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1. Q. Where I live there are a lot of cloudy days. Should I even consider solar energy power?
A. Yes. With very few exceptions, you can use solar energy can be captured even when it’s cloudy. You may be in an area where it takes more photovoltaic (PV) panels, or they may need to be arranged differently, but there just aren’t very many locations where clouds can keep the sun from providing enough energy to either run as a stand-alone power system, or to supplement an existing one.
2. Q. How affordable is solar power?
A. While still a little higher system cost than fossil fuel (coal, gas, oil) in many areas, once you factor in the incentives like tax credits, (federal and state), rebates, net metering, and the upward march of fossil fuel costs, the question may turn itself into one that asks “Who can afford not to have solar power?”
3. Q. Can you explain the difference between a solar power system and a solar hot water system?
A. Well, a solar hot water system is one component of a solar power system. It’s generally just a radiant hot water heater that in one of several ways captures sunlight and uses it to create hot water for your home. A solar power system, on the other hand, is a system that may consist of a solar panel array made up of photovoltaic (PV) panels, or a parabolic trough, or some other collection tool that uses the sun’s energy, converts it into electricity which you use to power your home in the same manner you would as if you were getting that electricity from the utility company.
4. Q. How much maintenance do solar power systems take?
A. No. Solar systems require little or no maintenance other than keeping your panels or other collection devices free of debris, heavy snow or leaves.
5. Q. Is financing available for a solar power system?
A. Yes. It falls into the same arena as most other home improvement projects that are eligible for home equity loans. Check with your financial institution before you sign up, but since solar power systems add value to your real estate, most lenders are happy to help…assuming you have good credit of course.
6. Q. Should I have a solar professional advice me before I start?
A. This really depends on your expertise and comfort level. Solar professionals can help you avoid the pitfalls of a beginner, and usually know who the best installers are in the area, both of which could save you big bucks. But if you don’t mind doing the research, and are comfortable with your own knowledge base, you can also do it on your own.
7. Q. Should I get more than one bid?
A. Just like any other project, having more than one bidder can help you determine not only the best price, but present you with different installation choices. Before you decide on the final plan, get as many ideas as possible, set realistic expectations before you start the work, and once you start, stick as close to the plan as possible. Doing so can keep you on budget…and on plan for completion.
8. Q. Am I going to have to have a lot of roof space for a photovoltaic (PV) system?
A. This depends on how much power you need. For a 1000 watt system, you’ll need between 100-200 square feet of area (about the size of an average bedroom).
9. Q. What is net metering?
A. Net metering is an energy calculation from your local utility. When you have an on-the-grid system, the local utility company will install an additional…or different…meter. That meter will turn backwards when you are producing more energy from your own system than you’re using. The backwards movement means your electricity is flowing into the utility company’s power grid and will be used by others. This or a different meter will also track any electricity you pull for your use from their power grid. You get credit on your power bill for any excess energy you produce and send into their power grid.
10. Q. Will my going solar really make a difference in global warming?
A. Everyone who quits using coal, gas or oil to provide power to their home makes a difference. Since the average American produces 53,000 pounds of carbon dioxide a year, everything each individual does to reduce their carbon footprint makes a difference. Every person who converts to solar energy to fill their power needs sets an example for their neighbors…or any stranger walking by. Yes. One person can make a difference.
Want to find out more about home solar power, then visit Timothy Peters’s site at: www.HomeSolarPowerExplained.com
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