TEN (10) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should I go solar?
Solar panels can increase your home's value. When you install solar panels on your home, the value of your home increases. If you ever decide to sell your home, you are increasing the value of your home. When you make the switch to solar, you see savings on a monthly basis. Having solar panels allows you to produce your own power so you no longer have to rely on your uålity company. You own a portion of your power.
What is net metering?
Net metering allows residential and commercial customers who generate their own electricity from solar power to sell the electricity they are not using back to the grid. Many states have passed net metering laws.
Do solar panels produce power at night?
The answer is no they do not. Solar panels need sunlight to create energy. Although they can generate some energy from other light sources such as streetlights and even the moon, the output is very low.
How much maintenance is required with a solar power system?
One of the best features of having a solar power system is it requires no maintenance. in fact, when it rains, we call it our maintenance day because it washes off your panels.
Is it true I can now power my home overnight with solar power?
Yes, if you add batteries to your system. The new Enphase Battery System — not only can provide back-up during bad weather — but it can now power your home overnight to off-set your overnight usage if there are no storms or bad weather in the area.
Are there energy rebates and incentives?
The most powerful savings tool for homeowners who buy their solar systems is the 30% Federal Tax Credit, available for installations through 2033. It allows you to subtract 30 percent of the cost of buying a solar power system from your federal taxes. There's no dollar limit on those expenses; you're entitled to that 30 percent tax break whether you spend $20,000 or more than $100,000 on costs associated with a residential solar system. This break is available to taxpayers for their primary or secondary residence located in the U.S. Taxpayers of any income level can take advantage of it. You can use it whether you itemize your taxes or take the standard deduction. Keep in mind, though, that the solar tax credit is available only if you purchase a solar system.
What size system will I need?
Every home is different and depends on electric usage from your electric provider. Sage Solar designs systems based on your usage.
Do I need to install batteries with my solar panels?
No. You can install a grid-tie solar power system to help off-set your daily usage. Grid-tie systems do not provide back-up.
Will my solar panels produce power during rainy, cloudy days?
Photovoltaic panels can use direct or indirect sunlight to generate power, though they are most effective in direct sunlight. Solar panels will still work even when the light is reflected or partially blocked by clouds. Rain actually helps keep your panels operating efficiently by washing away any dust or dirt. If you live in an area with a strong net metering policy, excess energy generated by your panels during sunny hours will offset energy that you use at night and other times when your system isn't operating at full capacity.
Do I have to put the solar power system on my roof?
Even though most people put solar panels on their roof, Sage Solar offers other installation options, including ground mounts or carport/pergola mounts, etc.