Renewable Energy | Solar Panels, Battery Storage, Roofing, HVAC
Do you have questions about solar panels? You’re not alone! Even though solar has been around for a long time, many people want to know more before they choose if going solar is the right for their property. Getting to know PV panels is smart, so we have put together some of the most commonly asked questions about home solar panels and answered them in one place. From knowing how solar power works to knowing what happens to solar panels in weather, you’ll be smarter than ever about turning the sun into green energy once you’re done with these FAQs. Let’s get started. How Do Solar Panels Work? The short answer is that solar panels (comprised of photovoltaic - PV - cells) absorb and turn sunlight into electricity. The longer answer is that the silicon in PV panels, which is doped with boron to increase its conductivity, knocks electrons free from the sunlight that hits the panels. This creates an electrical current. Your panels convert the sunlight into direct current (DC) energy. How do solar panels work? Read the full article. Since most appliances in your home use alternating current (AC) power, your solar panels are connected to an inverter. The inverter changes the solar energy from DC to AC. From there, the energy is ready to be sent to your outlets and used in your home. How are Solar Panels Affected by Clouds and Rain? One of the biggest myths about solar power is that it won’t be effective when it’s cloudy. Homeowners who live in areas with a lot of sea fog, for instance, may be worried that getting solar power isn’t worth it. The reality is that solar panels can still capture sunlight even when it’s cloudy outside. In fact, panels can often produce up to 25% of their typical output even when clouds are present. When it’s raining, your solar panels may produce about 10% of their regular output. During weather events, your solar panels can draw upon their storage of saved energy so your home can stay off the grid until the sun comes out again. Read our article Does solar power work at night? Do Solar Panels Overheat? You want your solar panels in direct sunlight. But how much sun is too much sun? Some panels do operate with less efficiency in super hot temperatures. Solar panels are tested for efficiency at 77 degrees Fahrenheit, and they’re most efficient around that temperature. Panels will lose a certain amount of efficiency for every degree above 77 (this is called the temperature coefficient figure). If you’re living in the desert, you may want to select panels with a better temperature coefficient. Thin-film panels, which are started to gain steam, are also known to work quite efficiently in hot temperatures. It’s important to note that your panels will still work when they get hot, they may just take longer to generate the same amount of electricity as they do on cooler days. They will draw on stored energy to make up the difference. Learn how often you should care for your solar panels. How Many Solar Panels Does a Home Need? How many solar panels will you need to make the switch from grid power to self-sustaining solar power? There are a lot of factors that contribute to the answer, including the efficiency of the panels you choose and how much power you use every month. For a home that uses 5kW of power each month, you will require on average about 20 panels. You’ll need 300 square feet of roof space, ideally facing south. How many panels are needed to run a house? Read the full article. Can Solar Panels Be Recycled? If you’re entertaining the thought of going solar you probably care about the environment, and you’re asking yourself how you can recycle the panels when you’re done with them. The good news is that solar panels often last up to 30 years, so you won’t have to change them out often. If you inherit a home with outdated panels and want to upgrade them, however, the rules of recycling may be pertinent to you. The EU has a more organized system for recycling solar panels than the United States, but the US is started to get on board. Many of the components of solar panels, including glass and wiring, can easily be recycled. Groups like SEIA and some individual manufacturers are allowing customers to turn in old panels for repurposing or recycling. Learn how to decrease your carbon footprint. Are Solar Panels Expensive to Maintain? No, solar panels are not expensive to maintain. Regular cleanings represent the majority of your responsibility; depending on where you live and the type of panels you have, you may only need to clean the panels annually. It’s best to consult a professional when you need your panels cleaned and schedule the cleaning for a day that is partly cloudy whenever possible. Aside from cleaning, you won’t need to attend to your panels unless you notice something wrong. Many solar panels have a warranty of 25 years for parts and materials, so you can also count on free replacement components in many cases. Can Hail or Snow Damage My Solar Panels? Solar panels are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. In fact, they are tested to make sure they can survive through one-inch hail falling at a rate of 50 miles per hour. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) was itself faced with a hail storm, and of the thousands of solar panels on the organization’s campus, only one was broken in the end. When it comes to snow, the main problem is that snow coverage impedes panel efficiency. Many homeowners can simply wait for the snow to melt because the angle at which the panels are installed encourages the melted snow to naturally run downward. You can also hire a professional to come and clear the snow. Read more about the durability of solar panels. How Much Money Will I Save with Solar? The amount of money you save with solar may vary, but if you buy efficient panels and live in Southern California you are apt to save up to $40,000 over the course of your time in your home. You can use Google’s helpful Project Sunroof to estimate how much money solar panels can save you. The tool uses your address and current electric bill to provide you with an estimate. We answer the question we know that you have: Do solar panels really save you money? Can I Take My Solar Panels When I Move? Technically your solar panels are your property and you could take them with you to a new property. But you may not want to consider it when you factor in the increase in your home’s value. In California, a solar panel system that generates about 5kW could improve the worth of a home by tens of thousands. You’re typically better off to leave your solar panels in place, sell your home, and install a different system at your new address. Read more: Does solar really increase the value of your home? What is Net Metering? Many city grids, including SDGE have a program in place to buy your excess energy. Most homes with solar will create more energy than they need, so you may as well be paid for it! Net metering is a system by which homeowners who generate solar energy and remain connected to the grid will send their extra energy to the grid. Your utility company will pay you for this electricity and use it to offset the load for your neighbors. Anything beyond your personal “net” use is used to power your community. Read our full article on net metering. Solar power has the potential to make your household energy independent, reduce your carbon footprint, and help your community. When we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, we create new jobs and help protect the California landscape we all love so much. Solar energy is also helping local veterans get back to work after they complete their service. More of your questions are answered on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Selecting the proper solar company can prove to be a challenging task given that there are so many solar companies available at present. It is imperative to evaluate a solar company comprehensively so as to find the appropriate one for your personal requirements. In the subsequent paragraphs, we have mentioned some essential guidelines on how to choose the right solar company out there. Get in the appropriate mindset It is a fact that lots of individuals end up hiring an electrician or plumber for taking care of small projects around their homes. However, the majority of them do not have experience when it comes to solar energy and panels. How do you get started? It takes much more than simply hiring a plumber for fixing a leaky faucet when you are hiring a solar panel installer. Nevertheless, the task is somewhat less tedious than remodeling the kitchen. Therefore, you need to be prepared for some legwork although it is not actually that bad. The overall procedure of hiring a solar company will be similar to that of employing any other contractor. You need to perform adequate research on the company and also go through the contract meticulously. It will be imperative to come in touch with the company personally so as to get a proper idea regarding their competence. Get several quotations Make sure to get several quotes similar to any other project in your residence. This is essential for getting a fair price and also comparing the different credentials and proposals of the company you are looking for. For instance, you need to watch out for companies which assert that your residence is appropriate for solar while it is actually not. That is where Google Project Sunroof comes into play. An authentic company will let you know that it will be essential to fix your roof initially, or that your residence does not get adequate sunlight for the installation of solar panels. They will be walking away instead of selling you a system which will not work appropriately in the long run. However, an incompetent company will try to make the sale. Consequently, in case you receive as many as three quotes and a couple of companies inform you that your house is not appropriate for installing solar panels while the other one urges you to go for it, it will be sensible to ignore the third company. In this case, you should take into consideration other alternatives such as community solar. Having several quotes will enable you to make a comparison between different installation methods and equipment choices. For instance, you need to consider how the racking is going to be secured to your roof. Solar panel installers come with different experience levels, particularly in terms of more challenging materials for roofing like clay tile. A solar installation which is botched will be compromising your roof's waterproof integrity resulting in a considerable amount of money in damage eventually. For this reason, it will be imperative to ask the solar installer regarding what techniques will be used by them to ensure that you need not suffer from any problem after the completion of the installation. In case one company provides you with vague replies while the other listens to all of your questions patiently and promptly answers them, it will be prudent to go for the second company. Verify their experience Solar power is an industry which is developing rapidly while drawing quite a few professionals from various backgrounds. Although it can be somewhat tricky to come across a solar panel company with adequate experience, it definitely comes with some benefits. It is important to make certain that the project will not be dropped by the company before completion. Moreover, you should expect your solar panel installer to showcase systems which they have installed for past clients. Do not select a solar company on price only Although every individual likes to save cash, it will be unjustified on your part to always go with the most expensive quote. There are lots of differences in equipment as well as installation quality. Although it is feasible for your installer to be the most inexpensive one in your locality, you will not be able to know unless you have compared the proposals and performed your research. On the other hand, you will not be assured of getting higher quality by simply opting for the cheapest solar installer. Prefer companies which are local Make sure not to go for any solar company which has not been in business for more than a couple of years. Instead, try to choose a company with adequate experience. This can be found out by checking the Better Business Bureau, inquiring the company itself, or even visiting the company's website. It will be sensible to choose experienced companies since apart from being technically competent they will also remain in business for quite some time after the completion of your project in case you need warranty services afterward. In case you are residing in states like California, you will find it simpler to come across solar companies with more than ten years of experience. However, if you live in some other areas such as the Midwest, you might be forced to go for companies with much less experience since the solar industry is comparatively new in those areas. Verify whether the company is properly licensed A webpage is maintained by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council which will allow you to search for solar licensing requisites for your particular state. While some states will need specialized licenses, the others will allow any contractor to install panels with the license of an electrician. Moreover, the license of a general contractor might get the job done in some other states. As a matter of fact, you will also come across some states which do not need any license whatsoever. Check out the IREC website and read it meticulously since the solar photovoltaic installation will require different licensing terms as compared to solar thermal. In case a license is needed, ask any California solar company for the license number since states such as California will enable you to check licenses online. You might get only minimal info from the online license databases, like whether a license is a valid one. Nevertheless, others, such as California, provide more comprehensive information which even includes license violations made by companies. It is important to bear in mind that violations are going to be different when it comes to severity, and it will be unjustified to ignore a company simply because it has a violation on record. In case you are concerned about any reported violation, do not hesitate to ask the solar company regarding it. Go through online reviews The Better Business Bureau will be the best place for getting authentic online reviews. It is quite different from the remaining review sites on the web. After collecting customer complaints regarding any particular company, it is going to mediate that complaint between the company and the customer. It is important to go through the complaint carefully for understanding whether it actually represents a concern or not since a complaint might be a sort of misunderstanding between the company and the client or it might also identify poor practices made by that company. It will be possible to resolve any listed complaints as well. Resolved complaints will not be much of a concern, and it is likewise inevitable that a significant volume of business will be performed by a bigger company irrespective of how good it is and it might have some dissatisfied clients in the long run. Although the Better Business Bureau likewise enables the users to publish more conventional reviews, this will not be mediated by them. It is definitely worthwhile to go through company reviews on other sites; however, you need to be careful about those reviews. While online reviews will not be able to indicate the true quality, they can be manipulated as well. Try to refrain from using websites having a background of "pay-to-play" including well-known sites like ConsumerAffairs.com and Angies' List. As a matter of fact, Google and Yelp reviews appear to be more authentic than other similar sites on the web. Ask regarding warranties It is a fact that a photovoltaic system consists of lots of different components, and each one of them is covered by a particular warranty from the manufacturer. It is vital for the installer to explain every single of those in detail. The solar panel installer must offer a warranty of the parts of the system as well as the workmanship, and they should also cover replacement and labor charges of any malfunctioning component. Photovoltaic solar panels come with their individual warranties which are usually categorized into a couple of parts: warranty covering the workmanship and the materials, and another covering the power output. The panels are going to degrade in the course of time on most occasions generating a little less power every year. (This particular degradation ought to be less than 2% every year). A power warranty of 25 years is normal, and it is imperative for the product warranty to be a minimum of 10 years, and, on some occasions, even 25 years. One essential component of the system is the inverter system which should have its individual warranty period of at least 20 years. It is important for the racking system to be able to withstand any type of extreme weather for at least 20 years. Therefore, it is imperative for this component to have a strong warranty of 20 years. In case you are using batteries, make sure to know regarding the warranty since it is a costly component out there. Quality of the solar panels At present, 3 types of solar panels are usually employed throughout the industry, namely, polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and amorphous. Although amorphous panels are quite inexpensive, they are not much efficient as well as durable as compared to the other 2. In all probabilities, you have come across polycrystalline panels in your locality which are reputed for their blue shade and have become quite well-known during the past several years. They will be appropriate for individuals who have adequate space and do not want to invest a considerable amount of money in monocrystalline solar panels. Monocrystalline panels have increased in popularity during the last few years, and they can boast of having the maximum efficiency rate without needing plenty of space as well. Therefore, they will be appropriate for individuals having a large roof. Nevertheless, they are the most costly solar panels out there. It does not matter which solar panel you go for, it is imperative to make certain that the company selected by you will be able to provide those. You will come across some solar companies which will be able to provide 1 or 2 of these panels. You need to make sure that the panels are of top quality and also from authentic solar panel manufacturers. (On most occasions, third-party manufactures are used by the majority of the solar companies). Apart from this, you should go for durable solar panels which will be able to serve you for quite some time in the future. Payment options Although it is imperative to make lots of investment in order to go solar, you will also come across a number of financing options. Several of these lucrative options include power purchase agreements, green energy loans, as well as leasing options. All these options come with their individual positive plus negative aspects which you need to take into consideration prior to making a sensible financing decision. The first financing option mentioned here will be the green energy loans which were made particularly for individuals who like to transform to renewable green energy. The majority of these loans come with comparatively low rates of interest. You will be able to purchase the equipment using this option, and the balance can be paid off over time. The subsequent couple of options are quite similar. The power purchase agreement will allow you to rent the equipment and you need to pay for the energy used by you. Leasing options are also virtually similar where you will be renting the equipment; however, a specific amount has to be paid every month rather than paying at a time. You will not be able to own the equipment by using these 2 options. It is up to you to make a decision regarding which option is going to be appropriate for you. The choices can be discussed further after selecting a particular solar company. However, it is recommended for you to look for a solar company offering all these options. Conclusion Let us hope that these above-mentioned 10 tips will allow you to come across the right authentic solar company such as Semper Solaris which will provide proper service to you according to your personal requirements. Read more on solar panel facts before making your decision. Also, if you're a college student, don't forget to apply to our Semper Solaris Scholarship
There has been the ushering in the age of the usage of residential solar panels and solar battery storage. Across the nation, residential homes are engaging in shifting from the usage of electricity that is based on fossil fuel in order to be part of an economy that applies the usage of solar energy that is clean. This is impacted by the targets that have been set for the sake of reducing emissions during the crisis of climate change on a global scale. As a result, solar energy for residential use deserves much credit. We share much about the increase of the usage of solar energy via our 10 questions to save you many hours of research and reading. How much of a reduction in pricing has been experienced by residential solar in the most current times? When you like to be optimistic based on the kind of statistics that are presented to you, you will be pleased to note that the price of energy that is produced by solar efforts within the last ten years is a good starting point. Thus, it is noted that there has been a decrease in regard to the installation of solar panels in the United States at a rate of approximately seventy percent. In 2020, many Americans are giving more consideration to the usage of solar as an upgrade to their home that makes sense, as solar is now seen more than a commodity that is clean tech for businesses. Many people also look for solar panel facts to make sure statistics are accurate. At this present time, it is recognized that installing solar panels & battery storage for your home is truly a step in the right direction. What is the distinction in regard to the usage of solar concerning homes and the usage of solar concerning businesses? The operations of a business or town may be powered by a solar endeavor at the commercial level. Therefore, the usage of solar for a business or home do have the distinction of variations in terms of cost as well as price. It is noted that systems that are designed for residential solar usage are regarded as maintaining consistency in terms of size, such as an average of six kilowatts. Due to the scale of residential solar being rather small, solar panels for residences are most assuredly an upgrade in energy consumption that are attainable and they result in major savings on the electric bill. On the other side of the spectrum, when there is the usage of solar at the commercial level, there is a need for a massive investment in terms of finances. Also, there is the need to gain a large number of investors to back the project. What is the normal price for systems of solar panels that are intended for residential usage? The price of such a system will be based on the size of the system as well as the state where the residence is located. But it is noted that some data is available that can aid in forming the estimation of the price of solar panels in the United States in 2020. The simplest way to formulate a calculation for the price of solar energy for various sizes of systems is to engage in the usage of the ratio of dollars for each watt. During 2019, it was realized that homeowners had to pay about $2.91/W. This then shows the perspective that there has been a great decrease since 2008 when households had to pay a bit more than $8/W. If you desire to install a system of 6kW, then the cost will be around $17,460 when there is the application of a cost of $2.91/W prior to the implementation of rebates as well as tax credits. Is there any way to link the solar panels to the grid? What does net metering entail? In most cases, there is the linking of systems for residential solar usage to the grid. This allows for the efficiency of the implementation of net metering, which is noted as providing power for the home at night. Thus, net metering is an incentive for solar in which there is the provision of bill credits in such cases that there is an overproduction of electricity by the solar panels of the home. In such cases that the panels have not generated an adequate level of electricity, you are allowed to apply the usage of the bill credits in order to pay for the electricity that you have consumed on the grid. When you are not on the grid, you will not be able to access the usage of electricity via the local utility company. As a result, it will be necessary for you to have capabilities for the storage of energy in order to formulate a project that is fully off the grid. This means that it will be necessary to obtain a system of solar panels that are extra-large. Also, there will be the need for a method for the backing up of power in order to provide for your energy needs in such cases that there is not enough sun exposure for your solar panels. What is the length of time that is required for the installation of a system for residential solar usage? When you have consulted with the professionals who will be doing the installation of your solar system for your home and when they have made all the visits that are required for the site as well as all the stages of planning, then it will likely only be a few days for the installation of the system to be completed. There are various factors that impact the exact amount of time. Take into consideration, for example, that if you are implementing net metering, there will be the need for extra time for that process, as there must be the linking of the solar panels to the grid in a proper manner. But the good news is that overall, the process is regarded as being quite simple and fairly fast. The same thing goes for solar panel maintenance. If your roof does not meet the requirements, can you yet acquire some type of system for home solar usage? If you do not have a roof that is suitable for solar panels, there are other options. Two common methods for the sake of being able to have solar power without the need to engage in the installation of a system on your roof tend to be community solar gardens as well as installations that are grounded mounted. When there is the usage of solar as a community, this means that people in your community commit to engaging in the sharing of a designed system that provides solar energy. As well, systems that are ground mounted are a simple way to avoid any complications with roofing when you desire to have solar power for your own usage. When someone installs a system for home solar usage, can the person qualify for tax credits? When you install a system that is intended to provide home solar energy, there are two methods that are simple in regard to considering tax credits. The primary tax credit that comes to mind is the federal investment tax credit. The more popular reference to this type of credit is noted as being the solar tax credit. A tax credit is provided to you by the ITC in the amount of twenty-six percent of the full cost of the residential solar panel system that you have installed. But there is the stipulation that you must purchase the system. The second option is noted as being tax credits for your solar system that are offered at the state level. Take into consideration, for example, that California provides a credit that secures a reduction in the price of your system by as much as twenty-six percent in 2020. Based on the state where you reside, there may be some solar programs that are significant as well as tax credits that are highly beneficial in that they could help you to save a large amount of money. If I will not be in my residence for at least a period of twenty-five years, should I bother with installing a solar panel system? Many homeowners wonder what will transpire if they have to move from their home following the installation of their solar panels. Normally, such a system has a lifespan for about twenty-five years. In such a case that you do not expect to reside in your home for that length of time, you may conjecture whether it is sensible to install a solar panel system. The reality is that the value of your home will be greatly increased if you install a solar panel system. This can also contribute to making your home sell faster, as many people are thrilled when they find a home that already has a solar panel system that will permit them to save a lot of money on utility bills. How much of a residence is able to be powered via the usage of solar energy? [video width="760" height="508" mp4="https://www.sempersolaris.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/07-2021-SMP-Website-Blog-Images-760x340-35357-2.mp4" loop="true" autoplay="true"][/video] It would be great if all of the home could be powered in this way. But though such a system can provide the offset of much energy use, the truth is that solar panels cannot produce all the energy that you need for each day. A key manufacturer of solar products in the United States provides the recommendation that it is wise to have the provision of a cushion of twenty-five percent in regard to the calculations of the offset for the solar panel. The primary reason is that it is not possible for the operation of solar panels to always output energy at the maximum level on all occasions. There will be times when linkage to the grid will be necessary in order to obtain the full power that you require. But the good thing about net metering is that there is the benefit of those days when there is the surplus of solar energy production, as you will not have to pay for being connected to the grid when you need the grid for power. At what point, will the system of the home break even? It is common for a large number of homeowners to have an interest regarding the calculation of the period of payback regarding their solar panel system. This is noted as being the period of time that is needed in order for the savings that are achieved on the electric bill to engage in offsetting the price that was invested in the installation of the solar panel system. There is a range of break-even points across the nation. However, the average range is noted as being around the point of eight years for a solar panel payback.
Are you aware that scientists have spent thousands of years trying to understand the promising solar energy and its application? Yes, understanding the 'how' of harnessing the Sun's power and meaningful use has been an uphill task that has ignited various scientists' interest in developing a concrete solution. Below is a timeline of multiple achievements and milestones covering various human efforts to extract and use solar energy. How is solar energy extracted from sun rays? Through the use of Photovoltaic devices. These are a particular type of metal that, when exposed to sunlight, use the photovoltaic effect to produce electricity. It is estimated that the knowledge about this photovoltaic effect has existed for roughly two centuries, and for this reason, our history about the solar cells begins here. How was solar energy initially used? Theoretically, it is believed that humans began to use solar energy by 7th century B.C. History reviews that humans were using sunlight to ignite the fire using magnifying glass materials. 700 BC- The use of a magnifying lens to put on Sunlit Fires' Heat Ray'. Do you know by the 7th century B.C humans could make fire using a magnifying glass to concentrate sunlight? For instance, around. 214-212 B.C. historians hypnotize that Archimedes' a great Greek inventor, was able to apply solar energy by creating heat rays using multiple mirrors to concentrate sunlight. It is believed that he destroyed several ships by concentrating sunlight on those ships belonging to Greek enemies especially during the Siege of Syracuse. Although this Archimedes' invention's validity is not apparent, various experiments have shown that it could be possible but more unlikely to have been executed. Romans are also known to use mirrors to harness the solar power and using it as light torches during their religious ceremonies. The use of "burning mirrors" became prevalent among Roman, Greeks, and later to the Chinese civilization. When was the first invention of the solar panels? 1767- The invention of the first solar oven A solar oven, often known as the solar cooker, uses the heat created by concentrating sunlight to heat drinks or food. Solar cookers are in use to date and are cheaper and efficient compared to the previous models. They are the most popular heating solutions, especially world parts, with limited access to electricity. The device relies only on sunlight to function, and this means no fuel or electrical power is need for it to work. The first solar oven was invented in 1767 by Horace De Saussure, a renowned Swiss Physicist. By the time of invention, nobody could have thought that this invention could be among the most helpful innovations for the next two centuries by helping people prepare their lunch and dinner without using firewood. 1839 - The Photovoltaic Effect Discovery by Edmund Becquerel. One of the most critical years in the history of solar panels was 1839 when Edmund Becquerel, a 19-year-old French physicist, discovered that there is a voltage difference when specific material is exposed to sunlight created. With his little knowledge about the photovoltaic effect, Edmund Becquerel dint understands that his discovery would form the basis of solar power in use in modern today. In 1873, Willoughby Smith, a staunch English engineer, coined Photoconductivity in Selenium, especially in its solid-state, which was another significant discovery that led to a great milestone in the solar energy industry. 1876 - Invention of Electricity from Light. While advancing the Smiths discovery three years earlier, an English professor, together with his best student, Richard Evans Day, observed a flow of electrical current when specific material was exposed to sunlight. Two electrodes attached to a selenium plate were used to make the tiny electrical current after exposing those plates to the light. 1883 - the making of the first Design of a functional Photovoltaic Cell. The credit goes to Charles Fritts, an American inventor who was the first person to design a successive solar cell plan. His 19th-century simple Photovoltaic Cell design was based on selenium wafers. 1905- The Photoelectric Effect and Albert Einstein work. Although most people aren't aware of Albert Einstein's photoelectrical effect paperwork, he is famous for his outstanding scientific milestone in the human race. He is the first person to formulate the photon theory of light, an idea that explains how light can dislodge 'remove or liberate' an electron from a metal surface. Sixteen years later, in 1921, after submitting his photon theory of light paper, he received the Nobel Prize to discover a tremendous scientific breakthrough. 1918 - The discovery of a Single-Crystal Silicon. The credit goes to a Polish scientist, Jan Czochralski, for figuring out a technique in which to grow single-crystal silicon. His discovery lay the foundation for the creation of solar cells using silicon metal. 1954 - The actual invention of Photovoltaic The credit goes to three scientists, namely, Gerald Pearson, a member of Bell Labs, David Chapin, and Calvin Fuller. Their work led to the creation of the world's first solar cell (photovoltaic cell). In simple terms, these men came up with a device that could convert sunlight into electricity. Many maintain that their silicon photovoltaic (PV) cell invention symbolizes the real PV technology invention. The first device could consistently power a considerable electrical device for more than two hours a day. However, the first silicon photovoltaic cell could only operate at 4% efficiency, below a quarter of modern solar cells capacity. They later advanced its performance (conversions efficiently), increasing it from 4% to 11%. Today, these solar panels are so advanced that they are used to light big houses and run machines due to their improved efficiency. Other significant achievements in the history of solar panels. The use of solar panels to power outer space devices. The use of solar technology in outer space is one of the most recent solar energy industry achievements. The outer space solar panels were used to run satellites. A good example is solar panels power Explorer III, Vanguard II, and Sputnik-3 satellites in 1958. Others include creating the first solar residence in 1973 by a team of scientists at the University of Delaware, Improving solar conversion efficiency from 8% to 14% by Hoffman Electronics amid 1957 and 1960. By 2016, the conversion efficiency had reached 34.5% efficiency and innovation from The University of South Wales.
Tesla is a leading American company famous for manufacturing electric vehicles. The company is moving forward to bring innovations in other industries. Tesla Powerwall is a step towards this direction. This innovative technology can help to store energy for residential and commercial usages. Tesla Powerwall is a lithium-ion battery that you can use as an alternative to power your home. You can use this as a backup to support your energy needs. This is a wall or floor-mounted battery system designed to store energy generated by wind turbines, solar power panels or the grid (electric company). You can use Powerwall daily to power your home. Each battery can store up to 13.5 kWh of energy, weighs 251.3 pounds, and offers an easy installation. You can install it both inside and outside of your home. However, the installation needs to be done by a certified technician. Semper Solaris is a proud Tesla Powerwall certified installer. How to Use Tesla Powerwall There are three ways to use Powerwall. You can get a complete power source to meet the energy needs of your home. Its off-grid approach will enable users to power their homes fully by using the solar battery storage. You can install one or two Powerwall batteries depending on your requirements. Powerwall can be considered as a supplementary power source for your home during the evening or when you need it most. Powerwall can be ideal for the backup power supply in case of a power outage or blackout. Once installed, it can be accessed through the intuitive, easy to use dashboard. The dashboard gives you control of power being used in your home and allows you to adjust the time and settings of your Powerwall. How Does A Tesla Powerwall Work? Each part of the Powerwall system will be plugged into the electrical panel of your home. The Powerwall will collect and store energy. You will need a setup with a few components, and it will be installed in your house. Powerwall Battery Pack This is one of the crucial components of a system. This pack will merge with your electrical panel to enable you to use the solar storage for emergency or daily use. Solar Panels Solar panels are the best option to convert solar energy into electricity. The solar panel will store solar energy during the day hours to be used at night when solar panels are not receiving sunlight. Inverter The inverter is what will convert solar energy into electricity. With the Tesla Powerwall, the inverter is built into the battery. Backup For the backup usage, you will need to download the Tesla mobile app to view and set up backup for your Powerwall. According to Tesla, “Powerwall is now designed for whole home backup. With whole home backup, your Powerwall system can support your entire home with backup power during an outage.” Tesla Powerwall is supported by ten years warranty. It is designed to offer a worry-free approach to meet the energy needs of your home or office. Charging Your Powerwall Tesla Powerwall is a great way to store any unused energy for future use or emergencies. To use your Powerwall, in any situation, you must charge it. Powerwall and the Grid According to PG&E, battery storage has two main functions, to charge and discharge. Charging can be done through your solar system or through the grid, or the electric company. Discharging is using the stored energy from your battery storage or returning it to the grid. Tesla Powerwall can be installed in your home with or without solar. When Powerwall is installed with solar, it will not be able to be charged from the grid, as it will be charged from the solar panels on your home. When Powerwall is installed without solar, it can be charged from the grid, or electric company, if it is in Backup-Only or Time-Based Control. Backup Only According to Tesla, "Backup power mode or Backup-Only reserves 100 percent of your Powerwall energy to provide seamless power to your home in the event of an outage. Powerwall will charge from the grid or from your solar system, and only discharge during a grid outage." Advanced Time-Based Control Time-Based Control helps you maximize savings by smartly charging or discharging your Powerwall" according to Tesla.
In Carmel Valley, we are informed and concerned about the world beyond our own backyards. We are conservation conscious and engaged in finding answers for the world’s problems through technology, whether from global warming or world hunger, disease, and poverty. From lowering electric bills to saving the planet, solar power leads the way in solving critical issues we face in our homes, communities, and across the globe. Cost-effective, perpetually available, and technologically viable, the awesome power of the sun is providing answers to difficult problems that once seemed impossible. Semper Solaris is committed to a safe and sustainable world through renewable energy. We are a solar company on the forefront of promoting residential and commercial solar installations. We believe Solar Power holds the potential for a better world for all. We are the best solar company for Carmel Valley solar solutions for the rooftop and beyond. Saving the planet We all know about greenhouse gases, carbon footprint, and moving towards a clean environment with renewable energy. At Semper Solaris, we understand the effect of fossil fuels on the environment and are committed to protecting it. Solar power is the leading alternative to fossil fuels and the most efficient way to achieve the goals of a sustainable world whether it is solar power in Carmel Valley or remote countries across the globe. Air Pollution Solar Power can reduce and eliminate the release of dangerous pollutants into the atmosphere like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous causing greenhouse gases and hazardous air. Toxic Water The most significant percentage of toxic water pollution comes from coal-fired power plants. The use of solar power will go a long way toward reducing toxic waterways. Hazardous Waste Toxic waste is dumped into landfills, abandoned mines, and poisonous pools. The waste from fossil fuel byproducts fossil has dangerous levels of metal toxicity. Solar power is clean energy and does not produce hazardous waste. Ocean Acidification Fossil Fuel emissions released into the air and absorbed into the ocean has altered the chemistry of the sea, making it more and more acidic. Acidification is causing a mutation of the ecosystem and threatens not only the fish and wildlife but erodes the attributes of the ocean by which shellfish, coral reefs and necessary organisms for sea life thrive. Solar power is on the pioneering forefront of the conservation of the air and sea. Protecting the environment protects you and your family from diseases caused by pollution and other environmental issues. Solar power is clean and plentiful, and rooftop solar in homes and the city is the wave of the future. Semper Solaris is the most knowledgeable and experienced at solar installation in Carmel Valley. Solar technology and electricity The need for electricity worldwide is increasing as more innovative technologies are added to the mix of things powered by electricity. Energy driven appliances and even medical devices have become necessary for sustenance and quality of life in our modern world. Solar power is cost-effective, and the sunlight is free, making it the most economical way to bring more electricity to communities across the globe. Refrigeration Air Conditioning Communication Electric Powered Transportation Innovation and Invention Medical Equipment Global Poverty Solar power provides access to the electrical power needed to fuel the modern necessities of life that we enjoy in America. The poor of the world spend exponentially more on electricity that comes from inefficient sources like fossil fuel plants and poorly constructed and maintained transmission lines. Solar is a key component in fighting poverty worldwide. Global Water Scarcity Throughout the world, there are places with a shortage of drinking water due to pollution and mismanagement and even drought. Whether from natural or human origins, the lack of safe water and demand for water resources has increased faster than population growth in some countries of the world. Solar power is a means for solving the global water crisis by providing renewable energy that reduces water pollution and, unlike fossil fuels, does not use water to generate power. In fact, Solar Technology may be the answer to the global water crisis as scientific advances emerge from innovation and discovery. Solar power helping the homeless Here at home, we know too well that there is a severe homelessness problem. Basics like food, shelter, water, and power are not readily available to the homeless who face the hazards of living day to day without those necessities of life enjoyed by most of us locally and globally. Solar power is here again on the front-lines producing answers. Solar energy is being deployed globally to help the homeless live safer and providing some of the essential tools for survival. More importantly, solar power is a means of transitioning out of homelessness. Solar Innovations help the homeless: An all-girl engineering team from the San Fernando valley creates a solar-powered tent for the homeless. Solar Suitcases provide lighting and charging stations so people can contact necessary services or look for jobs. Homeless encampments provide tiny homes using solar power. Solar-powered pods are complete with kitchens and bathrooms Outdoor solar-powered showers in London. And the list of solar solutions goes on as we move towards a world that offers simple, technology-based answers to complex issues. The feasibility of solving major world problems or protecting the environment through solar power in the world and solar power in Carmel Valley is both economically and technologically attainable. Semper Solaris supports helping the world achieve sustainability and those living in poverty live better lives. Clean air and water are essential to health and wellbeing. Clean, cheap, and readily available, solar power is the future of a sustainable, equitable world. We are experts in the field and are the best solar company in Carmel Valley. Call us today! If you don’t yet have a solar system installed, now is the time to join the future of renewable energy and help solve big world problems, starting with your home. Click here to learn more about solar in Carmel Valley.
Fossil fuels have long been discovered to be not only harmful for the environment and public health, but also finite. This makes them much less sustainable, more unpredictable, and more expensive than renewable energy sources like wind, water, and solar. For the average homeowner, the most accessible way to be a part of the sustainable energy movement is the investment in a solar energy system. How Solar Panels Can Be Utilized in Your Community Having solar panels in Encinitas can be very beneficial for homeowners, especially considering the extensive amount of the sun the area receives coupled with high electricity costs (37.63% higher than the national average). If you are wondering how you can make solar panels work for your home. What Makes Going Solar So Appealing? As a renewable energy source, there are many benefits that fossil fuels simply can’t offer. While there are also some disadvantages to consider, we believe the long-term benefits of renewable energy far outweigh more traditional energy sources. At the end of the day, we need to move towards what is more sustainable for the future of our planets -- and, of course, our wallets! Protects the Environment & Public Health With the dominant use of fossil fuels over the years, there is no doubt that water and air pollution and other damages have plagued the globe. While renewable energy sources do generate some greenhouse gases and pollutants in the process of converting the energy, it is very miniscule in comparison to the damage fossil fuels can do. Solar and other renewable sources can greatly reduce our carbon footprint as well as health issues such as respiratory and cardiac problems that stem from fossil fuel pollutants. More Savings Over Time Renewable energy sources offer great savings, providing more accessible resources that can significantly reduce expenses with long term use. Depending on the size of the system you invest in, the amount of electricity you use, and the amount of sunshine your area gets, you could be looking at even more savings. On top of the savings to your electricity bills, as a homeowner you get the benefit of added value to your property. Studies have shown that homes with solar panels not only sell for a higher price, but also sell quicker than comparable homes without solar panels. Renewable Energy Requires Minimal Maintenance Compared to generators designed to use fossil fuel sources, renewable energy systems will typically require much less maintenance. Why? Renewable energy systems are designed simply to thrive in the elements and experience much less wear and tear. Solar panels, for example, have fewer parts and are not dependent on a flammable or dangerous fuel source that could cause damage to the system trying to utilize it. Further, solar panels are designed to last decades. While warranties typically extend up to 25 to 30 years, some solar panels could perform efficiently for as long as 80+ years depending on the rate of degradation. Cuts Back on Foreign Energy Reliance Your solar panels allow you to produce energy directly in Encinitas, making it a local energy producer compared to many fossil fuel systems that rely on foreign energy resources. Other renewable energy resources also produce from their local area, cutting back dependence on imported energy sources. The less dependent the U.S. is on foreign energy providers, the more protected our economy remains, especially if we are producing the energy ourselves through sustainable methods. Things to Consider Before Embracing Sustainable Energy So what are some disadvantages homeowners interested in getting behind solar need to think through? There are more upfront costs associated with getting your system up and running compared to simply plugging into the grid. Also, if you don’t live in a very sunny area, there can be intermittency (and you also have to consider that your panels can’t obtain energy from the sun during the nighttime). While solar storage is becoming more available, not every homeowner wants to be completely independent from the grid -- you will, however, gain much more control of your electricity bills in the face of rising electricity costs and often get credits for any energy produced during the daytime that you didn’t use, which can be credited towards electricity you use from the grid after the sun goes down. So all that said, yes, there are some drawbacks that traditional energy sources don’t have, but solar technology only continues to improve and become more affordable, shrinking the drawbacks even more. Join the Renewable Energy Movement Today With numerous state incentives, rebates, and tax credits available to homeowners looking to invest in renewable energy, solar installation in Encinitas is easier and more affordable than ever before. Transitioning to solar energy can not only help you save money in the long run, but also helps protect our environment, public health, and add value to your home. All of these factors make switching to sustainable solar energy extremely beneficial. Whether you are looking to be completely independent from the grid and rising electricity costs or just want to help supplement your current electricity bills by using the maximum solar power when possible, our solar contractors are ready to find the right option for you. We have years of collective experience, believe in hiring vets to provide exceptional service and support, and offer a range of solar panels for our customers’ specific needs. We’ll walk you through the process to ensure you understand all the benefits of solar panels’ sustainable energy and help you determine if this is the right time for you to install a system on your home. Still have questions? Semper Solaris can provide the answers. Learn more about Solar in Encinitas!
While fossil fuels are the main source of electricity in the U.S., they are very costly -- both in the financial cost to harvest these fuel sources and the negative impact they are having on our environment. There is no denying that solar will be cheaper in the long run (technically the sun’s energy is free!) and helpful for the environment. While solar panel systems still cost money to develop in order to convert the sun’s energy into usable electricity, it is growing more and more affordable as technology develops. Further, fossil fuels are arguably becoming more and more scarce, as there are limited resources available on our earth. On the other hand, the sun’s power is extremely consistent and unending. By switching over more and more applications to solar energy, we can help reduce our dependence on harmful and waning fossil fuels and protect the long-term health of our environment. Types of Energy Sources Fossil fuels are made up of once living organisms that have taken centuries to break down and transform into their current state. They primarily include carbon and hydrogen bonds. The most common fossil fuels include: CoalNatural GasOil Renewable energy are sources of energy that come from naturally replenishing sources and cleaner processes than modern fossil fuels. The most common types of renewable energy include: Solar PowerWind PowerHydroelectric PowerGeothermal PowerBiomass Power Benefits of Renewable Energy When it comes to solar and other renewable energy sources, there are many benefits. In addition to improving the health of communities, renewable energy greatly impacts the health of the environment. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar provides a source of clean and renewable power, reducing the carbon footprint across California, the U.S., and the entire globe. Fossil fuel burning results in greenhouse gas emissions, pollution of our air, pollution of our water, wildlife and land damage, and other environmental problems. According to a study done by The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine, renewable energy options produce much lower greenhouse gas emissions “per unit of electricity produced” compared to how much coal and natural gas plants will produce. However, some renewable energy options like biomass and geothermal can be just as harmful as fossil fuels, which is why more research must be done on these alternative options. Solar and wind power still lead the way in the most clean and growingly affordable renewable sources. In regards to solar, the U.S. Energy Information Administration found that by switching to solar power, an average-sized home in Connecticut (which uses about 8,756 kilowatt-hours of electricity a year) could greatly reduce emissions. Essentially, it was the equivalent to planting 155 new trees -- every year. That is just one small example of what switching to solar and other alternative options could do for our environment. The Bay Area is leading the way in ushering in renewable energy. Interested in learning more about your solar options? Contact Semper Solaris’ today.
While current solar technology is still fairly new, the power of the sun is no modern revelation. The sun is the most powerful and consistent source of energy available to humans. The first solar device to produce a notable amount of electricity was created in 1954 at Bell Labs. Just several years later, the technology was being used in a few select projects, but would soon explode in interested by the 1970s due to current energy concerns. Unfortunately, the high price of PV production prevented more large-scale use of solar technology. Thanks to significant research and developments, modern solar technology is becoming more and more affordable for average homeowners and businesses across the globe. What You Need to Know About Photovoltaic Technology So what does modern solar technology look like today? Photovoltaic, or PV, devices harness sunlight and turn it into electricity. The key? The materials used to make solar arrays or panels are natural semiconductors. When the electrons in them are struck by photons (energy of the sun), they are freed up from their atomic bonds, allowing them to travel through an electrical circuit to provide useable electricity. This can then be used to power electronic devices or sent to a local electricity grid. Essentially, the uses of solar energy can reach beyond just a single home and stretch out to an entire community, even if some of the homes in that area don’t have solar panels. From homes to commercial businesses, solar panels can power both personal devices and large-scale facilities. Common Types of PVs Crystalline silicon (c-Si) - Accounting for about 90% of the globe’s PVs, c-Si is extremely popular due to it's durability and efficiency. Other variations include monocrystalline, polycrystalline and string ribbon PVs. Thin-film PV - Though less efficient than traditional c-Si arrays, these panels are more affordable to produce, thus creating a fast-growing market for cheaper priced solar panel systems. Concentrating PV - These panels are typically seen in vast desert areas, utilizing lenses and mirrors to reflect the power of the sun in a more concentrated manner onto highly efficient cells.Multi-junction / tandem cells - These specialized solar cells are typically reserved for specific projects that require lightweight material and extremely efficient production, making them a prime choice for satellites and military uses. Where PV Technology Is Going While having a solar panel system installed on a home seemed like a great luxury a decade ago, the dropping cost of PV has made solar more and more accessible to homeowners across the U.S. The industry has seen a great demand for more sustainable and renewable energy options, driving up manufacturing and pushing for improved technology and more efficient materials. Though the U.S. is the fourth largest market for PV installations, it is still behind other smaller countries that aren’t as dependent on fossil fuels. The more the U.S. and other major countries adopt this technology, the more it is likely to develop. Questions? Reach out to our Orange County solar company for helpful answers.
PPA vs. Lease: What’s Right for Solar? When it comes to getting a solar panel system installed on your roof, there are many decisions to be made – including tough financial decisions. For some homeowners, the ability to finance a system may not be possible. This is where solar leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) come into play. These are two options available to homeowners who are looking to save on their electricity bills by switching to solar without carrying the full financial burden of financing or paying off their own solar system. Under both a solar lease and solar PPA, the homeowner themselves will not own the actual solar energy installation placed onto their roof. Instead, a PPA or lease company has true ownership over the system. While very similar, PPAs and leases have some very distinct differences between them. Selecting the right one for your project is important! Breaking Down Your Solar Options Solar leases – Under this type of agreement, a homeowner doesn’t own any of the equipment installed on their roof or connected to their home. They will still have the same interaction with their utility company in terms of buying and selling electricity (i.e. net metering), just as someone who actually owned their solar panels would. A homeowner can expect to pay monthly rent throughout the terms of the agreement, which can range from around 20 to 25 years. Solar PPAs – Under this type of agreement, the homeowner doesn’t own the equipment or even make any leasing payments. Instead, the PPA company comes in and installs their solar panel system on the house and actually sells the homeowner the electricity produced by the panels for a negotiated rate. With a PPA, the homeowner can either opt to pay for only the electricity they actually end up using or a fixed monthly amount, depending on the agreement details. Similarly to a lease, the agreements tend to run up to 25 years. The specifics of the agreements can vary based on homeowner preference. For example, a contractor may offer zero down, free installation, a down payment, prepaid leases, varying kW sizes, and other factors. Make the Best Solar Choice for Your Needs So what’s the better option, a solar lease or PPA? At the end of the day, it comes down to what makes the most sense for your particular situation. You may prefer to not have a lease payment and be able to negotiate on the pricing of your electricity with a PPA or like the flexibility of leasing panels while buying / selling the electricity produced by it. The last option available to homeowners is financing or paying cash. For those that are able to, this is the most financially beneficial, as the homeowner will typically be able to pay offer the system in 12 or less years. Still, both solar leases and PPA agreement are viable options for those that want to benefit from the perks of solar without all the upfront costs. Still interested in learning more about your different solar payment options in San Diego? Semper Solaris is here to provide insight. Schedule your free energy analysis now!
