Question 1

Will I Still Receive an Electric Bill if I Install Solar?

Accepted Answer

The utility company will always charge a fee for using the grid and their meters, much the same way that a cable or internet provider charges you to access their systems, but the best part about solar is that by using the Net Metering Program, you can significantly reduce, or even cut your utility bill to $0 depending on your energy consumption and solar power production! In solar, the term "offset" is used to describe the difference between your systems yearly power production projection, and your previous years (on the utility) average yearly energy consumption, in percentage (What percentage of your usage is covered). If your offset is 110%, that means your solar panels will produce 110% of your previous annual energy usage.

Basically, If your system produces significantly more energy than you use, you wont be bothered by the utility company!

Question 2

How do I Benefit From the Federal Tax Credit?

Accepted Answer

If you purchase solar, you will be eligible for a federal tax credit equal to up to 30% of the cost of the solar project. You can utilize this credit to offset the purchase of your system, or lower your Federal tax burden.
 
According to the US Department Of Energy (https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2021/02/f82/Guide%20to%20Federal%20Tax%20Credit%20for%20Residential%20Solar%20PV%20-%202021.pdf)to qualify for the solar federal tax credit, you must meet all of the following requirements:
 • You must own your home (renters are excluded, unfortunately).
 • The solar panel system must be new or is being used for the first time.
 • You must own your solar panels.

** Availability of Federal & State Tax Credits is dependent on your unique financial situation. Please consult a tax professional regarding your eligibility.
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Question 3

Should I Add A Battery Backup

Accepted Answer

Homes of all sizes can gain from owning a battery in two main ways. To start, you can utilize the battery as a power reserve. You’re still protected even if the grid goes down. If a calamity happens, having a battery will enable you to keep your home or place of business powered even if your utility provider is unable to do so. You have the option of backing up your entire house or only important circuits (lights, internet, etc.). The second reason is that purchasing a battery can really result in financial savings. Solar energy can generate a lot of net power, but it runs out when the sun sets. With the help of a battery, you may store the extra solar energy produced during the day and use it to power your home or place of business at night.
https://video.wixstatic.com/video/f8bc9e_bb4a567aad88406398965488737335f2/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Question 4

What is a "Smart Panel" and Should I Consider Upgrading?

Accepted Answer

As they say “There is an app for that”.  Lets face it, our homes are becoming more dependent on smart technologies every day.  The main electrical breaker panels are truly the heart and the guardian of your home.  Imagine being able to control and isolate entire circuits of your home from the palm of your hand.  No more guessing as to which breaker has tripped if you plug in your toaster and hairdryer at the same time.
When paired with, solar and a battery, you can create the most efficient use of your electricity.  Combined with the fact that most panels can be retrofitted vs replaced make this an extremely affordable way to modernize your home.

Question 5

Do Solar Panels Still Work In a Blackout

Accepted Answer

If you have a battery and the right kind of inverter, you can keep your lights on during a power outage! Without those extra components however, In the case of a power outage, your solar panel system will automatically disconnect from the grid. This is to ensure that utility workers and first responders are not hurt when your solar panels feed energy back into the grid.