escalator clause" where the payment gradually increases with time. Such clauses are often couched in subtle language well into the contract text.
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Loans: How do I choose the best solar loan?
This may require the assistance of your accountant or tax specialist. Look for the best return on investment ("ROI") you can achieve.
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Loans: What is the difference between secured solar loans and unsecured solar loans?
Under a "secured solar loan", the solar hardware (or the home or building itself) will have a lien filed against it, or other form of collateral encumbered to secure the loan. An unsecured loan is granted on the basis of a good credit rating, and does not have any other security involved.
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Maintenance: How much will solar panel maintenance cost?
For residential systems, little to none. The most common maintenance required may be an occasional washing of the solar panels (garden hose from the ground level) to remove leaves or other debris. For commercial systems, solar panels are often at a lower tilt, which allows dirt to accumulate along the lower edge of every solar panel. In such cases, periodic cleaning and inspection by a third-party maintenance service is worth considering. Cost for such service depends on the extent of the work requested and the size of the system. It's not possible to define a cost (or even a range of cost) in this FAQ.
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Net Metering: Do all states require utilities to offer net metering?
No. Texas for one, does not require utility companies to provide net metering. Any net metering that's offered is at the discretion of the retail electric provider.
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PPA: Should I lease (or use a PPA) or buy my solar system?
This would be a decision made based on your financial condition, and discussed with your financial and/or tax advisor.
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PPA: What should my monthly PPA payment be?
If you DO go with a PPA, payment will be defined within the contract, and based on the size of the system and/or other variables. Read carefully BEFORE you sign.
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Property Tax: Will going solar increase my property taxes?
Not in Texas. The Comptroller's Solar and Wind-Powered Energy Device Exemption Guidelines" assist local officials in the administration of the exemption for solar and wind-powered energy devices and are published by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts as required by Tax Code Section 11.27. The application for this exemption is Form 50-123, Exemption Application for Solar or Wind-Powered Energy Devices, available for download from the Texas Office of the Comptroller.
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Property Value: How does solar impact my property values?
More than 25 years of study by the Appraisal Institute (the nation's largest professional association of real estate appraisers), the State of California, the State of Colorado, the United States Department of Energy, US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Environmental Protection Agency, and countless others have all shown solar energy has a POSITIVE impact on a home's valuation. In addition, homes equipped with solar energy systems are shown to sell faster, and at a premium compared to similar homes in the area without solar energy.
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ROI: How many years before the solar panels "pay for themselves"?
This depends on the size of your solar electric system, the total cost of installation, the price you pay for electricity (particularly if it's based on time-of-day usage), and other factors. Typical figures today range from 7 to 12 years. Your circumstances may vary. Remember, owners of homes with solar energy systems often recoup much of their investment when they sell their home. Perhaps a better question to ask would be, "What is the return on investment today for your monthly payment to the utility company?"
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ROI: How do I save money with solar?
The primary benefits are reduced utility bills and increased property values. Business owners can also utilize rapid asset depreciation through the "MACRS" program. (See the definition for MACRS in the first section of this FAQ.)
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Utility Bills: How do I find out how much I pay for electricity?
Look at one of your utility bills. In Texas, you'll find a section for "consumed energy", another section for "Transmission and Distribution" costs (the description varies by utility company), and other taxes and fees. The "usage" cost is what you actually consumed. The others are charges to get the electricity to you, plus taxes and other charges. When in doubt, contact your retail electric provider using their number on your utility bill, and ask for Customer Service. Utility company websites also frequently contain an explanation of charges.
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Utility Bills: How much will I really save on my electricity bills every month?
There's no simple answer to this question. The amount of reduction in your utility bills depends on your usage habits, the size and location of your solar electric system, the amount of sunlight received at your location, and other considerations. Savings range from just a few percent to more than 100 percent, where the solar electric system constantly makes more than the customer uses, and credit for the backfed energy by retail electric provider exceeds their monthly billing. (Note! Not all retail providers give credit for backfed solar energy!)
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Utility Bills: Will I still receive an electric bill if I have solar panels?
Yes. (Unless you have a system with batteries, and it's large enough to allow you to completely disconnect from the utility grid, and you do so.) This defeats the purpose of solar energy. Returning any excess (for credit) reduces the load on your local grid (even if only by a small amount). This in turn means less natural gas or coal burned, and less nuclear fuel required. There's a notion that one house won't make much difference. Keep that in mind and remember, a flood is comprised of many individual raindrops.
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Utility Bills: Will the power company charge me more for electricity if I install solar panels?
Usually not. However, utility companies in some states have begun charging a special fee for customers with solar energy systems. Justification for this fee is based on the assertion "solar customers aren't paying their fair share for the utility grid". If this were true, utility companies would also charge more for customers who decrease their utility bills through energy efficiency improvements.
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Capability: Are solar batteries capable of powering an entire house?
Yes, but only if the batteries and related equipment are very large, and the electrical usage is minimal. This equates to a very expensive system. On a more practical basis, batteries are now sufficiently advanced they can store energy to power selected circuits in the home in the event of a utility power failure. Backup times vary from a few minutes to hours depending on the size of the battery and the power consumed by the "selected" loads. Most people want to maintain their "on-grid" lifestyle on solar. This is both very expensive (for the amount of solar equipment), and not very practical.
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Capability: Is solar energy reliable and powerful enough for my home or business?
Yes .. but only if: 1) Your solar energy system is large, and; 2) The loads are small. A "typical" home consumes more energy than is practical to be provided by solar energy. Instead, solar energy provides some of the energy required, with the utility company providing the difference. Think of a solar electric system as if it's a maintenance-free backyard garden. You consume what you want from the garden, and purchase the rest from the grocery store.
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Definitions: Where can I find definitions for the various solar abbreviations and terms?
Definitions for solar abbreviations and terms are listed on our "Glossary" page.
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Function: Can I generate heat for my home with a residential solar electric system?
Not on a practical basis. Solar panels convert approximately 18 to 20 percent of sunlight into electricity. Conversely, solar air heaters convert around 80 percent. Solar heating and solar hot water are the two most effective uses of solar energy.
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Function: Do solar electric panels also make hot water?
No. This has been tried, and didn't work well. To heat water, solar panels need to operate at a temperature that substantially reduces their efficiency. Making solar panels that are suitable for plumbing is yet another layer of complexity that would add unnecessary cost.
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Function: Will solar panels produce power when the sun isn't shining?
No. Sunlight is a requirement. Solar panels will generate power any time the sun is above the horizon. However, the hours from 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. are the time of day when the maximum power is generated.
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Function: Do solar panels store energy?
No.
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Function: Do solar systems work at night?
No. (Unless they have batteries.)
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Function: How does a residential solar electric system work?
Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity. This electricity is fed to an electrical device called an "inverter" that converts the solar direct current into household alternating current suitable for connecting to the utility grid. The solar electricity is connected on the customer's side of the utility meter, and provides power for the loads in the home. If more power is needed by the loads than the solar electric system is providing, the difference is supplied by the utility company. If more energy is being generated by the solar equipment than needed, all of the loads in the home are powered by the solar energy, and the excess goes backward through the utility meter to be used by other customers in the area.
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Function: How do solar photovoltaic panels work?
Sunlight strikes solar cells and dislodges electrons in the solar cell atoms. Just like cars in a parking lot during a major sale at a store, as soon as one car leaves, another moves in to take its place. In this case, the instant an electron is dislodged, another fills the gap. It's this constant movement of the electrons that creates the direct current.
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Function: How much electricity do solar panels make?
The amount of power depends on the size of the solar panel, the type of solar panel, the angle of the sun to the solar panel, and the ambient temperature. (Heat reduces solar panel output power.) As of June, 2020, typical "crystalline" solar panels (silicon solar cells) generate roughly 21 watts per square foot of solar panel area.
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Function: Should I buy American made solar panels?
This is suggested, but not required. Not many American solar panel manufacturers are still in business compared to the past 20 years. Those that ARE still around are turning out solar panels at record rates, and with quality equal to the best in the business.
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Function: What are the most efficient solar panels?
The most "efficient" panels are made from crystalline silicon, and convert between 20 to 23 percent of the sunlight into electrical power. Don't equate "efficiency" with quality. Standard-efficiency solar panels (17-20 percent) have warranties that match the high-efficiency panels.
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Function: What happens to a solar electric system during a power outage?
Systems without batteries will stop generating power within a fraction of a second. This is required by Safety Standards. Systems with batteries may disconnect some to all of the system from the utility grid, and are capable of providing backup power to selected circuits in the home.
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Function: What happens if there is snow on solar panels?
Snow reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the solar panels. A thick layer of snow may prevent the solar panels from generating any power. On the other hand, solar cells are dark in color, and snow tends to melt off the solar panels fairly rapidly.
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Function: Will I be "off the grid" when solar equipment is installed?
Typical grid-tied systems do not allow "stand-alone" operation. This can happen only if the system is designed to operate on its own, without the presence of the utility grid. An "off-grid" system for a home requires large energy reserves (big battery system), an inverter capable of powering all of the loads, and a very energy-efficient home.
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Function: Will I need batteries for storage?
Only if you want to power selected loads in the event of a utility power failure. Otherwise, no.
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Function: Will solar equipment work if the utility power goes off?
No. Not unless it has batteries and is designed to provide power in the event of a utility power failure.
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Hardware: I've read statements on other websites that say "microinverter" systems are superior to "string" inverter systems, and I/we should avoid "string inverter" systems. Is this true?
No. Microinverter systems and string inverter systems each have their advantages depending on where the solar equipment will be installed. Opinions stating one type is "superior" to the other are based on opinion rather than fact. Websites that recommend one technology over the other should be disregarded.
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Purchase: There are many solar contractors, all claiming to be the "best". How do I/we qualify a contractor?
The American Solar Energy Society has an excellent pre-qualification checklist of questions you should ask a contractor BEFORE you sign anything.
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Purchase: Should I wait for better technology?
No. Technology is constantly improving. An investment in solar energy equipment today will offer a return on your investment that attains break-even long before improvements in the technology get to the "next level".
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Weather: Do solar panels make electricity in cloudy and rainy weather?
Yes. They simply generate less energy than on clear days. Sometimes much less. During periods of very heavy overcast, the solar panels may not generate any power at all. Fortunately, such instances are rare.
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Apartment/Rental: If I rent a home or apartment, can I still get a system?
No. This is up to the owner of the house or apartments. More to this point, there are "apartment" solar systems advertised on the Internet that are designed to plug into an outside AC power outlet. Such systems are dangerous, can cause fires, and are a violation of the Electric Code.
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Backup Power: If the utility power goes off, can electricity from a solar system provide power?
Not unless the system has batteries and was designed from the beginning for this purpose. Otherwise .. no.
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Benefit: How soon will I notice a difference in my electricity bills after adding solar energy equipment?
The system will begin generating power as soon as it's turned on and "commissioned" (approved by your utility company). How long it takes to show up on your utility bill depends on where you are in the billing cycle. Worst case, it typically takes up to two months.
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Contractor: How do I find a good solar installer?
Buying a solar electric system requires you to do some legwork, just as you would for any other contractor. An excellent pre-qualification checklist is available from the American Solar Energy Society.
Here are other suggestions: 1) Never select a solar contractor based only on price, particularly low price. 2) Don't rely on price comparison sites for your information. They can't give you an accurate picture of what's needed. 3) Get at least three quotes. 4) Avoid leases and power purchase agreements. They were acceptable 10-15 years ago, but not today. 5) Give preference to local solar contractors with a track record going back at least five years. 6) Be wary about "reviews" for a company. It's easy for a contractor to show many positive reviews, when in fact the opposite may be true. 7) Don't rely too heavily on Better Business Bureau reports. Some solar contractors know how to "game" the system and garner high ratings when such ratings aren't in fact deserved. 8) Verify the contractor is licensed with the State of Texas. Solar contractors are required by state law to have an electrical contractor's license. You can verify both the contractor AND their master electrician through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation". 9) Ensure the contract has a master electrician assigned to them. (Some contractors hire out.) 10) Ask about warranties. 11) Meet your contractor in person and use the checklist from the American Solar Energy Society. If you're not 100 percent comfortable with a contractor, pass. 12) Get EVERYTHING in writing. If you don't understand something, have the contracor explain it to you in language and terminology YOU understand. If they can't, find a different contractor. |
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DIY: Can I install solar panels myself?
Probably not. Even experienced master electricians have difficulty without training. There are many safety and other considerations you must know and include in the system construction. One mistake can cause a fire - or worse.
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Grid-tied: Can I have a solar electric system on my house and still be connected to city power?
Yes. In fact, this is the way today's solar electric systems are intended to operate.
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Hail: Can photovoltaic modules withstand high winds and hail?
To a point. Solar panels are made of tempered glass, and are tested to Safety Standards to withstand one-inch hailstones striking the center of the glass at 55 miles per hour. If the hailstones are large enough to break the rear windows in automobiles, they're large enough to break the glass in solar panels. Wind withstand is determined to a great extent on the workmanship in the installation. Properly installed solar panels will stay attached to a roof up to approximately 140 miles per hour. Above that, you won't have to worry because you won't have a roof.
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Hail: If solar panels are broken by hail or other cause, can they be repaired?
No. Broken solar panels cannot be repaired. They must be replaced. This becomes an "insurance event" between you and your insurance company. Broken solar panels CAN be recycled.
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Hardware: I read on a website "string inverters" are to be totally avoided. Is this true?
No. "String" inverters (see our Glossary page) are very acceptable. Recommendations against them are based on opinion rather than fact. Two types of inverters are used in solar electric systems: "String inverters", and "microinverters", or combinations of the two. There's a common misperception that microinverters are superior. Others will tell you "string inverters" are better. This is not true. Both types are mature and reliable equipment. Today, neither technology is more efficient or reliable than the other. The type of inverter most suitable for your system depends on many variables that will be identified by a quality solar contractor when they conduct a "site survey" of your location.
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Hardware: If a solar contractor recommends a "string" inverter, should I avoid them and consider a different contractor?
No. The type of system that may be optimal for your location depends on the roof size, direction of the roof surfaces, and other considerations. A customer-oriented solar contractor will conduct an on-site review of your home or business, then perform calculations based on this review and recommend the most appropriate system for your site. There ARE some solar contractors who will try to sell you a system where they make the most profit. If you're in doubt, reach out to the Texas Solar Energy Society, North Texas Renewable Energy Group (use our "Contact Us" page), or other knowledgeable and neutral third parties for assistance.
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HOA: Do I need approval from my homeowners' association to install a solar electric system?
It's almost certain. Check your Covenants and Conditions. However, more to this point, your HOA cannot withhold permission if you follow the steps and meet the requirements of Texas Law HB362. This law prohibits an HOA from restricting solar panels on a member's home as long as the law is followed. HB362 is posted under "Resources" on our website.
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HOA: My HOA said "No" to installing solar equipment on my roof. Is this legal?
No. It's not legal if you followed the requirements of State of Texas law HB362. A copy of this law can be downloaded from the Texas Legislature website, and is also posted on the "Legislation" link under our "Resources" page.
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HOA: My HOA is requiring the system safety labels be made with their "approved" colors. Can they do that?
No. Strict Fire and Safety Codes mandate the colors of the labels. If your HOA insists on your changing the colors, or does so themselves, contact your local Fire Marshal or other Code Official for assistance.
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Installation: Do I have to go "off the grid" when I switch to solar energy?
No. In fact, it's best if you continue to use utility power when needed, such as at night or on cloudy days. Solar electricity is a supplemental form of power for your home, not a replacement for the utility company.
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Installation: If I decide to get a solar system, how long does it take to get it installed and start producing electricity?
Installation time varies based on the size of your system, roof characteristics, permitting delays, and even the weather. A "typical" system is usually installed within two to five days, and will begin producing electricity as soon as permission to connect to the utility grid is granted by your utility company.
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Installation: Will I have to rewire my house?
No. Connections are made inside your "circuit breaker panel" or very near to it. In rare instances, a "service entry panelboard" (official term for what the public calls a circuit breaker panel, circuit breaker box, and so forth) has been found to have lost its safety certifications due to being a fire hazard. (Examples include models from Federal Pacific, Zinsco, and others.) In such cases, the dangerous panelboard must be replaced before your solar electric system can be installed. This aside, no rewiring of your house is required when a solar electric system is installed.
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Insurance: Does insurance cover solar panels?
Generally, yes. However, there ARE exceptions. Check with your insurance company BEFORE any work begins. Your option is to find a different insurance carrier that WILL insure your solar equipment.
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Longevity: How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels today are predicted to last 50 years or more, as long as the glass and backsheet remain intact. Output power from the solar panels decreases with time (approximately 1/4 to 1/2 percent per year). Solar panels from 40 years ago are found to be operating well, and producing nearly their rated output when new.
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Longevity: Will I ever need to replace my solar panels?
No. See the preceding question.
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Longevity: How long will a photovoltaic system last?
Solar panels: 50 years or more. Inverters: 20 years or more. Inverter longevity depends on the environment where it's installed. Hotter temperatures equate to shorter equipment life.
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Maintenance: What maintenance does a photovoltaic system require?
Aside from a possible (and occasional) washing off, none. If you DO wash the solar panels, do it in the morning, when it's cool, and use ONLY plain water such as from a garden hose. Do so from ground level to eliminate any possibility of falling off the roof.
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Net Zero: How much solar equipment will it take to: a) Have a zero electric bill?; b) Power my air conditioner?; c) Run my entire home?
The most applicable answer for all of the above: More than you have roof space. Solar energy reduces our consumption from the utility company. Unless you have a very large roof area and lower than average electric bills .. "zero" usage is difficult to achieve. It's possible, but not always practical.
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New Construction: Can solar electric systems be included in new home construction?
Yes! In fact, this is the BEST time to install solar equipment!
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Permit: Is a building permit required to install solar panels?
If you live within city limits, yes. If you live outside of the city limits, not always.
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Permit: Is permission needed from the local utility to connect my solar system to the grid?
Yes. This is true regardless of where you live (in a city, or out in the country).
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Preliminary: What should we consider before putting solar on our roof?
In no particular order of importance: The location and orientation of your home. The age and condition of your roof. Your home's construction (very old homes may require evaluation by a Texas Licensed Structural Engineer). Homes with very steep roofs are sometimes not suitable for solar panels. Homes with a crawl-space attic are also problematic. The orientation of your roof (direction it faces). The quantity and type of vegetation that shades your roof (a small amount of shade can drastically reduce solar power output). The type of roof on your home (tile roofs CAN have solar panels installed, but it's more labor intensive, thus more expensive). .. for openers. A qualified solar contractor can conduct a "site survey" to evaluate shade and other potential issues.
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Purchase: We're considering installing solar panels. What should we do first?
Decide on your purpose and/or goal for installing the solar energy system. Is it to attain a zero utility bill? This can be done, but it's expensive, and not always attainable. Is it to reduce your utility bills? This more practical. Next, find several highly-rated solar contractors in your area. This is like shopping for a plumber, mechanic, or any other trade professional. There are good ones and bad ones. Don't rely on ratings from the Better Business Bureau. Their ratings have been shown to be unreliable where solar contractors are concerned. A simple test: If you contact a solar contractor, and they can explain any aspect of the solar electric system and installation process in plain language YOU can understand, that's a good start. If they confuse you, or cannot answer questions .. find another contractor.
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Purchase: What's best place to get solar panels?
From a local solar contractor. Don't try to purchase solar panels, then ask a contractor to install them for you. This is tantamount to buying food at a grocery store, then taking it to a restaurant and asking them to prepare a meal for you.
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Purchase: How do I/we find a good solar contractor?
An excellent pre-qualification checklist is available from the American Solar Energy Society.
Here are other suggestions: 1) Never select a solar contractor based only on price, particularly low price. 2) Don't rely on price comparison sites for your information. They can't give you an accurate picture of what's needed. 3) Get at least three quotes. 4) Avoid leases and power purchase agreements. They were acceptable 10-15 years ago, but not today. 5) Give preference to local solar contractors with a track record going back at least five years. 6) Be wary about "reviews" for a company. It's easy for a contractor to show many positive reviews, when in fact the opposite may be true. 7) Don't rely too heavily on Better Business Bureau reports. Some solar contractors know how to "game" the system and garner high ratings when such ratings aren't in fact deserved. 8) Verify the contractor is licensed with the State of Texas. Solar contractors are required by state law to have an electrical contractor's license. You can verify both the contractor AND their master electrician through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation". 9) Ensure the contract has a master electrician assigned to them. (Some contractors hire out.) 10) Ask about warranties. 11) Meet your contractor in person and use the checklist from the American Solar Energy Society. If you're not 100 percent comfortable with a contractor, pass. 12) Get EVERYTHING in writing. If you don't understand something, have the contracor explain it to you in language and terminology YOU understand. If they can't, find a different contractor. |
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Reflectors: Can reflectors or mirrors be added on solar panels to increase the power they generate?
No. Reflectors create shade on other solar panels. Even if it were possible, reflectors would make the solar panels much hotter, shortening their life, and even possibly damaging them.
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Roof: What if my roof is in poor condition?
Have your roof repaired BEFORE having any solar work done.
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Roof: Do I need to have the roof replaced before the solar panels are installed?
If it's been replaced within the past 10 years, and is in good condition, probably not. If there are any concerns, have a roofing contractor examine your roof before any solar work is done.
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Roof: How will solar affect the aesthetics of my roof?
As the saying goes .. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder". Properly installed solar panels tend to blend with and are parallel to the roof. At one time, "shake" wood shingles were allowed, and in some cases actually required in parts of Texas. Then, a major neighborhood fire jumped from rooftop to rooftop. The Texas Fire Marshal prohibited shake shingles, and required those that had been installed to be removed and replaced with composite shingles. Citizens complained loudly about the "ugly" appearance of the ordinary (but fire-resistant) shingles. Today, composite shingles are so commonplace, they blend into the background. Same can be said of the new (and small) satellite dishes.
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Roof: If I have solar panels installed how will this affect my roof?
If the solar panels are properly installed (to building code, no leaks, etc.), they won't affect the roof at all. In fact, they'll shade the part of the roof where they're installed, not only protecting the roof from sunlight, but the effects of small and medium-sized hail, thus extending the roof life.
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Roof: What other options do I have if the system cannot be mounted on my roof?
This depends on where you live, and the circumstances of your house and yard. Some cities allow ground-mounted solar panels behind a house. Trees, swimming pools, and other object may not allow this. Sometimes a canopy may be constructed over a patio area, and used as a support for the solar panels (panels themselves may even comprise the roof). In some cases of commercial sites, parking canopies can be constructed. In some cases, solar panels simply can't be effectively installed. A site survey by a qualified solar contractor can assist in this regard.
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Site Survey: Why is shade a problem?
Shade on solar panels is the equivalent of putting a kink in a garden hose while water is flowing through it. A restriction in one place restricts the flow of electricity and reduces system output. Various configurations of solar panels exist that help minimize the impact of shade, and these options may offer a viable alternative. Once again, a qualified solar contractor conducting a site survey can assist in that respect.
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Do solar electric systems require batteries?
No. Batteries are not required unless the system is going to provide backup power, such as during a power failure.
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Will solar panels continue to charge my home battery during a power outage?
Some do. Some don't. This depends on the system design.
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What is the life expectancy of batteries in today's systems?
The latest technology batteries are expected to last 5 to 7 years with hard use (frequent and deep discharges), 7 to 12 years for "average" use, and up to 20 years with light use (infrequent and shallow discharges).
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Are batteries capable of powering our entire house?
Probably not. This would require very large (and expensive) batteries, plus considerable energy efficiency on your part. Batteries in solar electric systems can provide a limited amount of power for up to several hours.
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There are leaves and/or other debris on some of our solar panels. Can we wash them off?
Yes. Use water only, sprayed on the solar panels while you're standing on the ground.
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A major hailstorm damaged our roof and solar panels. What should we do?
Contact your insurance company, and then your solar contractor .. in that order. Solar panels can be replaced.
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We need to sell our solar-equipped home to move. What do we do?
Make sure your Real Estate agent knows and understands solar energy equipment. There aren't many, but they DO exist. Next, with the assistance of your Real Estate agent, ensure the appraiser is also solar-knowledgeable, and uses the American Appraisal forms that include solar energy equipment in the appraisal. If you skip this step, it could cost you thousands in the sale price you get for your home.
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What is "Community Solar"?
Community solar is a solar power facility where people may purchase "shares" in the system. For example, let's say the system has 4,000 solar panels, and you "purchase" 40 of them. You'd be entitled to a credit equivalent to 40/4000 .. or 1 percent of the total energy generated by the facility. Community solar systems are provided in some states where a home or business is otherwise unsuitable for solar panels, such as in a very shaded neighborhood.
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What is the difference between a "Retail Electric Provider" and ONCOR?
This question is specific to Texas. A "Retail Electric Provider" (often abbreviated "REP") is a utility company that purchases electricity in very large quantity from the companies that generate it, then sells it to you at a higher price. ONCOR owns the power lines. They don't generate or sell electricity. They simply move it from the generating companies to the end users. ONCOR is referred to as a "transmission and distribution" utility. They do not compete with retail providers, but instead work with them to get power power from the sources to the customers.
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What do the terms on-grid, grid-connected, grid-tied and off-grid mean?
"On-grid", "grid-connected", and "grid-tied" all mean the same thing. The solar electric system is connected to and works in conjunction with the utility grid. "Off-grid" means the system is NOT connected to the utility grid, and is capable of operating as a completely stand-alone system, without the grid.
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How does solar energy benefit the environment?
Decreased use of fossil fuels to generate electricity. Reduced losses of energy in the utility grid. Cleaner air and lower production of greenhouse gas emissions. Decreased water usage (nuclear power plants use a LOT of water!). The widespread distribution of solar electricity, and the fact it produces energy during the day when it's most needed .. helps alleviate the need for building more fossil-fuel power plants.
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