The latest news in solar and electrical
Solar Panel Warranties: 4 Things You Need to Know
You’re looking forward to switching the house over to solar, but you wonder about the types of solar panel warranties available for homeowners. Before you make the conversion, it helps to understand the differences between a solar performance, product and service warranty.
Different types of home solar panel systems offer different solar panel warranties, so keep these four important considerations in mind as you finalize your decision about products and services.
Troubleshooting Solar Panels: 4 Common Problems and Solutions
Home solar systems are unique, and so are the challenges that come with owning them. Keep in mind that solar systems are relatively maintenance free and most issues, if not all, can be alleviated if you use an experienced installer. However, it is always wise to familiarize yourself with some of the most common solar panel problems. Use these tips on troubleshooting solar panels for your confidence and peace of mind.
Solar Energy Pros and Cons: Understand These 5 Simple Facts
Energy solutions aren’t “one size fits all.” Homes and businesses are unique, and so are their power needs. In other words, your choice should suit you. Do you know whether the good features of solar energy outweigh the negatives?
No technology is perfect, but home solar panels have some cool advantages. These facts should clear up any misconceptions.
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need to Charge My Electric Car?
Some technologies seem to go hand in hand, and solar charging for electric vehicles is a prime example. Why fill a gas tank when you can install a solar system for your home and use the sun for free?
Even though solar installations and electric vehicles go together, it may be hard to find the perfect match. For instance, how many solar panels will it take to charge a Tesla? What about a Chevy Volt? These tips will shed some light on the issue.
8 Simple Tips for Going Green at Home
Are you curious about going green at home? If you’re a business, there are many ways to go green – and the same applies to homes. Protecting the environment is important, but you don’t need to rethink your whole lifestyle to do it. It’s especially easy if you’re already considering installing home solar panels.
The Federal Solar Tax Credit: What You Need to Know [2024]
Could investing in solar energy pay off sooner than you think?
The short answer is yes.
Many residential home solar power systems are eligible for a federal solar tax credit (also called the Investment Tax Credit, or ITC).
At the time of this writing, you can get up to 30% of your eligible installation costs back by claiming the tax credit when you file with the IRS.
The ITC benefits residential and commercial customers, and there is no cap on its value.
If you’re wondering how the solar tax credit works in 2024, we cover everything you need to know in this post.
Let’s dive in.
Could Ground-mounted Solar Panels Be Right for Your Home?
Are you excited about installing solar panels but unsure whether your roof is the best place for them? Maybe you’d just rather keep yours out of sight. Fortunately, solar mounting systems give you plenty of convenient options. Ground-based installations let you do more with unused space and still enjoy the benefits of a solar home.
Ground-mounted solar panels perform the same work as the rooftop kind, but there are some important differences to consider. Here’s how these home solar panels might improve your property’s value and your system’s return on investment.
What Trade Politics Might Mean for Solar Panel Prices
Purchasing home solar panels is a great option for people who care about environmental stewardship. Of course, pricing is also an important consideration. When you ask yourself “Why should I go solar,” it’s only natural to follow up with “How much should my solar panels cost?”
As we’ve covered before, numerous factors affect solar panel prices. What often goes undiscussed, however, is the role that politics play in what you pay. Here’s a current, real-world example that might shed some light on the issue.
Do Solar Panels Add Value to Your Home?
Are you interested in increasing your home’s resale value? Whether you prefer investing in new countertops, cabinets or major appliances, there are many functional ways to heighten your residence’s equity. Some options, such as installing siding, insulation or home solar panels, offer benefits that provide you with high-functioning, energy-efficient returns.
Just how much do solar panels increase the value of your home? It depends on your specific system. Here’s how to understand your potential gains.
Solar vs. Wind: Residential Power Choices Made Simple
When you want to make your home more ecologically friendly, choosing renewable power is a surefire way to get started. Do you know what kind of system might be the best fit for your property?
Many factors are at play in the battle of solar versus wind for homes. Understanding these basics could help you stay green without making your life overly complicated.
Solar Panel Monitoring Methods: 4 Futuristic Tech Features
After investing in a home solar panel installation, it’s helpful to know what kind of return it’s generating. Fortunately, you don’t have to be content with relying on someone else’s word when it comes to your system’s performance. Modern solar panel monitoring methods give you plenty of convenient options for tracking everything from efficiency to long-term usage and hardware settings.
Are you the type of person who prefers taking a hands-on approach to your favorite gadgets? PV system monitoring is a good way to get more involved. Here’s why you should be excited about the benefits of proactive solar panel ownership.
How to Take Advantage of the SGIP Rebate Incentive Program in 2018
Are you taking advantage of every stimulus initiative available for your solar power upgrade project? If not, then you may be missing out on significant financial benefits.
The California Self Generation Incentive Program, or SGIP, isn’t specifically geared towards solar. Make no mistake, however, because this rebate has the potential to reduce your upfront costs. Here’s how you might benefit.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost? 3 Points to Consider
From protecting the planet to lowering your energy bills along with your carbon footprint, solar panels are appealing alternative energy options. Of course, it’s easier to justify making the change when you have a firm grasp on the cost of solar panels. Although you can obtain quotes for your home solar power system with minimal effort, this is only the first step.
Are you confident in your understanding of what your estimate actually entails? These tips will make it easier to decipher the content.
5 Cool Solar Energy Uses and Applications in Everyday Life
Could you simplify your daily routine by putting the sun to work?
You might be surprised at just how many practical uses of solar energy there truly are.
From the residential solar panel installations that you’ve seen around town to agricultural production systems, renewable energy has the potential to change your life in more ways than one.
Here are five incredible applications of solar energy.
Monterey Bay Community Power: How Will it Affect Central Coast Homeowners?
The Monterey Bay Community Power project has been making headlines lately, but what does it mean for your family or business? Californian pioneers of the renewable power industry believe that this initiative represents a chance to make major strides in clean energy, especially for citizens and business owners who’re considering purchasing solar panels in Monterey.