What’s in Your Solar System

The key components of any Solar System are dependent on whether it’s mounted on your roof or on the ground.  For roof mounted systems, there are 3 parts:

1)      The mounting system – this includes the foot jacks that attach to the roof and the racking systems that support the solar panels

2)      The panels – this includes the attachments to the racking system and the wiring necessary to move the DC current to the inverter(s)

3)      Inverters – this part converts the DC current generated by each panel into usable AC current.  Some systems have a single inverter, where each panel is connected to a central wire and fed into the inverter, and the current is converted to DC.  Some systems have micro-inverters on each panel, which means that every panel is sending AC current to the electrical box

4)      Wiring to and from the Electrical Box – this includes all wiring from the box to the meter and the shut off switch, connecting through conduits to the inverter or the panels on the roof

For ground-mounted systems, the parts are similar except for the addition of several support poles that hold the panels above ground.  Additionally, most ground mount systems require an underground trench so that wiring from the panels can be connected to the Electrical Box without being exposed to potential damage. 

These components can usually be installed in 2-3 days, but the system is not fully operational until all inspections (state, local, utility) are complete. 

Visit our website for more on solar!

Why is now such a good time for Solar?

Despite some of the bad publicity about a few Solar companies, specifically Solyndra, the industry overall is very healthy and provides significant financial and environmental benefits to homeowners and businesses. 

There are 3 good reasons why going Solar now is an ideal option – it’s all about saving on your utility bills.

1)      You can save immediately on your electric rate, and lock these rates in for 20 years with a Power Purchase Agreement!  This is very attractive when utility rates continue to climb at 3-5% per year

2)      Current Lease and Power Purchase Agreements do not require an upfront investment – a huge hurdle for many

3)      Panel prices have come down significantly and Financing companies can pass this on to homeowners

The two most common ways for homeowners to go Solar are through a standard Lease or a Power Purchase agreement.  A Solar lease means a homeowner will have the system installed on their roof, or in their yard, and a pay a flat monthly rental fee for the use of the electricity generated by the system.  A Power Purchase Agreement means the homeowner agrees to purchase the power generated from their roof at a lower cost (per KWh) than the utility provides, and lock in these rates for 20 years or more.  This ensures the homeowner will have a hedge against utility price increases for many years. 

So, there’s never been a better time.  If you and your home qualify, it makes perfect sense to go Solar!  Why do you want to go Solar?

For more information on residential solar, click here:  http://www.1stlightenergy.com/solar-services/residential-introduction/