Solar Power | Solar Panels, Battery Storage, Roofing, HVAC
As solar energy becomes a more popular renewable energy source, switching becomes more and more attractive to homeowners. There are numerous factors to weigh, especially the cost of investing in solar panels compared to the rising cost of electricity. Any type of change can be somewhat intimidating at first. You may be wondering if switching to solar power would be too much of a hassle or if the panels will even last long enough to make the switch worth it. If you need a little motivation to push you over to the solar side, Semper Solaris is here to help. Top Motivations for Going Solar Promotes a Healthier Environment The earth is full of precious resources that people have been harvesting and using for countless years. However, other resources -- such as certain fossil fuels -- have been causing serious damage to the environment. The health of our environment should far outweigh the benefits of fossil fuels – which is why solar energy has gained significant popularity in the last few decades. The more homes and businesses that switch to solar, the less our world is reliant on more harmful fossil fuels. Instead of being dependent on fossil fuels, a switch to primarily solar can significantly cut back on greenhouse gas emissions. Not only that, but studies have found that if solar energy was adopted on a wider scale, various respiratory problems could be lessened as well. For example, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that an increase in solar energy usage vs. fossil fuels would cut back on harmful emissions that can sometimes result in bronchitis, respiratory issues, and even cardiovascular problems. Solar Helps Boost the Economy There is no denying that the market for solar is booming. In fact, the International Renewable Energy Agency reported that solar employment has grown 17 times faster than the rest of the country’s economy. More than 250,000 people were employed in the solar industry in 2017, with numbers expected to continue to grow. Gives You Back Control of Your Utility Bills Having to stress over the rise and fall of electricity costs can be stressful. You have to monitor and track your use, be conservative with your usage at times that may be convenient, and ultimately, don’t have any control over the prices you are charged. The good news? Switching to solar energy gives you back control. With a solar panel system, you are able to convert the sun’s rays into usable energy for all your household needs. Another positive? In most areas, any excess electricity created will go to the grid and be credited back to you, which means during the evening or on cloudy days, you still have your electricity needs covered. These are just a few of the most compelling reasons to switch to solar, so if you’d like to learn more about going solar, our solar panel experts can provide insight.
Semper Solaris is proud to be one of the top solar installers in Southern California. The demand for solar panel systems has never been greater; however, that also means the demand for information and insight on solar energy is also in high demand. We understand that homeowners have lots of questions before diving into the solar energy world – ranging from how much panels cost to how they actually work – which is why we strive to provide all the info they need to make informed decisions. Fact #1: Solar Energy Is Free & Abundant Coming from the powerful rays of the sun, solar energy is a free resource available across the globe. The only costs come from actually harvesting the power of the sun, such as manufacturing, installing, and maintaining a solar panel system. Even still, the fact that the sun is readily available to produce solar energy throughout the day is a reassuring fact in light of the depleting nature of fossil fuels. Fact #2: Solar Is Growing to a Favored Energy Source Solar energy has many advantages and long-term benefits for the planet as a whole. Due to its minimal impact, solar is considered one of the most popular renewable energy sources. Because of this, solar has grown to be a leading renewable energy source, with states like California pushing to be completely renewable energy dependent in less than 30 years. Fact #3: Solar Is a Non-Polluting Energy Source Not only is solar energy considered one of the top sources of renewable energy, but it also counteracts the Greenhouse effect on the earth’s climate. The recent global warming issue is thought to be caused greatly by human’s significant use of fossil fuels. In fact, solar energy doesn’t produce any pollution, which means it doesn’t harm the environment like other energy sources do. While there are other renewable energy sources on the market, solar energy is one of the most broadly accepted and used as technology continues to be developed for converting solar energy into electricity. Fact #4: Solar Panels Are Basically Maintenance Free Unlike other home applications, solar panels require little to no maintenance, making them a hassle-free energy source. Solar panels convert power and send it to batteries that don’t need any service or tune-ups, allowing them to last for years with minimal work. Further, once a homeowner has had their solar panels installed and paid for, there are basically no recurring expenses. Fact #5: The Price of Going Solar Is Becoming More Affordable When solar energy was first introduced, it was used by limited groups. Now, countless homeowners across the country have solar panels installed on top of their homes, allowing them to harvest the power of the sun on a daily basis. As the technology continues to improve and advancements are made in the conversion and storage of renewable energy, the cost of having solar panels installed will continue to become more attainable for homeowners and business owners alike. Solar also helps cut down expenses for homeowners, reducing electricity bills and giving them more control.
There has been a rising interest in solar battery storage in recent years. While most homes are still tied to power grids, a solar battery like Tesla Powerwall would allow homeowners to move closer to being “off the grid” for good. For most, the allure of complete autonomy when it comes to electricity production and usage is very enticing. One of the biggest perks of having a solar panel system is to provide more self-sufficiency, after all, and a solar storage battery is just another step towards independence from utility companies that continue to hike electricity prices. That is why we are going to take a look at the benefits and pitfalls of both traditional grid-tied solar power systems and solar power systems backed by battery storage. How Does a Grid-tied Solar Power System Work? Having a solar power system for your home gives you much more control over your electricity usage. You are able to harness the power of the sun and convert it into usable energy, majorly cutting back on utility expenses. But will solar panels produce enough power for your home? What about those times when the sun doesn’t shine through the clouds or a stormy day hampers energy production? For most homeowners, the solution is being tied to a power grid. For any energy demands they have that their solar production doesn’t cover, they will start pulling from the power grid instead. Even though homeowners essentially have to “buy” energy during these times, they often have credits to cover the expenses. This means that during evening hours without sunlight, cloudier days, or other circumstances, homeowners can still ensure their electricity needs are covered -- and still benefit from previous over-production of electricity needs. In some states, homeowners can even earn money for any additional electricity their panels have produced that they don’t use from the grid. There is also great assurance knowing that there will always be some source of power to pull from should a home’s solar panels not provide the electricity needed. As states continue to adopt models for charging solar panel customers, power companies stand to benefit the most from having customers still tied to the grid. This also means that the threat of facing time-of-use rates and other spikes in utility costs is still very real for homeowners with a grid-tied solar power system. How Does a Battery Storage Solar Power System Work? In theory, a solar power system that has a solar storage battery could be completely grid-free. That means homeowners have ultimate control over their electricity needs. They don’t have to worry about using credits to cover additional energy demands during low production hours, time-of-use rates, or other challenges that come with a regular grid-tied system. Battery technology isn’t new, but using batteries for home solar power storage is still not widespread yet. However, the interest in energy storage is growing greatly. As products continue to be developed, the efficiency and storage capacity of these batteries will continue to improve. However, some home electricity demands would still exceed the storage capacity of a solar battery. If you tried to go completely “off the grid,” you could be left without power once you depleted your backup resource until the sun comes back out. Why a Hybrid System Is Gaining Popularity It is clear that both a grid-tied system and battery-backed system boast plenty of perks – and challenges alike. Instead of weighing the pros and cons to the point of pulling out your hair, consider an alternative solution: a hybrid system. A hybrid solar power system can include the pros of both sides, while essentially eliminating the cons. A home can have the perks of being tied to the grid for any energy needs they have once they’ve used up their solar panel production and battery storage. Homeowners have the ability to draw electricity from both their local power grid, as well as from their home solar batteries. They can choose to invest in more solar batteries for more independence overtime or simply get one for backup purposes. Having a hybrid system also gives homeowners more flexibility and control. They may choose to reserve their solar power storage for emergency usage only, after the sun goes down, or as backup in case electricity prices surge during certain hours of the day. Combining a grid-tied system and battery system allows for a consistent and more controlled flow of energy throughout the day and night for homeowners. When is a hybrid system the most desirable? For homeowners who live in an area without favorable compensation rates for excess electricity produced by solar panels, having a hybrid system can be crucial. Rather than simply sending excess electricity to the grid at a low rate, a homeowner can save some of that valuable electricity for future use, only sending what they don’t use or store. How California’s Net Metering Policy Has Changed Homeowners who live in California may be even more inclined to consider a hybrid solar power system. Net Metering 2.0 (NEM 2.0) is an update to California’s original policy on net metering, now including time-of-use rates, non-bypassable charges, and some additional fees. The estimated additional cost will jump up to around $10/month for an average homeowner. The time-of-use rates will be the biggest adjustment for many homeowners, which will adjust the credit given for solar electricity depending on the time of day it was produced. Typically, any excess electricity that is sent back to the grid during higher demand or peak hours will be given more credit. Overall, the policy is still favorable for homeowners, but having a solar battery to store excess electricity can provide more flexibility to bypass lower time-of-use rates and send by electricity during those peak value hours. Whether you are considering completely disconnecting from your local power grid with solar storage batteries or just want to create the most efficient home solar power system, talk to Semper Solaris about your battery options today.
Renewable energy is a necessity that is slowly being appreciated by everyone today. There are a growing number of homes, buildings, outdoor establishments that utilize solar batteries. With the rising cost for service necessities, such as electricity, people are slowly moving to newer sources for energy. Solar batteries have been out in the market for those who wish to cut on expensive costs of electricity. Solar batteries are used to store electric energy with the utilization of solar panels to capture sunlight and convert it to renewable energy. The process in which electricity is made possible by solar batteries is simple, it absorbs solar light, collects proton energy, and triggers electrons that eventually creates energy. Electricity is then stored in these batteries allowing energy to be used whenever it is needed. You may be wondering why you should even consider shifting from traditional sources of electricity to those powered by solar batteries. There are important factors which you should consider, thus allowing you to appreciate its advantages: Low electricity bills Rising costs in electricity bills only get worse with time. The reason for this is that resources are becoming scarce and the population of people is not getting any smaller. Solar batteries are able to supply electricity to appliances needed to survive everyday life. Examples of these appliances are cooking stoves, cooling systems for houses, heaters, lights for both indoors and outdoors. Low contribution to pollution Solar batteries do not contribute to pollution. They are renewable energy that does not emit harmful toxins that destroy our environment. It collects energy that is needed by you, and collects once more when energy is depleted. Unlimited supply of electricity With the integration of solar batteries used by homes today, electricity can now be stored in greater numbers. These batteries have the capacity to store certain amounts of electricity depending on the model you purchase from your local dealer. Free source of power Sunlight is the main source of energy which solar batteries derive their power from. As long as the sun keeps shining, your batteries never run out of power. The beauty of sunlight is that companies cannot create business from everyone using sunlight. Portable energy Solar batteries are capable of transportation for use in the most obscure areas. Unlike traditional power sources, solar energy can be used anywhere. As long as you have the solar batteries and the sun keeps shining then you're good to go!
If you have noticed solar panels showing up on private homes a lot lately, you've likely wondered if the cost of solar panels in California is worth the significant investment they represent. While it's true that the cost of solar panels can be quite high, the truth is the potential savings they can net you on your monthly electric bill make them worth the initial investment. In fact, when you compare the amount of money you can save on an annual basis and compare that amount to the cost of solar panels, California homeowners may find themselves pleasantly surprised. The easiest way to factor the value of going solar is determining how much you pay for your current electricity from a local grid on a monthly basis compared to how much you can get paid for the electricity produced from PV after those initial costs are deducted over the course of the system’s lifetime. This total is the amount that should matter to homeowners when they consider whether or not solar can save them money. Caught up in this big picture approach is the idea of solar grid parity. What exactly is Solar Grid Parity and how does it affect me? So what exactly is solar parity and how does it affect the decision to go solar? It is the point at which the amount of money needed to produce power from solar panels is either equal to or less than the cost of paying for electricity from the grid. The sooner we get to solar parity across the country, the cheaper it will continue to get. Essentially, the more people recognize the benefits of solar and choose to invest in this renewable energy source, the sooner it will become adopted across America, making energy cleaner and more affordable for homeowners. How does this work? When solar companies can buy in bulk to meet the growing consumer demand for solar panels, they can lower the cost of solar panels. California homeowners, for example, may find they get better prices on materials. This impact also boosts investment in transmissions lines and helps to cut solar costs, which means it can meet the rising cost of electricity sooner, resulting in parity, or equality, until solar eventually becomes even cheaper. How Close Is the U.S. to Solar Parity? What is the timeline for solar parity in America? That answer depends on a number of factors, with each state facing different challenges, from limited sun exposure to transmission line investment costs. The country has set a target of boosting renewable energy usage to 20 percent by 2040, which would likely result in solar parity nationwide. While we have some ground to cover as a country, California is leading the way as one of the 20 states at grid parity. Weighing the Cost of Solar Panels: California Homeowners Should Be Going Solar Now The point of parity on the grid has already been reached in California, which means installing solar panels is now more affordable than the average electricity bill homeowners have to pay off every month. Solar isn’t just an option for investing in the future of affordable energy; it can start saving homeowners money right now. The average homeowner will cut back on costs between 20 and 40 percent – especially when the individual chooses to partner with a company like Semper Solaris. With zero down and zero out of pocket, solar energy has never been more affordable and realistic for homeowners. Factors that make going solar affordable to homeowners now include the following: You receive a 30 percent federal tax credit. Net metering can result in money back from electricity companies. California has already reached grid parity. Great savings exist in Semper Solaris’ online specials. Some properties may go months without having a bill. The interest is tax deductible. Low income and low FICO scores can still finance through PACE. What Is PACE Financing? The PACE Financing program is a great option that makes setting up solar energy easier for homeowners, ultimately pushing us closer to solar grid parity. Short for Property Assessed Clean Energy, PACE is a financing option designed to help homeowners save money when investing in cleaner energy while adding more value to their property. PACE covers 100 percent of the solar installation cost and can be paid back over the course of 20 to 30 years, with an assessment added to the property tax bill. Homeowners start saving from day one! The Senate bill on PACE (SB-242) will add more consumer protections for residential PACE programs in California, providing even more peace of mind to homeowners wanting to invest in energy upgrades that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible to them. With California at solar grid parity, switching to solar is the smart investment for homeowners who want to instantly save on their energy bill and be a force for renewable energy!
Having a solar panel system installed can be an environmentally and economically savvy move. In fact, the Solar Energy Industries Association reported that the market doubled in 2016 compared to the previous year. Solar power is not a fading trend – it is here to make the world a greener place. With the wave of solar power comes additional renewable energy options for homeowners, including options like solar batteries for storing solar power not used right away. What Exactly Do Solar Batteries Do? When a homeowner has a solar energy system installed, it includes solar panels, mounting equipment, a monitoring system, and an inverter to make the power from the sun usable electricity in a home. Most homes are tied to an electricity grid, which means any additional or unused power created by your panels will flow into the grid. In return, homeowners are able to draw excess power needed when their solar panels aren’t producing enough (such as at night). Typically, a credit will be given to homeowners for any extra electricity their solar panels produce and send to the grid. That means these credits will usually cover any excess electricity needed to be drawn back from the grid when the panels aren’t generating enough power– also referred to as net metering. So what does this have to do with solar batteries? In theory, the batteries would take that excess solar power, convert it, and then store it for later use. The solar battery would then be the secondary power source your home draws from depending on how much power your solar panels produce. Any excess electricity produced by panels once the battery is charged is then sent back to the grid. It essentially gives your home an extra storage of usable electricity. If your solar battery is depleted when your panels aren’t producing power, only then will your home draw from the grid. Additionally, solar batteries can act as a quick backup power supply in power outage situations. Do I Need a Solar Battery for My Home? Having a solar battery may seem like a natural step to take when you have a solar panel system up and running for your home, but it isn’t always necessary. In large part, whether or not a battery is practical depends on how your utility processes the power produced by your solar panels. If you get compensated through a credit for every kilowatt-hour of electricity produced (net metering), a battery may not make as much sense. If a battery is storing that power, you won’t get any extra savings on your electricity bill. On the other hand, if you are under time-of-use rates or demand charges, you may benefit greatly from having the flexibility of a solar battery to provide previously produced power during those times. Also, if you like the idea of being able to store additional solar power and reducing dependence on the local electricity grid, a solar battery can be a great option. Still have questions? You can get answers when you trust your solar panel system installation to Semper Solaris. Contact us now to get more insight on how to go solar the smart way.
According to studies, San Francisco boasts a 62.6% higher cost of living than the average across the U.S. If you live in San Francisco or anywhere in the Bay Area, this probably doesn’t come as a surprise to you. Every day, you navigate the steeper prices for everything from groceries and gas to utility bills. You’ve also likely thought through options for cutting back on these expenses. Solar energy is paving the way for homeowners all over the country to save on their monthly energy spending – and nowhere is this more attractive an option than the Bay Area. With California’s booming solar market, the cost of going solar has become more affordable. Homeowners in the Bay Area have been getting system sizes averaging around 5 kW. This number may vary based on the size of your roof, overall household energy demands, and your desired budget. Taking into account the savings with rebates and net metering benefits, switching to solar may be more attainable than you realized. How Much Can Solar Really Save Me? As solar energy continues to grow, prices for solar panel systems will continue to become more affordable. However, waiting for prices to dramatically drop before making the switching isn’t necessarily the best way to save. The long-term savings you can take advantage of can be big – with an average homeowner in San Francisco on track to save an average of $59,416 over a 20-year period. These savings can range based on system size, however, the numbers are still too good to pass up. If you are trying to determine if going solar can help you save, let Semper Solaris help. Our trusted Bay Area solar company can review your options and help you understand which system is right for your needs.
The answer is yes, and that “future” just got a lot more real after the California Energy Commission unanimously voted in the new requirement this month. This is a major stride in improving the energy consumption and clean energy production in California. Under the new requirement that is set to go into effect in two years-time, all new homes must have solar power. While it is true that this will add upfront cost to new builds, state officials and solar power advocates alike agree that the additional building expenses will be covered down the road by the long-term reduction in energy bill costs. Further, California is required to have at least 50% of all electricity sourced from non-carbon-producing options, or clean energy sources by the year 2030. With solar panels being one of the most common and accessible clean energy options, it has become a major force in shifting the state towards alternative energy reliance. What Will the Added Cost Look Like? The new building code gives builders a little freedom when it comes to choosing how they would like to make solar power available on the properties. For example, builders have the option of either adding solar panels to each individual home or creating a shared solar power system that serves a group of homes or development. Likewise, new homeowners don’t have to see the full cost of solar panels added on to their home price, instead, they have the option to lease on a month to month basis. Generally speaking, estimates range from $8,000 to $12,000 in terms of what homeowners can expect to pay. If a homeowner had a 30-year mortgage, they are looking at adding $40 to their monthly payments on average. According to the Energy Commission, however, estimates show that consumers will save around $80 a month on their energy bills, thus making the move profitable for them. At the end of the day, moving away from a centralized source of power is better for everyone, especially homeowners. It gives those spending the money on electricity and energy bills more control over what they are spending, how much they are willing to pay, and who their providers are. Now, with solar power and battery storage solutions like Tesla Powerwall growing in demand, it helps lessen the dependency on grid power altogether. Those Without Solar Can Expect a Rise in Energy Costs California is leading the charge on solar power, standing as the top state in the nation in regards to solar capacity. As of 2017, solar power was responsible for covering nearly 16% of California’s electricity demands. Not only that, but the solar industry boomed, providing more than 86,000 jobs to workers across the state. While solar can be seen as a major positive force in the state, some current homeowners are wondering where the new building code will leave them. What if you didn’t have your home built with solar panels? Should you consider going solar even if you aren’t “required” to? The affordable cost of installing solar panels, as well as the incentives and many financial options, make it a very appealing option. Not only that, but new electricity rate structures are coming up that will start to charge California residents based on the time of day that they are using electricity rather than just a flat daily consumption. What does this mean? That homeowners that are using energy at “peak” hours could see major spikes in expenses due to these new time-of-use rates. Avoiding higher costs with energy-efficient features is becoming more and more attractive to many California homeowners. You can get started today by requesting a free energy-analysis from Semper Solaris today.
With the recent Pineapple Express storm pounding California with more rain and more extreme weather than usual, homeowners might be left wondering about the effect of weather on solar panels. Here’s what you need to know about how solar panels work and how weather may affect them. How Solar Panels Work without Sun The way solar panels work is because of a cell panel that converts sunlight directly into electricity. When photons (particles of sunlight) hit them on top of a roof, the panel turns the photons it receives into electrons of direct current electricity. The inverter then converts the direct current electricity into alternating current power, which can be used to power household items. A common misconception about solar panels is that they need direct sunlight in order to work. Although the sun is the main source of energy that they absorb and convert into power, the way that it is projected onto a solar panel cell doesn’t necessarily require direct sunlight. Solar panel cells actually just need the photons emitted from daylight sun. In other words, even if it’s cloudy out, the sun’s photons are still being spread into the atmosphere and absorbed into the panels. That being said, direct sunlight is still preferred over indirect sunlight for optimal energy absorption. On cloudy days, solar panels produce only 10 – 25% of their capacity. Factors that make this range an approximation include the density of the clouds, as well as the type of solar panel; some can handle diffused light better than others. Impact of Different Weather on Solar Panels Most solar panels are built to handle a wide range of climates and conditions, including heavy rain, hail, wind, heat and cold. This is good news for areas that are impacted by storms, rain and snow. During the manufacturing process, each solar panel is tested for extreme weather conditions to receive an Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) certification. While this certification is a good baseline, it doesn’t mean that all solar panels uphold the same durability and quality. It simply means they have passed the minimum number of tests required to be certified. More specifically, high winds, snow, and cold temperatures shouldn’t be a concern. Top-rated solar panels are engineered to withstand winds of up to 140 MPH. As for harsh winters — cold temperature can actually improve solar panel output, and white snow can reflect light and improve photovoltaic performance. So long as panels aren’t covered in snow, winter climates can actually be an ideal environment for solar panels. Snow will usually melt and slide off panels easily; if it does build up, simply use a broom to brush it off. Of course, solar panels aren’t entirely invincible. Lightning and hail can damage solar panels in extreme cases. Consumers should look into their homeowner’s insurance policy, which usually covers solar panel damage if it is not included in the solar panel’s warranty. Additionally, be aware that hot climates may actually reduce the efficiency of solar panels. For any temperature above 87 degrees Fahrenheit, a one-degree increase in temperature can equate to a 1% decrease in efficiency. Durability of Solar Panels Most inclement weather won’t have a huge impact so long as they are high quality and boast durability as one of their main attributes. Many top-rated solar panels have a proven track record of durability, degrading at a slower rate than others. In fact, the manufacturer guarantees that the system will produce 92% of its rated power after 25 years of use. Durable solar panels also protect the roof of your home from harsh weather conditions, acting like a barrier. Panels are built to hold a certain weight, so the more durable your panels, the better they can withstand snow or hail. Proper Solar Installation to Withstand Any Weather Condition One key factor to ensuring weather doesn’t become a hindrance is making sure the panels are properly installed. Your money is on the line, so make sure the solar installation company that you go with is reputable among the solar industry. The installer should understand the types of local wind patterns and climate conditions your area typically receives, and help you pick the right solar panels to match these needs. Even if you live in California where the sunnier-than-average climate is ideal for solar , it’s normal to wonder how the weather might affect their efficiency. The science behind how panels absorb photons speaks to why they still work on cloudy days, and the durability of the panels allows them to withstand just about any weather scenario. At the same time, it’s important to choose the best quality solar panels and look for an installation company that can properly install panels so that they are secure and ready to face any weather condition. To find out more about what makes a top-rated solar panel worthy of installation, start by asking these 10 Questions About Solar Panels — that way you can ensure your panels will remain sturdy on your roof, whatever the weather may be.
If you live in San Diego, you’ve gotten used to seeing solar panels perched on the rooftops of homes and businesses, but are these panels only meant to power blenders and keep the air conditioning running? No way, Jose! Solar panels are like the nerdy kid who just became popular. The trend that started on the West Coast is showing up everywhere – on RVs, planes, backpacks, and even dog houses. Yes, Rover is totally getting into the solar energy game. It’s time to think out of the box when it comes to California solar. Here are six cool and unique ways you can use solar power in your life. 1. Power Up Your Electric Gadgets and Luxuries If you’re thinking about investing in solar for your home, consider that your new solar power system can cover all your current energy needs and give you the perfect excuse to invest in some new electric toys. The top of this list for most people is an electric car. Gas isn’t cheap here in California, so if you can cruise up the 5 using a battery powered by the sun, that can add up to great savings. Take your pick from the Chevy Volt, to the Tesla Model S (which could go well with your Tesla home battery), 2018 BMW i3, and more. With nearly every major car manufacturer focused on going electric, the list of choices will only keep growing. But don’t just stop at electric cars. Now is the time to put in that heated pool or hot tub the kids have always wanted, or the new theater system you’ve always wanted. Add cool outdoor lights to show off your backyard. Heck, your solar power system can even give you enough juice to start mining for cryptocurrency or charge your family robot… you know, when those become more of a thing. Just make sure you tell your solar power specialist what your future energy needs will be so they can recommend an adequate system size for your home and extras. 2. Take the Ultimate Road Trip with Solar-Powered RVs and Vans Have you ever dreamed of hitting the open road for weeks or even months at a time to explore every nook and cranny of the country? Well, you’ll still have to figure out a way to keep the fridge running and the lights on without draining your car battery every few days. Many enthusiastic RV and van dwellers have wholeheartedly embraced solar power in order to run things like refrigerators, hot plates, lights, water pumps, and even televisions - no matter how far off the beaten path they go. Alexandra Ulmke who writes the popular blog A Girl and Her Van explains that solar panels “are efficient, relatively cheap, and provide enough power to stay off the grid for weeks on end.” In this educational blog post, she explains step by step how she retrofitted her van with solar panels to keep the energy flowing. 3. Avoid a Dead Phone While on an Adventure with Solar-Powered Backpacks In this day and age, our phones, laptops, and other gadgets aren’t just luxuries. They’re necessities. That’s why it can be a minor emergency when your phone battery goes into the red. What if you’re trying to navigate to a brand-new place, waiting for a call about a sick family member, or hiking in the woods far from civilization? Fortunately, a growing line of solar-powered backpacks can ensure you always have a ready energy source to charge your gadgets. These backpacks come in all sorts of styles, from sleek and professional to a true adventure pack. You can even get a solar-powered water bladder backpack for those long solo-runs. Prices for solar-powered backpacks range from this budget-friendly option to this hiker’s dream come true. Want to be even kinder to your wallet? Skip the backpack altogether and just pick up this convenient portable solar panel that you can unroll when needed or even attach to a normal backpack during your outdoor adventures. 4. Discover a New Way to Get Around Town with Solar-Powered Bikes Just because you don’t have $79,500 to plunk down on a 2018 Tesla Model X doesn’t mean it’s time to give up on your solar-powered transportation dreams. Electric bikes are becoming an increasingly popular mode of travel, especially in places like San Diego where the weather is gorgeous year-round. Electric bikes offer power-assisted pedaling to help you rocket up hills and cruise for miles while hardly breaking a sweat. That nice little boost comes courtesy of a lithium ion battery that powers a small engine connected to the bike. Some e-bike enthusiasts are taking the next step and hooking their batteries up to solar powered systems. One ingenious startup based in Copenhagen, Kvaern, is even offering a cool e-bike that comes with a solar-powered battery charging pack. 5. Go Up, Up and Away with Solar Powered Planes San Diegans have gotten used to seeing electric-powered cars on the road, but it might be time to start looking up! Enter Google co-founder Larry Page, who recently took the wraps off a new company called Kitty Hawk. The company’s main product is an electric, self-flying air taxi that takes off like a helicopter and looks a little like the pod that brought Superman to earth with wide wings attached. The company has been performing stealth flights in New Zealand and working directly with the island nation’s government to develop an official certification process, with the goal of offering commercial flights in three years. But Kitty Hawk isn’t the only company in this space. Boeing, Airbus, Uber, and others have all been toiling away, trying to design their own air taxis. What makes Kitty Hawk unique, though, is that its electric power system means that it could potentially be powered using solar technology, creating a truly carbon-free mode of air transportation! 6. Make sure Rover Loves Being in the Dog House with a Solar-Powered Dog House We spoil our dogs with manicures, dental work and all the latest and greatest toys. It was only a matter of time before Rover’s dog house got upgraded with solar panels to make his abode even more luxurious. Inventive pet parents are installing solar powered systems that can heat dog houses in the cold winter and power fans during the hot “dog days” of summer (we couldn’t help ourselves). According to an article in PetGuide.com, solar power has also been used to power automatic food and treat dispensers, water purifying systems and even pet cams. Turns out, staying in the dog house isn’t such a bad place to be. How Are You Going to Use Solar Power? Going solar in California has a whole new meaning now, doesn’t it? While the vast majority of solar systems are installed to power homes and businesses, enterprising and creative people can adapt solar technology for a whole host of unconventional uses and exciting new products. As this technology continues to get cheaper and more prolific, it will truly revolutionize the way we power our world and our lives. At Semper Solaris, we are proud to be part of this California-led revolution. If you want to join the solar power party, contact us today for a free energy audit of your home.
You may have heard some buzz about how solar panels cuts costs on energy bills or that they’re eco-friendly. But chances are, this is pretty much all you know about them - and that’s 100% okay. But it’s important to understand exactly what you’re getting into when it comes to making the switch to solar energy. What Are Interesting Facts About Solar Energy? Here are 10 interesting facts about solar energy: 1. The first solar panel cell was invented in 1941 In 1839, Alexandre Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect—that is, the ability to create an electric current from the sun’s rays. Shortly after, Russell Ohl invented the first solar panel cell in 1941 and the first commercial panel was put out by Bell Laboratories in 1954. Today, solar panel history is still being paved, as Semper Solaris continues to install industry-leading solar panels every day. 2. One hour of sunlight equals one year’s worth of energy for the entire earth Solar power starts with solar energy, which is energy produced by the sun. When the sunbeams, its energy can be stored in solar panels. These solar panels transform energy into power in two different ways – photovoltaic, which is power used for electricity, and solar thermal, which is power used for heating. The energy from the sun is the most abundant energy source available on Earth. With just one hour of direct sunlight, you could collect enough energy to generate a year’s worth of power for the entire Earth. There’s a lot of electrical juice from the sun! All you need is a cord (aka, solar panels) that’ll transform the energy from point A (the sun) to point B (electricity that can be used by your home) to power up all your home energy requirements. Everything that you need to know about solar: Solar for Beginners! 3. California is the biggest proponent of solar energy in the United States As of 2022, California’s solar power usage topped all other states, clocking in 39,729 megawatts of solar energy use. The state has enough solar energy systems installed to power 10.7 million homes. Other states that follow just behind California in solar energy production and usage include North Carolina, Arizona, Nevada and New Jersey. But, as the popularity of solar power grows with increasingly affordable access, you can expect to see more states jump on board, expanding the overall market. 4. Solar panels can produce power without direct sunlight You read that right! The sun is the most abundant source of energy for solar panels to absorb and convert into power, but it doesn’t need to be direct sunlight. Solar panels can capture different parts of the sun’s light spectrum. So, if the sun’s not directly beaming on the panels - or it happens to be a cloudy day - it doesn’t mean the hues reflected from the sky aren’t being captured and utilized by the solar panel cells to produce power. 5. A solar-powered home can reduce CO2 emissions by 100 tons within 30 years Solar power translates to clean energy production and you can reduce your carbon footprint significantly by installing a home solar power system. In other words, it’s not emitting the same pollution other energy sources typically do. The average U.S. household using a solar power system would reduce emissions by approximately eight pounds of sulfur dioxide, five pounds of nitrogen oxide and more than 1,400 pounds of carbon dioxide each month. 6. Investing in solar energy can pay for itself When you switch to a solar energy system, try not to take the initial price of installation at face value, because the overall amount you save in investing in solar power is actually where the value lies. After you’ve had your solar panels installed, you will no longer have to pay a heating or electric bill and, after time, the amount you save on the electricity bill (which averages $1,300 per household annually), will pay off your initial investment of installing a solar energy system. Additionally, those who buy solar panels could be eligible for a 30% tax break and some states even allow solar power owners to sell their excess solar energy – putting more money back into your pockets. They are even relatively low maintenance and getting a check-up is affordable. 7. Solar power can fuel airplanes Solar energy goes beyond simply using solar power for home electricity purposes. It can also be utilized in vehicles. From cars to trains, and now even airplanes, more and more people are traveling using solely solar energy. This application of solar power outside homes and office buildings is just a start to the unlimited potential solar technology has in changing our everyday lives for the better. 8. Installing solar can be a community effort Solar energy is expanding from just individual systems for each home to community solar systems. The concept of shared solar fits well in the ever-growing sharing economy that has risen in popularity over the past decade. Instead of homeowners installing their own solar panels, solar systems are being installed for entire communities to use to power their homes. So, why not talk to your neighbors and see who else wants to go solar on your block? 9. Solar panels produce approximately 10 kilowatts of energy per square foot Kilowatts hours (kWh) are used to measure solar-powered electricity and most solar panels have approximately 225-watt capacities, with the ability to generate 20-watts per square foot. To put that in perspective (and human speak for those, not in the energy industry), the average home needs about 30 solar panels to meet its own energy usage requirements. 10. The number of U.S. solar power installations is 23 times higher than eight years ago Solar power continues to grow in popularity in the United States, which is currently the third-largest solar market in the world. With the price of solar energy systems getting lower, it is becoming a really appealing energy choice for Americans. There is a lot more to those solar panels than you may have known. After finding out about history about them, a bit of science behind the technology, solar energy’s current position in the market and its ability to grow, why not get on board with solar panels for your own home? The chances of using solar energy as a major power source are still growing and Semper Solaris can help you become a part of the solar movement.
Homeowners have installed over 580,000 solar panels in California alone, saving thousands of dollars on their energy bills. Since 2007, the costs associated with installing solar panels have dramatically decreased. Best of all, the U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts solar panel prices will remain at a steady low until at least 2035. Since utility costs keep rising, now is the perfect time to install solar panels on your home. With more homeowners interested in solar energy, we’d love to help you by answering common questions. Learn more about solar panel installation and solar energy in general from Semper Solaris. Can I afford to install solar panels? We’ve come a long way since solar panels were first created. Solar panels are now more affordable than ever, and all kinds of rebates and financing programs have been created in recent years. For example, the HERO Program can help approved homeowners pay for their solar panels through their property taxes rather than through high upfront costs. There are also currently several rebates and tax incentives offered by both federal and state governments to help you create renewable energy through photovoltaic (PV) systems. In addition, many companies offer special financing or discounts. How do solar panels save me money? By using solar energy, you can lower your electricity costs or even bring them down to zero. Through a process called net metering, several homeowners with solar panels actually receive money from the electricity company for all the extra energy that they produce! For homeowners with families, who run the air conditioning often, or who run a lot of appliances and technology, solar panels can mean saving hundreds of dollars per month. In California, “grid parity” has currently been reached, meaning that the costs of installing solar panels are officially less than the costs of paying the average electricity bill each month. Also, unlike your electricity bill, your solar panel payments will eventually all be paid off. How often do I have to maintain them? One of the best features of solar panels is that they require very little maintenance. For example, at Semper Solaris we only use the most efficient solar panels on the market that come with a 25-year bumper-to-bumper warranty, meaning that they’re built to last 25 years with little to no work on the homeowner’s part. Any solar company should work with you to ensure that there are no obstructions that could decrease your panels’ ability to soak in the sunlight, but you may have to occasionally trim branches or other blockages that grow close to your roof. Solar panels don’t usually have to be cleaned in order to continue to work well, but you’re free to hose them off to keep them always looking new. What do I have to do to install solar? Most of a homeowner’s work in installing solar panels is in finding the right solar company. But once you find the contractor that’s right for you, they should take care of the rest. A good solar company will be licensed, have excellent ratings with the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List, and will keep you well informed about the installation process. Once a solar company has the proper permits from local governments, the installation process should be very quick and simple. Where do I go for more information? Contact local and veteran owned Semper Solaris and we’ll be happy to answer your questions about solar panels—and give you a free energy analysis.
PG&E RATES RISE TO AN ALL TIME HIGH! If PG&E is your electric company, your rates are increasing! PG&E serves huge sections of California, including most of Northern California and Central California, as well as coastal cities like San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. If you live in any of these areas, you may be experiencing some of the highest rates in PG&E’s history! Starting March 2017, PG&E is adding a high usage surcharge. Do you have family members living at home during the day? Do you run your TV for most of the day or night? Or do you use an electric vehicle? All of these could put you at risk for the high usage fee! This means that those who have especially large families or many appliances, or those who just forget to turn off the lights, may be paying especially high rates. For families who may run the heater in the cold months, or who live in hotter environments and have to run the air conditioner most days, this could mean huge increases in the cost of electricity. Not only that, but PG&E is totally changing the tier system. Did your energy use ever get into Tier 3 or Tier 4? These tiers will no longer exist! Now, it’s just Tier 1, Tier 2, and the high usage fee. If you use more energy than average, you could be at risk for this extremely high rate. Right now, Tier 3 energy usage is 40 cents per kilowatt-hour, one of the highest in the country. The high usage fee is likely to be even higher than this. Tier 2 is at 24 cents per kilowatt-hour, but these will likely increase once Tier 2 and Tier 3 are combined. PG&E has also added minimum charges and fees! Electricity rates are only going up, which means there’s never a better time to go solar than now. Going solar means that you can start saving today. Solar customers can dramatically reduce or even completely eliminate their electricity bill. Why keep paying rates that only go up and up, when you can install solar panels and start saving? Some customers even receive payments from the electric company for all of their electric company! Don’t just sit back and take the ever-increasing prices—start taking ownership of your rates. Don't put it off - Go Solar and Roofing American Style with Semper Solaris, your local and veteran-owned SunPower Elite Dealer We pride ourselves on our military roots and values, and our team is known for their personal responsibility, reliable word, and faithfulness. We hire as many veterans as we can, and offer special discounts for military personnel, first responders, and their families. We also have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau for our customer service. Semper is also the only solar and roofing contractor still offering you the equivalent of the California state rebate, up to $3,000. Go solar with Semper. Zero down and no payments until 2018 on approved credit. Why keep paying outrageous electricity bills? Go solar now to get the best rates!
Solar power is one of the most plentiful renewable energy sources in the world, especially in areas such as California that enjoy the benefits of clear skies on a regular basis. Some people may be resistant to the idea of solar power because they simply don't understand how solar panels work. However, solar power is a solid choice for residents in the San Diego area. If you're not sure how solar panels work, you've come to the right place. The Rundown on Solar Power In short, solar power provides electricity for homes and buildings. It is so effective that it can be used in place of traditional electricity or other sources of energy. The word “solar” comes from the Latin word for “sun.” “Solar power” refers to the powerful energy we get from the sun. Thousands of years ago, people realized the power of the sun, and even then, people tried to use solar power to make their homes more comfortable in the winter. It’s a reliable, eco-friendly energy that doesn’t run out and doesn’t create pollution the way some sources of energy, such as gas or coal, can. Today, especially in California, solar power is a fitting source of energy, thanks to the state’s conducive climate. Harnessing Solar Energy in California As the sun shines down on the Earth, different areas can collect different amounts of solar power. San Diego, California, for example, is a warm and sunny city that gets a lot of intense sunlight throughout the year. In fact, all of Southern California is an ideal place for solar energy collection. California solar power companies in this area use solar thermal collectors, which absorb heat energy from the sun. This energy is then used to heat water or make electricity. If a system is big enough, the cells that turn sunlight into electricity can even make enough electricity for a whole neighborhood. An area that’s open to the sky and without too many trees overhead is needed to collect solar energy. Solar Energy Four Ways to Do Solar Energy Solar Energy Technology Basics Solar Power Saves Everyone Money How Solar Panels Work Solar panels are set up so that the sun shines down on them at an ideal angle. When the sun hits the panels, tiny solar cells, also called photovoltaic cells, absorb the sunlight. These cells might be as small as a half an inch or as large as 4 inches each. The solar cells then absorb the energy and use it to move electrons to a second layer of the cells. When the electrons hit the second layer, this action forces other electrons to move down, too. This movement of electrons is actually electricity, which can power appliances in a house. In the United States, California solar power is prominent due to the abundant sunshine and heat in this area. California was early to adopt the solar power movement. For example, the Mojave Desert in southern California has a solar power plant that has been running for decades. Solar Energy How Solar Panels Work: A Simple Explanation The Environment: Solar Energy How Does Solar Power Work? Renewable Energy Sources Solar Power Learn About Solar Power How You Can Use Solar Energy in the Home Whether you live on the coast, inland, atop rolling hills, or in the mountains, California residents in all regions can find multiple uses for solar energy in the home. With solar panels, you can collect solar energy to use for air conditioning, to heat water, and to power appliances. A battery can store extra energy so that the house can have power at night and on cloudy days, like those signature “May Gray and “June Gloom” months sunny SoCal often experiences. Solar Basics Solar Power Facts DIY Projects Using the Sun A Kid’s Guide to Solar Power in the Home Meet the Sun Power People Should You Put Solar Panels on Your House? Kids Can Learn About Solar Power Some Solar Energy Fun California solar power is leading the future of energy. Want to learn more about solar energy? Activities like building a solar oven with a box, aluminum foil, and a few other materials can show you how to use the power of the sun to cook a fun snack. You could build a solar night-light out of a jar and a solar path light. Try out the following games, experiments, and activities to get a hands-on experience with solar energy. Solar Energy Coloring Book (PDF) How Solar Panels Work (video) Energy Games and Icebreakers Energy City Interactive Game California Solar Power Regions Served by Semper Solaris Take a look at the top locations we serve in California to find out more information about your city. San Diego Solar Orange County Solar Bay Area Solar Los Angeles Solar Inland Empire Solar If you’re interested in learning more about how solar panels work and how solar panels for home use can benefit you, contact a specialist such as Semper Solaris today.
