Frequently Asked Questions
Q
How do solar panels produce electricity?
A
Solar modules (or “solar panels”) which produce electricity are known as photovoltaic modules. Photovoltaic modules convert sunlight into electricity by utilizing silicon semi-conductors. Layers of silicon are mixed with boron and phosphorus, creating one layer with a positive charge, and another with a negative charge. When this material is exposed to sunlight, photons disrupt the balance between the positive and negative layers, causing electrons to be “knocked loose” from their proper layer. As these electrons return to their proper layer, an…
Q
How long do solar panels last?
A
Solar modules have a 25-year power production warranty, although the lifespan of solar modules is often is much longer than 25 years.
Q
What happens during a power outage?
A
During a power outage, a solar system equipped with battery backup will allow you to run your critical loads, as long as you have enough solar power stored in your battery bank. However, a grid-tied solar system will automatically turn off. This is due to a built in safety feature that prevents accidental back-feeding onto the utility grid, which could put utility workers in danger as they try to get the power lines back up and running.
Q
Will solar panels break in a hailstorm?
A
While extremely large hail can damage a solar module, it is incredibly rare and unlikely. Solar panels are made with a durable hail-resistant tempered glass, and they are designed and tested to make sure that they will withstand hailstorms and other violent weather conditions.
Q
What is the average cost of a solar installation?
A
Every system is unique and customized to the user’s specific needs. The average cost of a residential grid-tied solar installation is generally between $15,000 and $45,000, but depends on a number of factors, including: the orientation and availability of roof space, amount of shade present (if any), and most importantly the customer’s annual electricity usage.
Q
What is the average payback time frame of a solar installation?
A
Payback time frame varies widely based on the size of the system. Smaller systems will have a longer payback period than larger systems, given that there are a lot of fixed costs associated with designing and installing a solar system. Therefore, the smaller a solar array, the fewer solar panels there are to absorb those fixed costs. Typically we see a 7-9 year payback time frame for an average size system. It’s important to consider rising electric rates, and if comparing to another investment, remember that savings are not taxed like earnings.
Q
What is the average size for a solar electric system?
A
The average size of a residential grid-tied PV system is between 6kW and 12kW. However, bigger systems are not uncommon for larger than average homes.
Q
What will my electric bill look like if I go solar?
A
If properly sized, your system should eliminate any charges for kilowatt hours (kWh) on your electric bill. However, most utilities will still charge customers the monthly service charge in order to cover administrative costs such as reading your meter, processing your bill, etc. While this is common practice, it is also important to remember that all utility companies operate differently, and practices vary widely. If you have any questions about your local utility company’s policies, give us a call at (970) 482-SOLAR.
Q
What rebates and incentives am I eligible for?
A
The federal Income Tax Credit (ITC) allows solar owners to deduct a portion of their solar installation cost from their federal income taxes. As of 2021, the ITC is currently at 26%, in the form of a dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal income tax otherwise paid to the IRS. The ITC percentage amount is set to decrease on Jan. 1st, 2023. For more information on the ITC, click here. Additionally, other local rebates may apply. For more information on Xcel Energy rebates, City of Fort Collins Utility rebates, or other incentives, please call us at (970) 482-SOLAR
Q
How does shading affect solar panels?
A
Shadows cause by trees, chimneys, or other obstructions will reduce power output. During our initial site visit, we will conduct a thorough shade analysis to determine the amount of shade that is possible throughout the entire year. We then use the data from our shade analysis to determine the percentage of power loss. What this means is locations with more shade will either produce less power, or require additional solar panels to achieve the same power output as a location without shading.
Q
Is my roof suitable for a solar installation?
A
We need to consider both structural integrity, and orientation/availability of roof space. Unless your home is very old, then the roof and trusses should be adequate to support the solar system. Secondly, we need to have enough open space free from vents or skylights to mount solar modules. Lastly, the orientation of your roof makes a huge difference in terms of power production. If you lack enough viable roof space, it might be more cost-effective to consider a ground-mounted solar array. Call us at (970) 482-SOLAR for more info.
Q
How much power can I expect my system to produce?
A
Every solar array we install is 100% customized to meet our customer’s goals and objectives. We generally size a system to match our customer’s annual electric usage. However systems can certainly be sized smaller if you prefer to offset less than 100% of your electric usage, or have a specific budget in mind. Additionally, systems can be sized to produce more than your current annual electric usage if you expect your electric usage to increase in the near future.
Q
Will my roof need to be replaced before installing solar panels?
A
For the vast majority of existing homes, the current roof is suitable for solar panels. However, older roofs showing signs of wear and tear, as well as roofs that have been through severe hailstorms or hurricanes may need to be replaced before installing solar. Occasionally customers who have had solar panels on their roof for years may need their roof replaced. We offer removal and reset services so that we can safely take down the system while the roof is being replaced. Once complete, we will reset the solar panels exactly as they were!
Q
What happens if I sell my house with solar panels?
A
Owning a solar system on your home will increase the price of your property. According to the Appraisal Institute, “A solar electric system increases property value by $20,000 for each $1,000 in annual reduced operating costs.” However, if you lease the solar array, you will need to either work with the leasing company to transfer the lease to the next homeowner, your buy out the remainder of your lease before you can sell the system.