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What should I do before installing rooftop solar panels?

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Posted by Jeana Brookes on October 11, 2012 at 9:39 am

Solar panels can provide a home with clean energy and reduce the utility and electricity bills. However, there are five things that a person should do before installing rooftop solaire energy systems:

  1. Understand the electricity bill. It is important to find out how much is paid per kilowatt-hour for electricity in ones home. A large amount of the electric bill covers supply and delivery charges, which are independent on the amount of electricity used. Being aware of ones usage and energy patterns – in addition to how much one actually pays for electricity –  can help a person make n informed decision on solar power.
  2. Increase energy efficiency.  Any San Diego solar installer would agree that energy efficiency improvements should be made before solar installation. A house that is poorly insulated, for instance, is not very energy efficient. Some states will offer rebates for those who have a professional home energy audit performed before solar is installed.
  3. Reduce current energy consumption. If a person installs solar panels, they’ll want to get the most out of their investment. So how can someone get the most out of their energy? By starters, reducing the amount of energy consumed – turn the lights off, buy energy efficient appliances, etc. Any solar energy produced from the solar panels will offset more of the total usage; the less that is used, the more that is saved.
  4. Check the roof. Not all roofs are alike. Certain roof orientations provide better sun exposure than others. It is important to know if the roof location will receive full sun between the high sun hours – which are generally 9am to 3pm. For example, a south-facing roof with no obstruction will on average receive maximum sun exposure. Solar panels will generate power in less-than-perfect conditions, but in these cases the panels are not being used to their full potential.
  5. Check the bank. After a person decides they are ready for solar panels, it is important for them to check their financial situation. Renewable energy does save money, but installation is expensive and the return on investment can take up to ten years. In addition, it is important to find out if the state one lives in offers any special solar-related programs. If you live in California, for example, returns on investment will occur fast and there are several programs (such as the California Solar Initiative) to simplify the process.

Solar panels can be a great way to get clean, renewable energy and reduce the amount paid in electricity bills. It is always a smart idea to be an informed and educated customer before installation.

 

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What is the difference between solar energy and solar power?

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Posted by Jeana Brookes on September 24, 2012 at 11:03 am

Earlier this month, California celebrated its solar power milestone when the state generated over 1,000 megawatts of solar power during a heat wave. Despite its growing popularity, many Americans are still unsure on how to take advantage of this potential source of energy.

Solar energy is the primary energy source for Earth. It is received in the form of sunlight. Solar power is the conversion this sunlight into electricity. Solar panels make it possible to convert solar energy to solar power.

Photovoltaic solar panels can harness solar energy from direct sunlight as well as indirect sunlight, such as when it is cloudy. Photovoltaic solar panels San Diego are made using two pieces of silicon – one negatively charged and one positively charged – that are put together in glass casing with a metal frame.

Silicon, as a semi-conductor, can transfer the solar energy into electricity. This happens when sunlight hits the cell, and electrons are knocked off the positively charged silicon and move toward the negative charge. While they are moving, a thin wire on the negative silicon piece acquires the free electrons, creating both an internal circuit and electrical current.  When connected to an external electrical circuit, the current can then be harnessed and utilized in different areas in ones home and business.

In layman’s terms, the silicon transfers and converts the solar energy into electricity that can be used to power homes and businesses.

Solar power can be used for residential, industrial, and commercial purposes. Once harnessed through the solar panels, it can be used to provide hot water for washing and heating buildings and pools, as well as air conditioning. Other innovative products that can use solar power include electric vehicles, sports stadiums, and trashcans – and new products are being created every day.


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Is Solar Power a Profitable Investment?

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Posted by Amanda Rahi on December 7, 2011 at 2:41 pm

While it has been evident for a long time that solar power has a huge potential to be a leading source of sustainable energy, advances and implementation rates are not there yet. However, over the last few years, there has been a lot of monetary effort going into solar power that is beginning to pay off.

Solaire Energy Systems in San Diego report that their clients see payback in as little as six years, with a yearly return-on-investment of up to 18%.

Solar systems are proving to be so efficient that now many users are able to eliminate their electric bill. This is because systems send excess electricity back to the grid of your local power company, where they are stored as credits to use at night when your system is not producing.  Consumers can also take advantage of solar energy government incentives and tax breaks.

Solaire SunPower dealer in San Diego assures that by investing in a solar power system, you will be making a profitable investment and save thousands of dollars over the life span of the solar panels, which can last between 40 to 70 years. In addition, having a solar energy system raises the property value of your home or business.

To learn more about advances in solar energy systems read Solar Power Method Photovoltaics on the Rise.

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What Are the Benefits of Solar Energy?

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Posted by Amanda Rahi on October 24, 2011 at 10:15 am

Government incentives and rising electricity and heat costs make solar energy now more than ever an attractive and affordable option for your home or business. It is investment that can make a difference both in the short and long term, and it can improve human health as well as the environment.

San Diego Solar Energy Experts Solaire Energy Systems, for example, promise that customers will see a yearly return-on-investment rate of up to 18%, payback on a solar energy system in as little as 6 years, and will save hundreds of thousands of dollars over the life of the panels. Solar panels last between from 40 to 70 years.

There are many ways to use solar energy for heating, air conditioning, hot water systems, and pools. Just think of all the free heat that comes from the sun and heats surfaces, especially in warmer southern areas. With a complete solar energy home system, it is possible to eliminate electric bills and increase your property value.

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