F.A.Q.

Should I wait for solar technology to advance?

No, solar panel efficiency has improved dramatically in the past decade and has plateaued. Improvements in technology will never make up for the solar subsidies that are here to help you today! Also, the cost of solar has dropped almost 80% since 2008.

 

What happens when it hails?

Most solar panels are tested and rated to survive up to golf ball size hail at 60 MPH. In the event that your solar panels sustain damage, your homeowner's insurance will cover them. Just add them to your existing dwelling insurance for $20-$60 per year or less than $5 per month.

 

Will Solar increase my property value?

Yes, multiple studies have concluded that homes with solar systems are valued and sold at premium prices when compared with other similar homes in the area.

 

Will my property taxes increase because of added value from solar?

No, the states of Illinois and Texas offer 100% solar property tax exemption for those who install solar systems on their property.

 

What is an SREC?

An SREC is a solar renewable energy credit that has been given a dollar value based on the eligible marketplace in which the SREC can be sold. SREC's are measured in energy production; 1 SREC = 100,000 Watts or 1,000 kWh or 1 MWh (1,000 Watts = 1 kWh & 1,000kWh = 1MW) SREC's are tracked with a smart inverter which reports power production to parties with permission to view the systems production on a quarterly or annual basis. SREC's are popular in the Midwest & North East.

 

How long do solar panels last?

Solar panels typically come with a 25-year warranty and are expected to last 40+ years with minimal power degradation.

 

What is a Federal Tax Credit and who qualifies for it?

Homeowners and business owners who install solar systems before the end of fiscal year 2030 qualify for 30% of their solar system to be paid for by the Federal Government in the form of a tax credit. Although the government will not write you a check. They will provide you with a dollar for dollar tax credit that helps you pay significantly less federal income tax or none at all. (Please consult with your tax advisor to determine your eligibility).

 

What if the tax credit is larger than my tax liability?

For those homeowners who have little to no Federal tax liability. The solar investment tax credit or ITC can be written off or utilized over the course of 5 years or until it is exhausted by Federal Law. (Please consult with your tax advisor to determine your eligibility).

 

What is MACRS and who qualifies for it?

MACRS or Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System is a tax depreciation system used in the United States. Under MACRS, businesses that install qualified solar assets can depreciate a portion of the total investment. Business owners could qualify for 50% of their solar system to be paid for through tax incentives. Combine a grant or rebate with these tax incentives and you could be looking at a 1–4-year return on investment. (Please consult with your tax advisor to determine your eligibility).

 

What direction does my roof need to face?

If your roof faces between 90 & 270 degrees or East, South, or West you qualify. In some cases a slightly north facing roof is still able to have solar. If you have a flat roof, we can face the solar panels due south on a ballast system to maximize solar production.

 

What if I don't have a very good roof, but own land?

We can install a ground mount that faces due south maximizing your solar production and trench wiring to your home.

 

Will the solar system be to heavy for my roof?

The weight of the system is less than 3lbs per square foot, so a standard framed roof is more than adequate for solar.

 

Will the solar panels put holes in my roof?

We mount solar panels on a rail mounting system that is fastened about every four feet by making penetrations into roof rafters. On a standing seam metal roof, these attachments are made directly to the standing seam. We guarantee all roof work will be free from leaks. On a flat roof, we use a ballast system.

 

How will I know if the solar array is properly functioning?

All of our solar systems come with inverters and optimizers that monitor the systems power production. You will be able to see a live feed and historical production data using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

 

Do I need to worry about solar panels in the snow?

Snow in the MidWest is a reality we all have to live with. Fortunately, Solar panels are made to withstand snow loads and clear off fairly quickly after a sunny day. Snow does affect the power production of a solar system, but they are minor and are accounted for in our production models. On the plus side, solar systems actually perform better in cooler weather!

 

What happens if I produce more power than my home uses?

In most cases, your electric utility company will credit your electric utility bill in the event your meter reads less than it did in the prior month. We can check your utility companies net metering policy to help you determine if you will be credited for excess power.

 

Will I see a difference in my lights?

Your solar electricity is identical to the grid so you will never notice the difference.

 

Will I have power on a cloudy day or at night?

All of our solar systems are grid-tied so in the event, your system is not producing enough power to power your home or business. You simply buy power from your current electric provider just like normal.

 

If the power goes out, do I still have power?

In most cases when the grid goes down so will your solar system. Your solar system automatically turns off within 10 seconds of the grid going down unless you have battery backup or a generator.

 

 

WE MUST INFORM YOU THAT ANY LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE CONTAINED ON THIS WEBPAGE WAS NOT INTENDED OR WRITTEN TO BE USED.