SOLAR 101

Confused about solar energy?

Let us tell you all you need to know based on our industry experience and your individual needs.

What Is Solar Energy?

Solar energy is simply energy from the sun. By using solar photovoltaic panels, we can use this energy and turn it into green electricity for your home or business.

While the technology is complex, it's operation isn't. Modern solar systems are fully automatic and don't require any upkeep.

How Can It Save Me Money?

When you purchase a solar system either up-front or through financing, the solar system can supply 100% of your electricity needs, which means that this cost replaces your energy bill.

Because of the different incentives in place, you can cut your electricity bill by as much as 50%.

Why The Low Efficiencies?

You will see efficiencies of anywhere between 15-22% for modern solar panels. You're probably thinking that this is very low!

However, because of technical limits, the maximum efficiency any solar panel can ever achieve is around 33.3%, which makes that panel efficiency look a lot healthier.

What's Included in a Solar System?

Solar PV Panels

The main part of any solar system is of course the solar panels. The number of panels you need depends on how much energy you use and the suitability of your rooftop for solar energy.

A south-facing rooftop will require fewer panels than an east or west facing. Our energy consultants will advise you on the best design for your home.

Microinverters

Solar panels produce DC (Direct Current) electricity. However, most of our appliances use AC electricity. The inverters convert solar electricity from DC to AC to be used by your home.

We only use microinverters, which means that every panel has an inverter attached. This is better when there is shading as each panel can operate independently.

Racking System

The solar PV panels and microinverters need to be attached to your rooftop. Racking systems are metal structures that are attached to your roof to secure the system in place.

We have different racking systems depending on the angle of your rooftop, which aim to maximize the amount of energy your solar panels receive.

What if my roof isn't suitable?

We install on asphalt shingle, slate, and even metal rooftops! However, a roof inspection will ensure that your roof can handle a PV system. Generally, the newer the roof, the better. If your roof is more than 10 years old, you might need a roof replacement. It can be bundled into the total cost of your solar system. Alternatively, you can choose to cancel the contract if you don't want to move forward with a solar PV+ roof replacement.

There is no cancellation penalty and your solar consultant will advise you through the whole process.

What Payment Options Are Available?

Cash Payment

Pay for the whole system up front to ensure you get the most financial benefit. No loan fees and no interest rates. You pay the cost over several installments, with the final installment paid upon system installation.

Financing

You can finance your project through one of our financial partners. We have different loan terms suitable for every credit score. The loan payment is less than your monthly electricity bill and this difference is your savings by going solar!

Lease or PPA

If you do not qualify for incentives, or don't want to own your solar system, a lease or PPA might be for you. You rent the solar system and pay a monthly fee to use the electricity the system produces. After the term is finished, the system is returned to us.