Want to Go Solar? What You Need to Know

If you're considering making the switch to solar power, congratulations on taking the first step towards a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Going solar can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save you money in the long run. However, before diving into the world of solar panels and inverters, it's important to understand the basics. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about going solar, from understanding the technology to finding the right system for your home or business. Let's get started and see how you can harness the power of the sun!

Who Qualifies to Have Solar Panels?

One of the most common questions people have when considering solar energy is whether they qualify for it. The good news is that almost anyone can go solar, as long as they have access to sunlight. Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, so naturally, areas with high levels of sunlight are ideal for solar installations. This doesn't mean that you need to live in a sunny state like California to go solar. Even if you live in a colder or cloudier climate, you can still generate enough electricity from solar energy to power your home or business.

Understanding Solar Technology

Solar energy is the conversion of sunlight into electricity, and it's achieved through the use of solar panels. These panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells that absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity then goes through an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home or business. Note that solar energy is different from solar thermal technology, which uses the sun's heat to create hot water or air for heating purposes.

Benefits of Going Solar

There are many benefits to going solar, both for you and the environment. One of the main advantages is the reduction in your monthly electricity bill. By producing your own electricity, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate your reliance on the traditional power grid. This means saving money in the long run and protecting yourself from rising energy costs. Going solar also reduces your carbon footprint by reducing the need for fossil fuels, which contribute to air pollution and climate change. Additionally, installing solar panels can increase the value of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

A Few Cons to Keep in Mind

While there are many benefits to going solar, be sure to also consider some potential drawbacks. One of the main concerns is the upfront cost of installing a solar system. While prices have significantly decreased in recent years, it can still be a considerable investment. However, keep in mind that this initial cost will pay off in the long run through savings on your electricity bills.

Another potential downside is the dependence on sunlight for energy production. This means that solar panels may not be as effective in areas with lower levels of sunlight or during cloudy days. Lastly, be sure to find a reputable and experienced electrician or solar installation company to ensure proper installation and maintenance of your system, such as someone at Aus-Tech Electrical & Automation Pty Ltd.

Choosing the Right System

When it comes to choosing a solar system, there are a few key factors to consider. The first is your energy usage—how much electricity do you currently consume and how much do you expect to use in the future? This will determine the size of the system you need. You should also consider your budget and whether you want to purchase or lease the system. Don't forget to do your research and get quotes from multiple installers to find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, make sure to check for any available incentives or rebates in your area that can help offset the initial cost of installing a solar system.

Installation and Maintenance

Once you have chosen your system and an installer, it's time to install the panels on your roof or in a suitable location on your property. It's recommended to hire a professional installer to ensure the panels are safely and correctly installed for maximum efficiency. After installation, regular maintenance is important to keep your system running smoothly. This includes cleaning the panels, checking for any damage, and monitoring performance. Most solar panels come with a warranty of 25 years, but it's always wise to read the fine print and understand what is covered.

What Not to Do to Your Panels

To make sure your solar panels last as long as possible, there are a few things you should avoid doing. First and foremost, do not attempt to clean or repair the panels yourself unless you have proper training and equipment. This can be dangerous and may also void your warranty. Additionally, avoid shading the panels with trees or other structures, as this will decrease their efficiency. Lastly, don't attempt to remove snow or debris from the panels yourself. Contact your installer for assistance in these situations.

Going solar can have many benefits for both you and the environment. By understanding the technology, weighing the benefits, and choosing the right system for your needs, you can make a positive impact while also saving money. It's important to do your research, get multiple quotes, and work with a reputable installer to ensure a successful and efficient transition to solar energy. With the right system and proper maintenance, you can enjoy clean and renewable energy for years to come.

Soon to Go Solar? 5 Preparation Tips for Homeowners

The sun is rising on a new era of energy for homeowners across the globe. Solar power, once considered a futuristic option, is now a practical and increasingly popular choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and electricity bills. If you're considering making the switch to solar energy, there's more to it than simply slapping some panels on your roof and calling it a day. Here are five essential tips to prepare your home (and yourself) for the transition to solar energy.

1. Evaluate Your Energy Needs

Before you even glance at a solar panel, it's vital to assess your current energy usage. Solar systems are not one-size-fits-all, and understanding your household's energy consumption patterns can help determine the size and type of system that will best suit your needs. Start by reviewing past utility bills or using an online energy calculator. This initial step ensures that your solar system isn't just installed—it's optimized for your specific energy requirements.

2. Inspect Your Roof's Suitability

Solar panels need a strong, stable, and strategically oriented foundation to maximize sun exposure. The condition, material, and slope of your roof play significant roles in the efficiency of your solar system. Ensure your roof is in good repair and can support the additional weight of the panels. Additionally, roofs with southern exposure in the Northern Hemisphere (and vice versa) typically yield the best results. If your roof isn't ideal, don't despair—ground-mounted systems are an alternative option.

3. Understand Your Local Climate

Solar panels can be a worthwhile investment in most climates, but local weather patterns can influence the efficiency of your system. Areas with higher amounts of sunlight naturally facilitate more energy production. However, even homes in less sunny locales can benefit from solar power, thanks to advances in photovoltaic technology and battery storage solutions. Additionally, consider how seasonal changes might affect your energy production and plan accordingly.

4. Research Incentives and Financing Options

The cost of solar installation can be a significant barrier for many homeowners. Fortunately, federal, state, and local incentives can substantially lower these upfront costs. Tax credits, rebates, and solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) are just a few of the financial incentives that might be available to you. Financing options, such as solar loans and solar leases, can also make solar more accessible. Investigate all the incentives and financing opportunities in your area to make your solar transition as economic as possible.

5. Choose the Right Solar Provider

Partnering with a reputable and experienced solar provider such as United Solar Electric and others is crucial for a successful solar installation. Look for companies with certifications, positive reviews, and a solid track record of installations in your area. A trustworthy provider will not only offer quality solar solutions but also guide you through the entire process, from the initial assessment to navigating permits and hooking up your system to the power grid.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to solar energy is a significant step towards a more sustainable and financially sound future. By carefully preparing your home, understanding your options, and selecting the right partners, you can ensure a smooth and effective shift to solar power. Remember, going solar isn't just about the technology—it's about joining a growing community of homeowners who are taking control of their energy futures. Are you ready to join them?

Whether you're just starting to consider solar or you're on the verge of making the switch, these tips can help ensure that your solar energy project illuminates a brighter future for your home. Welcome to the sunny side of energy independence!

Sizing Your Solar Panel System: Determining the Optimal Capacity for Your Energy Needs

When the strength of the sun's rays is harnessed, a wide range of energy-efficient options become available. Energy efficiency may be revolutionized with a personalized solar system for your home and way of life, saving you money and helping the environment. 

Consider factors like location, size, and usage when designing a system to meet your and your house's needs. You may wave goodbye to electricity expenditures and enjoy the magic of solar power.  This would offer you a perfect mix of economic prosperity and environmental care with the help of knowledgeable professionals and dependable technology!

How to Size a Solar Panel System?

In 2021, according to this statistical data, 56% of households in the US use solar panels to produce solar energy. As a result, 18.9 million households in the United States use solar energy. Moreover, among the surveyed participants, 57% are installing solar panels. Almost everyone is sizing solar energy and optimizing it for their energy needs. 

The same thing applies to the business world. Solar energy can provide enterprises with substantial energy savings. Solar energy can reduce energy costs by up to 75 percent. Accordingly, purchasing and installing solar systems for businesses is comparable to paying electric expenses for five years. Of course, it has something to do with your business's demand for consumption, but the idea of becoming an eco-friendly energy user is rewarding to use the solar system.

On the other hand, solar panel installation for businesses is  affordable and financially feasible for almost every industry.  It will help you reduce business expenses and eliminate your business's electric bill. Another benefit of installing solar energy is that you can keep yourself safe from changes in energy rates. 

As the number of people who need power increases and the amount of nonrenewable resources decreases, fuel prices increase. Thus, always make your business green. You make a good investment for a lifetime. Solar panel installation will require minimal maintenance, mainly if no batteries are utilized. The solar panel can provide electricity efficiently and will last for almost 25 to 40 years. Hence, the benefits of solar energy are permanent.  

To make the solar system sizing estimation as accurate as possible, you'll also need to consider the type of roof mount you'll require, the direction your panels will face, and the correct panel size for your system's design.

Choose Your Mount Type

A roof mount is the most straightforward and economical option, as it is cheaper than other carriers. To determine if a roof mount can be used:

• Retrieve the address using Google Maps. 

• Check to see if there are any viable south-facing roof mounting options. If the solar array cannot face south at the desired angle, the system must be adjusted by adding more solar panels.

• Your solar system should face the equator; therefore, if you live in the Southern Hemisphere, you should consider north-facing options. Typically, the roof's slope is optimized for solar gain, and it maintains the solar panels close to the inverter and service panel. This increases efficiency and reduces conduit and wire costs.

 Select the Appropriate Solar Panels.

Suppose you have a small or atypically shaped roof. In that case, solar panel size is a crucial factor in determining the size of a solar system.

 Consider the following;

• With a sizeable functional roof area, you can purchase larger panels (at a lower cost per panel) to generate the desired energy.

• If your usable roof area is limited or partially shaded, the most cost-effective, long-term solution will be to use fewer, more minor, high-efficiency panels. 

• You can install more solar panels in the future to accommodate growing energy demands. You can consider using large scale commercial solar panels.  Choosing the right solar panels for your business can provide significant benefits, such as cost savings, financial stability, meeting renewable energy objectives, and enhancing your company's environmental image.

Calculate Solar System Output

Using a PV watt calculator.You can determine how much power your system will produce each month once you've chosen the area available for solar panels and the angles and orientation you'll be working with. Do the following:

• Enter the address and press the orange arrow pointing to the right.

On the System Info page, input the DC system size determined in the previous section.

• Select a standard module.

• For array type, choose "fixed" for roof-mounted systems and "open" for ground-mounted systems.

• Keep the system's losses at approximately 15%.

• Enter the roof's pitch in degrees and its azimuth. Azimuth degrees relate to north and south, with north being 0 degrees and south being 180 degrees.

How to Determine the Optimal Energy Storage Capacity

The total energy storage capacity of any given PV system is dependent on the size of the solar panel array, the local climate and sun exposure, and usage requirements. It enables you to save electricity for later use. It regulates when, where, and how to use it. Energy storage can aid in preventing climate change by reducing emissions from electricity, heating, and air circulation needs.

These are the steps in determining optimal energy storage:

• Examine your electric receipt to determine the kilowatt reading. On your bill, the kilowatt reading should appear next to the "kWh" abbreviation. Ensure the task represents a month of average usage.

• Select a month with average energy consumption is challenging, add the kWh usage for each month of the year and divide by 12 to determine the monthly average.

• Divide your monthly kilowatt consumption by 30 to obtain your average daily consumption. Then, divide this figure by the average number of total sun hours per day in your region (usually between 5 and 7 hours).

• Multiply this new figure by 1.15 to account for any unanticipated inconsistencies in effectiveness. This provides your total in Kilowatts. Multiplying by 100 will convert this to wattage. This will help you better comprehend what size solar system is required.

What are the advantages to Businesses Using Solar Panel Systems?

You know that solar energy is a long-term investment with a slow return. You will ultimately base your decision on the advantages of solar energy for your business. Here are some of the principal benefits:

Reduced Operating Expenses 

Switching to solar power is a significant undertaking. There is no doubt that solar energy will significantly reduce your electric bills. According to reports,, the typical business reduces its electrical expenses by three-quarters. This begins promptly after switching to solar energy and continues at the same rate for the remainder of the system's lifetime. 

Durability and Sustainability

Alternative energy sources, such as nuclear power facilities, have an uncertain future. Given the unpredictability of nuclear accidents and nuclear waste issues, the end of nuclear power generation is grim. This leaves the sun as a virtually inexhaustible renewable energy source. Solar energy is the future solution for low-cost electricity production.
You invest in your company's future profitability by converting to solar energy. Like the stock market, where investors speculate on future needs, you can mitigate your electrical wager by installing a self-sufficient solar generation system. With solar energy, you can reduce your electrical consumption costs and safeguard the future of your business.

Energy Independence

Another significant advantage of converting to solar power is its independence from commercial energy sources. Investing in a self-sufficient solar system can reduce or eliminate your reliance on the utility company. You will save substantial money on overhead expenses and be assured of a reliable electric supply regardless of what occurs to the commercial grid.

Solar Tax Incentives

Tax benefits are likely the most significant benefit of converting to solar electric power. Local, state, and federal administrations support the transition to renewable, clean, and efficient solar energy. To demonstrate their support, they provide tax incentives and financial aid programs.

When you convert your business to solar power, you will obtain the following tax advantages:

Tax Credit 

This tax relief from the federal government of the United States provides a 26% rebate on the total cost of your solar energy system. For instance, if you invested $20,000 in installing solar panels, you are eligible for a tax credit of $5,200. In addition, the program has no investment limit, so you can invest as much as you want in solar energy and still receive the 26% rebate. After 2022, however, the benefit amount decreases. The ITC falls to 22% in 2023 and 10% after that.

Accelerated Depreciation

Your solar energy equipment is also eligible for accelerated depreciation. This is accomplished through the Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS), another federal program. The MARCS initiative lets you write off your entire solar panel system in the first year. In contrast, typical equipment depreciation tax deductions are distributed over the product's useful life. This significantly enhances your cash flow and enables you to finance solar power installation.

Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

This solar energy option enables you to recover equipment installation costs by selling your solar system's energy. Government frameworks equate one SREC to one thousand kilowatt-hours. They mandate that electric companies participate and honor every SREC your solar equipment generates.

You are not required to install a particular model or size of solar panel system to qualify for these tax benefits. They are government-backed incentives designed to encourage the transition to solar energy, regardless of the type of system installed.

Continuous Financial and Environmental Returns on Investment 

Despite the initial high cost, installing solar energy in your home and business is a good investment. This investment will continue to benefit your bottom line. Depending on the size of your system, it can pay for itself in a few years while you enjoy lower or even zero electric costs. 

Finally, businesses of all sizes recognize that installing a solar electric energy system is a crucial strategic decision that ensures a stable financial return for decades. 

It also helps recruit customers, as many are drawn to businesses committed to sustainability initiatives. Imagine that in three years, the CO2 offset of a 105 kW system is equivalent to saving 11,004 trees and 49,522 gallons of petroleum.

Conclusions

The use of solar power has significant advantages for business industries. It doesn't pollute or cause the release of greenhouse gases once it's set up. There is less reliance on oil and chemical fuels from other countries. It is clean, and renewable power is available every day of the year, even when it's cloudy. It has a return on investment, saving you money instead of paying an energy bill.

Therefore, choosing the optimal size and capacity for a solar battery system is essential for enjoying its benefits and future energy consumption by businesses. You may consult experts from Genie Solar. Genie Solar is a part of Genie Energy (NYSE: GNE), a global company that provides power to US and European customers. They can help you figure out your whole energy plan and give you assistance on how to put a solar power system on top of your business.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Solar Panels and How To Get the Most From Your Investment

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative energy source. Going solar is a great way to reduce or even eliminate your energy bills, and it’s also good for the environment. But before you make the switch, it’s important to understand how solar panels work and what you need to know in order to make the most of your investment. Read on for a comprehensive guide to solar power for homeowners. 

How Solar Panels Work

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They are composed of photovoltaic cells, which are made up of layers of semi-conductive materials such as silicon and other elements like boron and phosphorus. When light hits these materials, electrons become excited and move around, creating an electrical current. This current is captured by metal plates placed at either end of the cell, completing the circuit and producing direct current (DC) electricity. 

Factors To Consider Before Installing Solar Panels

Before investing in a solar panel, there are some important factors you should take into account. First and foremost is the amount of sunlight your area receives. If you don’t get much sun, then it’s likely that investing in solar won’t be as cost-effective or produce enough power to offset your electricity bill. Additionally, you should consider how much space you have available on your roof or property to install the necessary number of panels – more space means more potential savings! Finally, it's important to factor in any upfront costs, such as installation fees or permits which may be required in order for the installation to go ahead.

Benefits of Installing Solar Panels

Going solar has numerous benefits for homeowners. For one thing, it can significantly reduce or even eliminate monthly energy bills by providing clean and renewable energy directly from the sun. Additionally, installing solar panels can add value to your home by making it more attractive to potential buyers who are looking for homes with green features. And finally, using solar energy is better for the environment than traditional sources like coal and natural gas because they don’t emit pollutants or greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. 

Tips For Getting The Most From Your Investment

If you decide that going solar is right for you, there are several things you should keep in mind in order to get the most from your investment: 

Make sure your roof is suitable for solar installation

Before installing any kind of system on your roof, it’s important to assess its condition first. If there are any problems with your roof—such as cracks or leaks—these should be addressed before beginning installation in order to maximize efficiency and prevent further damage down the line.  

Research local incentives

Depending on where you live, there may be local incentives available that can help offset some of the costs associated with going solar. Do some research online or call around to find out what options may be available in your area.

Don’t skimp on quality

When selecting a contractor or system components, make sure that you choose quality over price in order to ensure long-term reliability and performance from your system. Poorly installed systems can lead to costly repairs down the line; skimping now could end up costing you more later on!  

Making the switch to solar power is a great way for homeowners to save money while also minimizing their environmental impact. With this guide as a starting point, we hope that you feel informed about what goes into making this decision and how best to get the maximum return from your investment in terms of both financial savings and environmental responsibility! Thanks for reading