Solar Panels | Solar Panels, Battery Storage, Roofing, HVAC
Solar battery storage like Tesla Powerwall can be useful for homeowners even without solar panels as they are paired with a typical solar energy system of your home. By using the technology of a small scale energy storing system in the storage system of the solar batteries at your home, your battery can provide backup even without solar panels as it will be charged by the power supplied by the grid. Need for installing solar battery at home The need for solar battery installed in your home depends mainly upon how your solar power can adjust your utilities. Full net metering is offered by most of the utilities, which allows you to get credit on your power consumption bills for every unit of electricity produced by your solar panels. So, if you install a solar battery, then you may not be able to save more money on your monthly electricity bill. But, a solar battery can increase the savings on the solar panels installed in your office or home in many circumstances. If you have to pay demand charges at the rate of the time to use or net metering is not offered by your utilities, then you can save a lot of money by using solar batteries. Suitability of solar batteries in the ecosystem of electricity Though the technologies used to store solar energy have not gained enough popularity, still you cannot ignore them in the present time. The demand for saving energy is increased at a faster speed because of the benefits provided by solar batteries to the homeowners. The ability of the solar batteries to store renewable energy to use later on can also be used for the entire grid of electricity if used on a large scale. The technologies of energy storage used in solar batteries can provide flexibility to the users of energy to generate electricity with the help of solar power and use it. The task of grid managers and electric utilities is a bit more complicated. They have to provide reliable and constant access to electrical power to their customers to power their businesses and homes. And for this purpose, they will have to be sure that the grid has enough ability to meet the needs of their customers. Most probably, their customers may not get any power supply at a point of time if the system has too much or too low power supply. It can be more challenging to balance the demand and supply carefully if the grid is combined with the sources of renewable energy as solar panels can produce electricity only when the sun shines. The output of the causes of renewable energy cannot be increased with the increase in demand like the traditional power plants based on natural gas or coal, as you cannot compel the sun to shine brighter to produce more energy or shine at night. In this way, the flow of electricity from the sources of renewable energy can be increased by installing more technologies to store energy like solar batteries, etc. In other words, battery storage at your home can provide your power supply even without solar panels.
In Rancho Cordova, beautification efforts are underway. This once upon a time gold rush town turned tourist attraction will be a bustling center for West Coast events and meeting spaces for both local, business and travelers alike. Nature is plentiful, and many attractions keep visitors busy. From local venues and accommodations to hiking, biking, or rafting on the American River, there is always something to do. As the city looks for ways to clean up the air and water, solar power is becoming the go-to renewable resource for lowering its carbon footprint and improving the environment. Residents of Rancho Cordova are switching to solar and wondering why they didn’t do it sooner. And solar panels on rooftops are changing the look of their town. Semper Solaris has years of experience installing solar panels in Rancho Cordova. We are pleased to bring the best that Solar has to offer to this city. Why Solar in Rancho Cordova? Renewable energy is the centerpiece of a clean and sustainable environment. It is a good step for creating a clean energy economy as well as maintaining clean natural habitats and green spaces. Solar is the most cost-effective and accessible renewable energy in Rancho Cordova. It can be mobilized quickly without adding infrastructure to support it. It sits on space that takes up no extra space. With the bonus of shrinking electric bills, Solar power installations are a welcome visitor to Rancho Cordova. Solar slashes the cost of electricity Solar does not cause waste or pollution Solar is easy to install Solar panels require little maintenance More ways to benefit from solar With technology and innovation, there will be more and more ways to use this plentiful resource. You can further the savings by expanding the utility of your solar panels for maximum benefit. Get More From Your Solar Panels in Rancho Cordova Download smart apps to monitor your solar panel output, and your usage to ascertain the most productive hours. Utilize the high energy-consuming appliances during your solar panel’s most productive hours. Use Energy Star appliances - nearly 40 percent less energy. Keep your panels clean –to prevent a reduction in energy yield. Make sure to trim trees and foliage, so they don’t shade your solar panels from the sun. Expand the Usefulness of Solar Heat your pool and spa or even a sauna without breaking the bank Add extra solar panels to expand the potential of your panels to power future innovations in smart home technology Store auxiliary power with a Semper Solaris Battery Backup system to meet nearly 90 percent of your energy needs and have power if the grid goes down. Add an EV Station if you plan to buy an electric car. (this is where a backup battery can save the day) Semper Solaris is the best solar contractor in Rancho Cordova to help the city and its residents improve the environment through solar power and its many benefits. We have a reputation for excellent customer care, and our technicians are the best in their field. Experienced and knowledgeable in all things solar, Semper Solaris is the right choice. Contact us today for a free evaluation for a solar installation.
Elk Grove is a quiet, friendly suburban town in Sacramento County. With young professionals and their families living in this highly rated town, Elk Grove is considered one of the best places to live in California. Elk Grove is committed to the environment and renewable energy. They protect endangered species and habitats and is the home of the Stone Lakes wildlife refuge. This attention to preserving the environment and conservation makes it a healthy and safe place to raise a family. More and more Sacramento County homeowners are switching to solar power as the alternative energy of choice. Semper Solaris is the best Solar Company in Elk Grove. We are standing by to help Elk Grove homeowners take advantage of our many financing options and financial incentives available to offset the cost of installing solar. Solar Power to the Rescue in Elk Grove Those of us who are environmentally conscious, and want to live in a clean environment, have traditionally been stuck with having to compromise. Our electricity runs off fossil fuels; our air conditioning uses toxic chemicals; our cars run on petroleum. There has, until now, been little choice in how we get our electricity or drive our vehicles and a host of other ways we are on the receiving end of toxicity of modern inventions. Solar power technology has been around for decades, before now, it was not widely available to homeowners. It was expensive and cumbersome and not easy to use. When the laws changed that allowed for solar systems to be tied to the grid, net metering it opened the door for the growth of rooftop solar. Solar and Net Metering Solar panel installations in Elk Grove, like in the rest of California, have the advantage of using net metering, which connects to your solar panels and works in tandem with the utility grid. This process allows us to reduce our carbon footprint while still using electricity from the grid when we need it. But we can nevertheless reduce our carbon footprint by using less power from the grid, which relies on fossil fuel. How does net metering help me use Solar Power in Elk Grove? Net metering is a means to connect your solar panels to the electric grid. Your panels produce power while the sun shines, and this power is used for electricity in your home. Unused power goes to the grid, and you get that amount credited back to you, so you don’t lose excess energy. You can use that power to run the electricity at night. So you save money, but you are charged the higher rates during peak hours. So basically, you get discounted after hours because of the credits you have accrued. Power on the Roof in Elk Grove As homeowners are installing solar panels in Elk Grove and all over Sacramento County, it is creating a blueprint for the future of renewable energy. Solar power is more efficient when there is lots of sunshine. And on the roof is where that sun shines day after day. California is moving away from fossil fuels, and with solar power, roof by roof, it will have an effect on the environment for the air, the water, and the earth. Semper Solaris is the best solar company in Elk Grove for your energy needs. We are committed to the environment, and we stand ready to help you with financing and financial incentives so you can make the switch to renewable energy. Contact us today for a free evaluation of your property for going solar in Elk Grove.
SOLAR PANELS—HOW TOUGH ARE THEY? Santa Clarita residents are going solar—the price is low, the time is right, and the sun shines bright--- providing the best conditions for rooftop solar. Solar power has become one of the most reliable ways to power homes while reducing carbon footprint all over California and beyond. If you are considering installing solar energy in your home or business, you want your investment to be a smart decision. You know it will save you money—but what about how it will hold up over time? How durable are the panels and, living in California, what about earthquake damage? The Panels Solar cells are made of thin glassy cells and are very thin. Solar panels are made up of these cells with a frame around the edge to protect the cells from cracking. The best quality solar panels have protective exterior coverings of tempered glass or protective laminate like car windshields. Solar panels with top-quality design are highly durable. Strength Solar panels are designed to withstand a broad range of temperatures, weather, and other outside factors. They have controls to keep them from cracking in extreme hot or cold weather. They are tested to handle falling debris, hail storms and very high winds. And though the panels look delicate, with proper maintenance they can last over 20 years and beyond. Solar Systems are not invulnerable, and location can affect damage potential so their positioning should be where falling rocks or trees cannot damage them. Standards The California building code has guidelines for solar panels wind and weather conditions. Manufacturers and installers alike, are adopting new guidelines by The Structural Engineers Association of California, SEOC specifically targeting seismic activity. The Roof One of the primary considerations when installing the solar panels and their durability is the condition of the roof. The weight of the panels is light, but if the roof is not strong enough and the solar panels can be damaged as well. Semper Solaris is top-notch when it comes to the building or repair of roofs. Secure Mounting The solar system must also be properly attached to the roof with a mounting system that can prevent the panels from dislodging in extreme conditions such as in an earthquake. They could fall off the racks and disable wiring and piping systems in the units causing leaks. Semper Solaris uses the highest rated mounting racks from Ironbridge.com. They build the most durable and reliable brackets that have been tested and proven in extreme weather and conditions. Efficiency and Reliability Solar panels are shown to be very dependable with a low failure rate. In harsh climates, the failure rates are higher than the norm. Having a reputable manufacturer and installer is the key to reliable and long-lasting Solar panels. Call us today and schedule an evaluation of your home for a solar power installation. We can examine your roof and determine the best course of action for going solar.
Poway is considered one of the best places to live in California. With its clean neighborhoods, activities for families, and community involvement, it is a beautiful place for young families and professionals to live, work, and play. In Poway, we are committed to the environment, and "The City is committed to maintaining a sustainable community and is changing its operations to conserve resources" We want to make life better for all habitats in our community. Keeping green spaces, clean water, air, and reducing waste are worthy goals for the future of Poway. Semper Solaris has been serving the City of Poway since 2014, installing solar panels on rooftops and helping residents save money on electricity while reducing their carbon footprint. We are pleased to offer HVAC services alongside our Solar Panel Installation and expert Roofing services. We believe that Heating and Air Conditioning in Poway is the key to more efficient and effective energy strategies both for the environment and inside the home. HVAC and Your Health Whether you are on the go with family or involved in your community volunteer projects, you spend the most central hours of your day inside your home. From enjoying a meal and relaxing to sleeping and waking up refreshed, or not, your indoor air affects your health and wellbeing. You don't often realize that your HVAC is the invisible partner in your comfort or discomfort in your home. Whether it's too hot or cool, stuffy or humid, or has a barely noticeable odor at times, your HVAC affects the quality of your air either negatively or positively. Technological advances in HVAC have enhanced the usefulness and efficiency of heating and air conditioning that overcome the problems with indoor air quality. New energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems not only heat and chill the air, but they also filter and clean it to achieve an indoor air quality that is comfortable and safe. We offer heating and Air Conditioning Services in Poway. You can take advantage of the HVAC improvements that not only save on electricity but deliver when it comes to the air quality in your home. Solar Power and HVAC in Poway Homeowners in Poway are installing solar power in businesses and homes and reaping the many benefits of using renewable and clean energy, both health-wise and economically. Solar saves money on electricity, and you have a lower carbon footprint by reducing the need for fossil-fuels. But to benefit on a local level, inside your house, you need efficient heating and air conditioning with all the technological advancements. It will save you even more on your electricity usage and improve the livability factor inside your home. At Semper Solaris, we care about your health and comfort. We know Solar Power is the energy that best sustains a clean environment. Solar Power gives you the option of getting more out of your electricity without breaking the bank. We offer heating and Air Conditioning Installation in Poway alongside our Solar Installations with the full range of benefits that come with new technologies in HVAC.
Ontario, Southern California’s gateway and one of the largest cities in Riverside County, is a place where business and industry thrive. With manufacturing, retail, technology, and a robust transportation system, the city is growing. Large companies are investing in Ontario. It is a great place to live, with lots of things to do, much like Los Angeles, but without the aggravation. As more and more businesses and families move to Ontario, it is an excellent time to consider retrofitting with solar power for your home-based business. You can have an impact on other homeowners when it comes to the environment and help transform this city into a model not only for industry but for protecting the environment. Showing leadership in this way will enhance the image of your brand and improve the air quality for those who work and live here. Semper Solaris is committed to renewable energy and reducing pollution. We are the premier Solar Power Company in Ontario. We are experts in solar panel installation for your home. SOLAR POWER INSTALLATION IN ONTARIO REDUCES POLLUTION With Ontario’s air already compromised from airports and freeways nearby, the move towards protecting the air in the city where we work and play will have a significant impact on the quality of life. There are many ways to reduce pollution and protect the city environment from emissions. One of the best ways to cut down on pollution is through Solar Power installation in Ontario. Solar power is the leading source of renewable energy in the world. It is cost effective, creates no waste, and reduces the need for fossil fuels that pollute the air, water, and green places. FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF SOLAR IN ONTARIO If you run a small business from your home, there are economic benefits in switching to solar power in Ontario. You can profit in significant ways from solar tax credits and lower your operating costs. The savings from no or low energy expenses can augment your budget for expansion through these savings on your power bills. Your home will be facilitating the development of a clean, enjoyable community for residents as California moves away from fossil fuels into a sustainable, beautiful, clean energy state. Semper Solaris can help you find the right solar financing in Ontario. Reasons to go solar with your home-based business in Ontario Be a leader in your community Savings on power bills Tax incentives Rebates to offset the cost of installation Lower your carbon footprint How your home-based business can help your community by going solar Influence the city, businesses, and residents Clean air and water Noise reduction Energy independence Job creation Whether for the financial investment or to save the planet. Semper Solaris is the premier solar contractor in Ontario for your solar needs. We have years of experience in the installation of solar systems. With many options for installation from rooftop to ground-mounted systems, we can help you choose the best solar option and financing for your business.
Solar Power is the preeminent, most efficient renewable energy in the world. And in California, solar incentives and tax credits have put solar power within range for homeowners. Residential solar in San Carlos is growing fast. Going solar will save you money, and you can even slash your electric bill. Solar power will give you a hedge against rising electricity prices rising each year. And Solar is an investment that will increase the value of your home. First, the Roof The first step in going solar is the initial evaluation of your property. And the most significant issue when installing solar panels is the condition of your roof. If your contractor finds that you need a new roof before installing panels, you will need to do that first. There are not many solar contractors that install roofs along with solar. Semper Solaris is an exception and is the top contractor for solar roofing in San Carlos. We are experts in the design, construction, and repair of roofs as well as solar panel installation. We provide top-notch service with knowledgeable, experienced technicians and engineers. We will get your solar power up and running in no time. Roof Installation or Replacement Unless your roof is relatively new or even in good condition, it is probable that your roof will need repairs at some point. An older roof will degrade faster than your solar panels, so it is beneficial to take into account the life expectancy of your roof vs. solar panels. Panels can last for 35 years. A roof can last as long depending on the design and materials used in its construction. If your roof is 5 to 10 years away from needing replacement, it is a smart idea to consider replacing it before you install solar panels. In the event you need Roof Installation while solar panels are attached to your roof, it is a costly process that requires removing the panels and possibly the hardware. Then after the roof is repaired or replaced, there is the cost of reinstalling the panels and reconnecting the wiring. This process will be an expense over and above the Roof Installation or replacement. Installing a new roof along with your solar panels will make the most of your investment. You will save money by avoiding the expense of removing and reinstalling your solar panels in the future. If you combine a new roof with a new solar installation, it is unlikely that you will need to replace your roof for the lifespan of your panels. Panels are stronger and more durable than roofing material, and as a bonus, they will extend the life of your roof. A solar power installation in San Carlos will save you thousands of dollars throughout the life of your solar system. The added cost of reroofing is well worth it in the long run. Other Benefits of a New Roof Replacing the roof on your home increases your property value, improves energy efficiency, significantly decreasing the cost of your utility bills even before installing solar power. If you need roof replacement anyway, why not install solar along with the new roof? It is a wise investment to make, and the financial benefit is enormous for both savings and value-added to your home. If you already plan on installing solar on your rooftop, why not start clean and fresh with the addition of a brand-new beautiful roof? Financing your Roof and Solar Installation There are several ways to finance your roof and solar system. You can cash in on the low prices, incentives and get tax credits to help cover your solar costs in San Carlos. Finance your investment with an energy efficiency loan. Take advantage of rebates and incentives to offset the cost of both your solar panels and roof installation. Fannie Mae Homestyle Energy Loans are available through your mortgage lender. Semper Solaris can help you with solar loan and other financing options. Semper Solaris is the most reliable solar contractor in San Carlos. And we have built our reputation on the expert construction of roofs and Roof Installation. We offer excellent warranties on roofing and solar installations and give considerable discounts when you install a new roof along with your solar panels. Call us today for an evaluation of your property for solar installation in San Carlos.
Solar Panels For the Right Reasons With the cost of solar installations getting lower and lower, homeowners are making the smart move of going solar. Take advantage of the low prices, rebates, and incentives, and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. This move towards renewable energy is good for consumers, good for the economy, and good for the environment and the air you breathe. Solar Saves You Money Going solar will save you money, and you can reduce and even eliminate your electric bill. Your solar system connects to the grid and unused power from your solar system is fed back into the grid giving you credits while saving your generated electricity for the times your solar is not producing energy. Using solar power gives you a hedge against rising prices. And by producing your electricity and monitoring your usage, your energy bill will be more predictable and protect you from fluctuating energy prices. If you have a PPA, then your electric bill is the same from month to month all year long. Solar As an Investment Whether you choose to buy or lease your solar system, you will reap the benefits of lower electric bills and save money. By purchasing your system, the incentives and rebates will offset the upfront costs giving you a return on your investment. In a few years, when your system is paid off, you will reap the benefits even more with tax deductions for depreciation. And with the cost of electricity rising each year, a reduction in the cost of electricity can match or outperform traditional investment instruments. Solar Increases Property Value Investing in a solar system will increase the resell value of your home, and in most cases, the sale of the house will more than cover the total cost of installing the system. Adding a solar system is considered an upgrade like other home renovations. According to the Department of Energy, home buyers are willing to pay a premium and homes with solar tend to sell faster if they are energy efficient. Going Solar Helps the Economy Solar is among the fastest growing industries in both installation and manufacturing as more and more Americans are getting on board with Solar Power. Innovation spurs economic growth, and Solar is at the forefront of bringing new ideas and new jobs to the U.S. economy. Solar Advances Energy Independence Solar power helps promote energy independence which protects from price fluctuations and dependence on foreign fuel sources – because sunlight is free. Solar Helps the Environment And most of all, Solar power helps protect the air by reducing the need to burn fossil fuels, the leading cause of pollution. Solar produces no pollution and has a positive effect on reducing greenhouse gases. They say that the elimination of carbon emissions from a residential solar power system is like planting around 100 trees per year. So why not plant a few trees and have the satisfaction of knowing you are participating in the future of renewable energy while enjoying the financial benefits? Semper Solaris offers the best in Solar products and installation. We have various solar financing options available from buying to leasing and guarantee our work with a 25-year warranty. If you are contemplating installing a solar power system in your home or business, we have the experience, credentials, and expertise to make going solar an easy option. Call Semper Solaris for an appointment today and let us help you go solar. How does Solar Energy Work? The sun rises and shines down on your solar panels. Sunlight is made up of photons, tiny bursts of energy which emanate from the sun and hit the photovoltaic panels (solar panels). Photovoltaic is the process of chemical conversion of light to electrical power. And so, begins the progression of collecting the sunlight and converting it into electricity for your home.It produces clean energy, has no moving parts and needs no fossil fuels for power. Solar Panels Solar panels are comprised of a system of various parts that work together to collect and transform the sun’s energy into electricity. Many smaller units or photovoltaic cells are linked together with metal frames and wiring connecting throughout the panels. The panels have a mounting system and are arranged at the best angle facing the sun to convert the power generated into Direct Current (DC). The total cells per solar panel and the number of panels in a solar system is directly related to how much energy is created. Solar Cells Semiconductor material like silicon forms the small photovoltaic cells or modules. Although there are several types of semiconductor materials, silicon is the most common type used in making solar panels. These are busily at work allowing particles of light (photons) to pass through the material causing the electrons to break free to begin the process of creating an electrical current. Each cell needs to create an electrical field to generate a current. Each cell has both a positive and negative layer and works like a battery. The electrical field forces the electrical current out of the cell, or semiconductor, into the metal contacts and wiring that connects the cells and the panels. The current flows into the inverter where it converts the Direct Current (DC) into Alternating Current (AC) which is the current that runs throughout your home. Solar Inverters A solar inverter takes the DC from the solar panels and transforms it into AC. The inverter operates much like the Central Processing Unit, the brains, of a computer. It not only inverts DC to AC, but the inverter also provide grounding protection, monitors the system, voltage, and current on the circuits, monitors the production of energy and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) which is the maximum available power. There are central inverters that optimize the entire solar system, and Micro-inverters which monitor each panel. Inverters are tied into your home and usually to the grid through a meter. The process of collecting and converting sunlight to electricity goes on throughout the day until nightfall, when the panels stop generating energy. The energy that was not used by the home during the day is funneled back into the grid, and that power is credited back to you. In the evening, the network begins to deliver the unused credits in the form of electrical power back to the home to run the lights and television and other devices used at night. Semper Solaris knows how solar works, we know how to find the best and most cost-effective options available with the highest quality products and installation. We have various options for panels, for inverters, and should you want to be energy independent, we provide solar backup systems to store your unused energy for later use—saving even more money on your utilities. Call us for an evaluation of your property and let us help you go solar. Choose the Right Solar Financing Options With the cost of solar going down, now is the time to cash in on low prices, incentives, and rebates which are available from the Federal and State and City governments. These incentives paired with a solar loan are an attractive investment for homeowners and homeowners are cashing in. The upfront costs of solar, should you choose to buy, will be eased by the tremendous savings, tax deductions, and added value to your home. And if you decide to lease there is no upfront cost, a PPA is the way to lower your utility costs and regulate your monthly electric bill —saving money from the get-go. You will benefit not only financially, but your community and the environment will reap the rewards. Solar Loans A solar loan is a good option for those wanting to purchase their system. Solar loans are comparable to other home improvement loans but focused on energy efficiency projects. hey are offered at banks or solar panel manufacturers. And, you can take advantage of the Tax Credits and available deductions as well as the incentives and rebates. Things to Consider: Savings on your monthly bill compared to loan payment Incentives and Rebates from Federal, State, and City Tax deductions for investment in Solar Subsidized loans Secured and unsecured loans Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Loans Finance your solar energy installation with a PACE program. A PACE loan is available to homeowners through an authorized PACE provider. PACE financing is attached to your property and paid through the annual property tax bill. The tax rate determines the interest rate, and if you sell your home before you pay off the loan, the balance transfers to the buyer. Home Energy Renovation Opportunity (HERO Program) The HERO program is a residential Property Assessed Clean Energy PACE program offered by Renovate America, a home renovation lender. HERO financing is for home improvements and solar and energy efficiency residential projects. Fannie Mae Homestyle Energy Loan With a Fannie Mae Homestyle Energy loan, you can finance your solar installation. They offer affordable and flexible options to homeowners for energy efficiency and disaster preparedness improvements. What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA? Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) PPAs offer all the benefits of using a solar panel system without having the upfront cost of purchasing it. The PPA provider installs solar panels on your property, and you pay them a below market rate for the electricity for a set term, usually 20 years. The provider owns, maintains the system, an in return, receives the rebates, incentives and Tax Credits for the installation. Things to Consider: Rent or own your home? The upfront cost of solar installation Financial burden from a solar loan Savings from the lower cost of electricity Reduced Carbon Footprint Whether you lease or buy your solar system, it is a smart idea to reduce your home’s energy expenses while reducing your carbon footprint. Semper Solaris offers a variety of financing options. You will enjoy the benefits of low-cost financing for your system and reap the rewards of going solar. Call us for an evaluation of your property and to discuss all the financing options available and go solar. How to Choose the Right Solar Company So, you have decided to join the trend of going solar. What next? Investing in Solar is an important decision and a long-term investment. The most critical step in making this big decision is to find the right solar company. Your installer should be experienced and have a good reputation for top quality work and the very best solar panels available. Going solar is a complicated process, and there are many things to consider when choosing a solar provider: Evaluation of Your Property Design and Layout of the Solar System Permits and Inspections The Right Solar Financing Options Many situations can arise during the process of installing a solar system. Your installer must be very thorough in assessing your home’s readiness for solar. For instance, if your roof is too weak for the system, your roof could collapse under the weight of the panels. The company you choose should be expert in Roof Installation and construction. You can Google to find solar companies in California and see which companies are a good fit. You should have a list of more than one company and get quotes from each one. Reputation & Reviews Check companies in your state local areas and make your list based on the reputation of the companies: Reviews on Yelp, Facebook, Google Business, and Better Business Bureau Angie’s List and other online sources SolarReviews.com News articles Recommendations from satisfied customers Credentials & Expertise It is essential to know the experience of a company, and whether they have the proper certifications and licenses. You should be able to find these out on their website. Things to Ask Your Solar Company: How long have they been in business? Do they handle all the permits and paperwork for city and state require? Can they provide examples of previous installations with testimonials? Do they have a business license for their state and jurisdiction? Do they have liability insurance? Proper Solar Company Certifications: North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABC) General contracting, electrician and home improvement licenses Quality Products & Solar Installations: What options and types of solar panels do they offer? Do they use the latest solar technology? Do they use the best installation equipment such as solar mounting brackets and reinforcement? Do they offer Product and installation warranties? Do they offer multiple solar financing options? The top companies offer a variety of the most popular and reliable solar panels and equipment using the latest technology. They offer warranties on products and their expert installation. they only use the sturdiest brackets and reinforcement systems available. Attentive and Helpful Service The relationship between you and your solar company should be built on trust. They should accurately represent costs as well as projected savings on electricity and have a track record of happy customers. Look for companies that have a reputation for exemplary customer service. Semper Solaris’ core values like trust, loyalty and high-quality service. We will steer you through the process answering all your questions and addressing all the problems that arise promptly. We do have a track record of happy customers. Call us today to schedule an evaluation of your home. There has never been a better time to go solar! Play the Safe Bet: Always Choose American Made Solar Panels If you are thinking about going solar and want to begin the process, how do you choose the best solar panels when you finally decide to go solar? There are numerous available options for solar panels on the market today, and the choices seem daunting. But you can narrow down your options and choose the most efficient, reliable panels made. An excellent place to start is by looking at the most popular and reliable brands used by the top Solar installers. Solar panels are made in manufacturing plants all over the world. China is leading the way in sheer volume of manufactured panels. But the unfair competition from China and their illegal practices has resulted in a tariff on Chinese solar panels, paving the way for North American Solar manufacturers to once again dominate the market here in America. The most reputable Solar Companies use American made solar panels which have proven to be the most reliable and efficient, and are the superior option in quality, price, and economics. Quality & Economy American manufacturers adhere to the highest standards of quality and offer top-quality panels to their customers. Semper Solaris chooses premium panels for both quality and economy. Benefits America Solar is the fastest growing energy source, and there are huge benefits from American solar-panel manufacturing. Since the tariff on foreign-made panels has taken effect, American Solar manufacturing is reestablishing their standing in the field of solar technology. Jobs in the solar manufacturing sector are on the rise as well as transportation, engineering and goes so far as to affect education, taxes and other government policies including clean energy practices. The move towards a renewable energy economy will allow for energy independence as we break free from the price controls of the utility companies. American-Made Solar Panels America is the pioneer of solar energy. Solar panels manufactured in America benefit from American innovation. They provide more choices, not only in quality and price but promote a renewable energy economy as we move away from fossil fuels. Why Buy American Made Solar Panels? Reliability—proven track record Highest efficiency = greater customer satisfaction Highest environmental and safety standards Warranties – Semper Solaris offers a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty Accountability – Manufacturers that stand behind their products Customer Service – fast replacement in the case of defective panels At Semper Solaris, we use the very best products made in America and choose leaders in the manufacture of solar panels that comply with our standards. We are leading the way in promoting solar products made in America. You can count on our top-notch service and the highest quality products made in America. Understand the Solar Installation Process If you are considering going solar it is essential to understand the process from beginning to end. There are many aspects to the process, and you need an installer has experience in every facet, so the project does not get bogged down. You will first decide upon a reputable provider that meets your needs, and they will do an initial inspection of your site. They will take measurements and discuss the options with you, including how much you will save on your utility bill, the available rebates, incentives, and financing options. Site Assessment After the initial signing of your solar contract lease or loan, you will begin the first phase of your installation which is the assessment by an engineer or technician to evaluate your home for the installation. This visit is more in-depth than the initial evaluation to begin the process. Evaluation The condition of your roof’s structure to make sure it will support the panels Your electrical panel for compatibility with the solar system The system design for compatibility with your home. Evaluate the sunlight and shade for placement of the panels on your roof. Calculate how much sunlight your system will be able to capture Paperwork & Documents Your installer will handle most of the paperwork and the permitting of your solar power and will only have you sign on the dotted line. There is much work to be done, and the paperwork lays the groundwork so that all the bases are covered before the installation process begins. Building permits from City State and Federal Solar incentives Local solar programs Clean Energy Financing programs like PACE Solar System Equipment After the paperwork and permits, it is time to choose the equipment and design the solar system for your home. Your Solar provider will help you select the best equipment and components for your situation. But it is a good idea to have something in mind before you discuss final plans. Once the equipment is on order, the date of installation will be scheduled according to your installers availability. Permits approved (30 to 60 days) Approve system design Choose and Order equipment Solar panels Inverters Supporting hardware and wiring Installation of Solar Components The permits have approval. The equipment arrives. And now it is time to install your solar. It will take around two or three days to complete depending on the design and preparation of the roof. Solar Panels Electrical panel Electrical wiring. Racking to support panels Connect inverter to panels Final Approval & Connecting to the Grid Once your inverter is installed, and the DC is converted to AC it is time to connect to the electric grid. The city planning and electric company will come to inspect your solar installation: Make sure the system meets all regulations. The system is installed correctly Has proper connection points Check that electrical systems are working properly Once these have approval, it is time to be connected to the grid and with a flip of a switch—you are now generating clean, renewable energy and the savings begin. Understand the Solar Permitting Process After you have signed your contract for your solar with your provider and done the necessary paperwork including financing and all applicable incentives and rebates, you will have an initial inspection of your site followed by site assessment. Any significant structural changes to your home require permission from your local government planning office. The permitting is critical to ensure your installer is meeting all applicable building codes. If they don’t, then you must start all over again. Permits Your installer will file the various applications for permits. Permitting involves the city and county governments, and it is dependent on how fast they approve. Some cities are stricter than others. Your installer should be experienced in this process and will take it from here handling the applications for permits and follow through to final approval. You will only need to sign the paperwork. Building Codes The permitting process for solar involves several parts of the Californian Building Code Title 24: Building Code Residential Code Electrical Code Mechanical Code Plumbing Code Energy Code Fire Code As you can see, there are many rules and regulations involved in the permitting process. It can get very complicated and sometimes drag the process out. The good news is, In California, the Solar Permitting Efficiency Act (Assembly Bill 2188), passed in 2014, made it a requirement that all local governments adopt ordinances that expedite the permitting process for small residential solar systems. Other states have also implemented expedited permitting processes for Solar Systems. Your experienced installer will know how to advance the process so that they can install your rooftop solar within the earliest possible timeframe. Application Review The local permitting agency must review permit applications to ensure compliance with state and local requirements. Structural safety Electrical safety Planning and Zoning Fire Safety After you have gone through the necessary permitting approval of your system design and it meets all the required building codes, it is time to order the equipment and set a date for installation. The installation will take a few days. And once the installation is complete, you have one more hurdle in the permit approval process. Final Inspection & Approval The city government inspector will check the installation to be sure the wiring was done correctly and that the mounting is attached, and the system meets all electrical and roof and building codes. Following that, your electric company will do a final inspection. It will take approximately two weeks to a month for final approval before your system is given the green light to connect to the electric grid. The system will be connected, and it is time to flip the switch. Your solar system connects to the grid, and your solar panels will begin generating power and saving you money. Semper Solaris technicians are knowledgeable and proficient in installing solar from the initial site inspection through the final approval of your system going live. We handle all the paperwork and permits and are there with you every step of the way. Call us today for a free evaluation and consultation. We will help you on the road to going solar. Monitoring Your System: How to Keep Track of Your Energy Production If you plan to install a rooftop solar system in your home, you already know you will save money. But how do you see the amount of power your panels are generating or how much money you are saving? Photovoltaic cells in the solar panels transform sunlight into energy and energy into direct current (DC). The inverter is connected to your homes electrical system and converts DC to AC for use in your home. You can increase the productivity of your solar panels by monitoring your system to achieve peak solar power efficiency. You can take advantage of products and services to get the most benefit out of your system. Net Metering Most solar systems connect to the grid through Net metering or net energy metering. A net meter replaces your regular electric meter on your house and is connected to the power from your solar system and the grid. Net metering monitors your solar power generation and usage and keeps track of energy that is routed back into the network grid and stored there. What you don’t use is credited back to you to be used when your panels are not producing electricity, like at night or on very cloudy days. It is possible to build up enough extra credits during the summer months so that you can use them in the winter. If you generate enough electricity from your panels, you can eliminate your electric bill. Web Monitoring Solar monitoring software for your system works through the solar inverter to monitor your solar system’s performance in real time. Your solar system will come with built-in software for this purpose. It will track the energy generated and energy use. It will help you optimize energy usage and detect problems in your system. It is essential to monitor your system, so you are sure it is operating at optimal levels. The information gathered by the software is sent to your installer through a cloud-based system with a website where you can view your system statistics. Web monitoring works with computers, mobile apps, and smart home devices. You can access the data from your mobile devices without connecting to your Wi-Fi. Spot problems in real time and minimize your system’s downtime See your day to day, monthly, and yearly savings See the benefits of upgrading to more efficient appliances and fixtures Adjust your power usage to match the production of your panels and eliminate your utility bill Run appliances during your optimum solar generation. Tweak your power usage by identifying appliances using the most power Program appliances like your refrigerator to use energy when the rates are lower Semper Solaris’s solar panels are installed with a state-of-the-art monitoring system which allows you to keep track of your solar energy production. Our monitoring support specialist will help you access your system through your home computer, a mobile app, or device. You can log on any time to view your system’s performance. There is no better time to go solar, call us today for an evaluation of your home and join the solar revolution. Maximize Your Investment: Why Using a Contractor for both Your Solar and Your Roof is a Smart Idea Now is time to go solar. The cost-benefit concerning savings on electricity is enough to justify the expense of installing a solar system on your roof. Add to that the value it adds to your homes resale value. The government incentives and tax rebates alone are enough to bring the price in range for homeowners. In a few years, the system will be paid off while you continue to profit from the reduced power bills. Solar & Roofing The most important consideration when installing solar on your roof concerning durability and the life of your solar system is the condition of the roof. It is essential to have your roof assessed for the ability to handle the weight of the solar panels. But maybe it would be better to maximize your investment and start fresh with a new roof combined with your new solar panels. Unless your roof is relatively new, it is likely your roof will need repairs or will degrade faster than your solar panels. Why not consider starting with a new roof and a new solar system and maximize your investment? If you replace your roof when you install solar panels, you will save money by avoiding the expense of removing and reinstalling your solar panels should you need to replace your roof in the future. Roof Installation vs. Replacement If you do have problems with your roof needing repair or replacement, there are labor costs involved in taking the panels off and putting them back on. If your hardware also must be removed, the cost will be a few thousand dollars higher than just the Roof Installation and panel removal. If you combine a new roof with a new solar installation, it is unlikely you will need to replace your roof for life of your panels. Panels last from 30 to 35 years and are much more durable than roofing material, and they will protect your roof from degradation. A solar power installation will save you thousands upon thousands of dollars throughout the life of the system. So, the added cost of reroofing is well worth it in the long run and is better than taking a chance that there will be problems with your roof later. The Right Solar Company Few solar companies offer roofing services. Choosing a solar company that is also an expert in the repair and construction of roofs, is a very safe bet. At Semper Solaris, we have built our reputation on the construction of roofs along with our solar installations. We offer warranties on roofing and solar as well as great discounts when you install a new roof along with your solar panels. If you need roof replacement anyway, consider installing solar along with the new roof. It is a wise investment to make, and the financial benefit is enormous for both savings and value added to your home. If you already plan on installing solar on your rooftop, consider starting with a clean slate by also installing a brand-new roof. Call us today, and we can evaluate your home for a new roof and solar system. Capitalize on Your Solar Investment – Battery Storage and How You Can Make Money with Solar If you have or are contemplating installing a solar system on your rooftop, why not capitalize on your investment? Maximize your savings with solar battery storage. You can profit from your solar installation from savings on your electricity. A penny saved is a penny earned. And battery storage can give you that extra penny or two. Profit from Solar With the cost of electricity rising, investing in solar makes sense. And you can create a profit scheme from using solar energy. Generating your power is a hedge against the rising and fluctuating energy costs. You can capitalize on the savings on utility bills and solar rebates and incentives, as well as the increased value of your home. The lowered cost of electricity through net metering is essentially selling excess power generated from solar, back to the grid. It comes back to you as credits in the form of electricity when your solar is not producing electricity. By selling your power back to the network, you are receiving credits toward your electric bill as good as cash. Maximize Profit with Backup Battery Adding a backup battery to your solar system will enable you to store extra power for your use, get a financial return, or be prepared for emergencies when the grid goes down. If your electric company charges high demand rates, or you have Time of Use (TOU) rate structures with high peak and off-peak rates, you can use your stored power to control costs. Electricity rates are lower during the daytime, and solar panels are producing the most energy. You can save energy in your batteries for use during high demand or peak hours and avoid the higher rates during that time. Or, you can use the power from your battery during off-peak hours and generate surplus energy to sell back to the grid during on-peak hours. You will save money and create an income by adjusting to changing rates. Some companies, like LADWP, have tiered rates designed to push your rate higher according to how much power used during your billing period. Depending on your power usage, and for heavy use days, you could feasibly use enough of your solar power to give you a deficit which would force you into a higher tier. With battery storage, you can monitor your energy and save your solar power to the battery to use on high use days or for overages and avoid all or most of the extra cost of higher tiered rates. Make a Move Towards Energy Independence If you are considering a solar system but have not yet made a move to go solar, Semper Solaris can help you make your decision with accurate and helpful guidance from our representative. Whether you have a system already or are planning to, Semper Solaris can install an Enphase Encharge Battery or Tesla Powerwall backup battery so that you have surplus power when you need it. You can use the extra energy to generate a profit from your solar power system or go off the grid. Call us today and let us help you maximize your solar investment for a financial return and move towards energy independence. Protect Your Solar System Solar panels are made of tempered glass and are designed to tolerate extreme temperatures, weather, and other outside factors. They are tested to handle falling debris, hail storms, and very high winds. But many other factors can cause damage to your solar system, and you have no further to look than your backyard. It is essential to safeguard your investment to avoid damage, loss of efficiency, and even theft. If you have installed Solar Panels on your roof, you will be saving a lot of money on your power bill. And although solar panels are reliable requiring little support, you can preserve and protect the life of your solar panels through regular inspection, maintenance, and cleaning. Solar Maintenance It is good to get a regular comprehensive examination of your panel system to see that it is performing at its optimal efficiency and that it is safe, with no issues to the electrical system and components. Inspection is especially critical if your solar system is a few years old. Comprehensive maintenance for your system should include: Inspecting the electrical system wiring and components Inspection of the roof for degradation Review of monitoring equipment Racks and mounting Checking for faulty wiring Replacing cracked or broken panels Thorough cleaning of panels Solar Cleaning Clear debris, such as leaves, or dirt (use garden hose) Schedule a cleaning with your solar panel provider OR Install a solar cleaning system Keep trees and foliage trimmed So panels are not shaded from the sun and to keep falling branches from damaging your panels Conserve Solar Power Monitor your system and know when your panels are the most productive. Adjust your power usage to when your system is generating the most electricity Use smart plugs or power strips to turn off appliances not being used Use timers on your devices and run the most power-hungry appliances during your optimum solar generation. Led lights 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs Motion sensor lights will cut down on unnecessary lighting in some areas Weatherize your home Store power – Semper Solaris can install an Enphase Encharge Battery or Tesla Powerwall backup battery for surplus power. Protect Solar Panels Alarm System Serial numbers for your home insurance Fence your property Use locks Pest Guards to keep rodents from nesting in your wires, roof, and panels At Semper Solaris, we are committed to top-notch solar energy installation, maintenance, and service to our customers. We offer a full system diagnostic with an inspection, tune-up and maintenance services for your solar system. If your system is older or you have any issues with your solar system, Semper Solaris is a company you can trust. Our solar experts can diagnose and fix any solar system problems you may have from the panels to the electrical system to the roof. If there is a problem—we can fix it–give us a call. Understand the Value Solar Panels Add to Your Home If you are contemplating or have decided to go solar and have a solar system installed on your rooftop, you will save money on electricity. And the benefits are not only financial you will reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to the efforts to move away from carbon-based fuels and towards renewable energy. But how does adding solar to your rooftop affect your bottom line over time? Solar Panels Increase Property Value The research is in, and study after study confirms that purchasing a solar power system for your rooftop will increase the value of your home. And the total cost of the system is offset by the rise in the home’s resale value even before taking into consideration the incentives and tax rebates. Purchasing Your Solar System Adding a solar system is considered an upgrade like any other home renovation only the return is much higher for solar than for a kitchen or bathroom. According to the Department of Energy, home buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with solar and homes tend to sell as much as 20 percent faster than homes without. And beyond that, the reduction in energy costs continue to produce excellent returns on the investment, saving thousands of dollars for many more years. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory Study shows that property value goes up about 20 dollars for each $1 in savings from a rooftop solar installation. Buyers are paying more to enjoy savings on their utility bills, which makes a mortgage payment more affordable. According to the Lawrence Berkeley Lab’s study, the rise in property value is approximately four dollars per watt on average. A 5 kW system or 5,000 Watts will fetch around 20,000 in increased resell value. So one kilowatt (kW) equals 1,000 watts times 4 giving a $4,000 increase in resell value. Here is the calculation for a 3.1 kW system: 3.1 kW system – 3.1 X 1,000 = 3,100 watts X 4 = $12,400 increase in resale value. Smaller systems increase the value of even more per watt than larger systems. Homebuyers consider any size solar installation to be an asset. According to studies, this is called the “green cachet” effect where homebuyers are willing to pay more to have solar.< Solar is beneficial for homeowners and homebuyers alike. It is clear that going solar is a smart investment that gives you a hedge against rising energy costs, and in most cases, outperforms traditional investment mediums. By purchasing your system, incentives and rebates will reduce the upfront costs significantly and give you a return on your investment. But how does Leasing affect this return and the resale value of your home? Solar Lease (PPA) In a Power Purchase agreement, PPA, the homeowner does not own the panels and does not make payments on the solar system. Instead, the PPA company installs, owns, and maintains the panels. You are either charged a set rate for the electricity produced or pay only for the energy used, and the company gets the benefits of rebates, incentives, and tax breaks. Solar leases can last up to 20 to 25 years. If you are leasing your solar system, the process of selling gets a bit complicated. For sure you are buying the system in the long run, but if you sell before your lease is up, how does that affect the resell value and purchase of the house? If you sell your home and have a PPA, there are two routes you can take. If the buyer will take over the lease and enjoy the benefits of the PPA, it can still be attractive because the buyer will save a lot of money on electric bills. If however, you wish to take the solar with you or the buyers do not want to assume the lease, what happens? It will likely require that you pay off the contract at a pro-rated amount and pay the cost of having the panels removed from the roof, repair the roof for the new buyers, and have the panels installed on your new home if that is an option. Installing Solar Panels? There are no reliable studies on how leasing solar affects the value of your home. In the future, that will be a consideration for reviews, but there is no data on it now. Either way, you and the buyer will benefit from lowered energy costs. So if you are wanting to install solar panels, but plan to sell your home in the future, you should find out all the terms for this process and make it part of the contract before you sign. Of course, with solar panel prices getting lower and lower all the time it is becoming more affordable. And with the addition of incentives, rebates, and tax breaks, purchasing is the better option to make sure you get the most value from your solar power system. There are many solar financing options, and we can help you find the right fit whether purchasing or leasing.
You’ve been working hard and acing life all year (extra credit if you have or are planning to install solar panels). As the holidays approach, you are well deserving of the greatest gift of all. A road trip! Cruising across America with your family or your best buds is an excellent way to escape the grind of everyday life, recharge your soul, and see some of the country’s best-hidden gems. Of course, leaving the rat race behind doesn’t mean you want to give up all of life’s modern conveniences. Besides recharging your soul, you also need to recharge your phone. Thanks to modern technology, you don’t have to lug a huge, expensive, and polluting gas generator with you to your pristine campground. Today’s solar technology is showing up in all sorts of amazing and useful camping and road tripping gear. As you begin to plan for your next epic road trip, let’s look at ten useful, solar-powered gadget that can work anywhere that the sun shines. 1. Solar-Powered Charger Getting away from it all is overrated. Instead, get away from most of life’s troubles and frustrations and keep the good stuff, like listening to your favorite podcasts on your phone, reading great books on your Kindle, or actually calling your mom. (You know it’s been too long!) To do this, you’re going to need a fully charged phone, and while you’re at it, let’s keep your Fitbit alive too, so it can congratulate you on the super long hike you’re planning during your trip. To keep your favorite and necessary gadgets going, pick up a handy solar-powered charger. There are plenty available on Amazon for under $50, including this one. Stick it in the sun for a few hours, and then plug in your USB cord and start charging your smaller devices. Your mom can’t wait to hear from you! 2. Solar-Powered Lanterns You aren’t about to go to bed just because the sun is setting. Bonfires are great, but they aren’t allowed everywhere, (especially in wildfire-prone California). Plus, you need focused light for reading or playing fun board games with your friends or family under the stars. For these instances, use a solar-powered lantern. You might be surprised at how bright the most current solar-powered lanterns can be and how long they can last. For example, the MPOWEERD Luci inflatable lantern can last up to 24 hours on its lowest setting. This particular model offers four different light settings, including a flashing mode that can be used in an emergency to request help. Best of all, this model is currently less than $20 at REI. Take a look at REI’s entire stock of solar-powered lanterns. 3. Solar Backpacks Are you planning to push yourself to the limits with some gnarly hikes during your road trip? Or maybe you prefer to spend all day getting lost in a new city. Either way, you can’t afford to have your phone (and especially your GPS or map app) conk out in unfamiliar territory. A solar backpack is a perfect solution. It charges while you walk around in the sun, and when it’s time for a snack break, plug in your phone or other devices to grab some extra juice. This Lifepack solar-powered backpack currently selling for $159 on Amazon includes six smartphone chargers that can provide a full phone charge every four hours. It also comes with Bluetooth speakers that can play for a whopping 96 hours on a full charge. For the hiker on a budget, Amazon also offers this solar-powered backpack for less than $60, and this one for only $20.99. 4. Solar-Powered Emergency Radio It’s always a good idea to plan for an emergency, especially if your road trip takes you to sparsely populated regions or places where cell phone coverage is spotty. If any major disaster strikes and you don’t have a phone signal, you’ll be glad to have a solar-powered emergency radio handy. This device can let you contact help, so you and your travel buddies can stay safe. The C Crane CC Solar Observer emergency radio provides between four and six hours of radio play after eight hours of charging. If you need to use it in a hurry and don’t have enough of a charge, the included hand crank will let you charge it much more quickly to immediately request help. As a bonus, the included USB adapter lets you charge your smartphone. Not a bad buy for under $50. 5. Solar-Powered Speakers You know what every great road trip needs? Music. Your car stereo will do the job while you’re on the road, but you don’t want to drain your battery during your stops, at night, or while camping. To keep the tunes coming, pick up solar-powered speakers. Today’s latest models are cost-effective and powerful. Most can keep the music playing all night long, or at least until campground quiet hours. The Sol Jam stereo speaker by ECOXGEAR charges in just three hours of full sunlight and offers Bluetooth connectivity, so you can jam to all your favorite playlists. The speaker is also waterproof, so clip it to your kayak or sing in the rain. No one will stop the beat on your road trip. 6. Solar-Capable Fridge One of the best parts of any road trip is the snacks, but if you want to bring any perishable foods or cook some tasty meals on the road, you’ll need a way to keep them cool so they don’t spoil. Unless you happen to be driving a camper with a convenient fridge installed, a cooler is probably your best option, but a standard cooler can only last so long without continual ice infusions. Stepping up to fill this need is the ACOPOWER solar-compatible solar fridge. This baby includes a lithium battery that can be charged with a solar panel (or a generator), allowing it to keep food cold. It can even act as a freezer if you want to bring some tasty meats along on your trip. The two big downsides of this model are the cost, $599 on Amazon, and the fact that you have to buy the solar panel separately. 7. Solar-Powered Car Battery Charger You do not want to find out the hard way that AAA doesn’t cover certain extremely out-of-the-way places in the country. If your battery ever dies, especially in the wilderness or on a lonely strip of highway in the middle of nowhere, you could be out of luck. (Which is another reason to have your solar-powered emergency radio handy). To keep that from happening, consider bringing along a solar-powered car battery with you. This useful device can top off your battery to keep it strong during your whole trip. This can be useful if you need to keep your headlights on to light your campground, or if your battery is getting on in the years. The Sunway Solar Car Battery Charger is designed to keep your car battery topped off no matter where you go (as long as there’s sunshine). It can also power any 12V battery, including trucks, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles and more. Best of all, it’s not very expensive, retailing for just $36.99 on Amazon. That’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. 8. Solar-Powered Water Purifier If your road trip includes some major hiking, backpacking, or mountain biking deep into the wilderness, you’ll need to stay hydrated. That stream may look fresh and clear, but you can’t know if there are some harmful bacteria waiting to ruin your trip! The Puralytics SolarBag uses sunlight to decontaminate water without chemicals, pumping, or electricity. Best of all, it doesn’t require equipment replacements every few trips. Just fill up the bag, and then let the sun do the rest of the work. In a few hours, you’ll have three fresh and healthy liters of water to drink. 9. Solar-Powered Generator If you need power on your road trip but would rather not have to deal with individual devices, consider investing in the Goal Zero Yeti 150 Portable Power Generator. This guy can power small devices, like your phone and e-reader, and also larger devices like your laptop if you need to handle a work emergency on the road. The beauty of the Goal Zero is that it can charge using a solar panel (not included), or from a wall outlet or even your car battery in an emergency. A single charge of the generator can provide two laptop recharges, six tablet recharges, and 15 cell phone recharges. This really is a convenient gadget to take on any long haul, especially at the reasonable price of just $199.95. 10. Solar Panels Rather than purchase devices that include solar technology, you can cut out the middle step and purchase solar panels. These panels can charge your fridge or your generator or even the battery of your car. Many RV aficionados are installing solar panels on their vehicles so that they can dry dock or boondock wherever the spirit takes them. Who says your road trip even requires a road? Boaters are also learning to love solar panels, which can allow them to charge their devices, keep the lights on, and keep the fridge humming without having to turn on their engine every hour or so. If you want to have it all on your road trip, or if this “trip” could turn into a wanderlust lifestyle, consider installing a solar panel array on your vehicle of choice. At Semper Solaris, we don’t sell solar backpacks or cell phone chargers, but we can help you install high powered solar panels onto your RV or boat so that you can stay charged throughout your trip. If you live in California, or if your journey will take you to the Golden State, give us a call to schedule a solar consultation. We are your California solar energy solution. Here’s wishing you plenty of happiness, adventures, and sunshine on the road!
Are you finally ready to get solar panels for your home? What an awesome decision! Top solar panels will help you slash your expensive energy bill and even help you do your part to protect this green-and-blue marble we call home. There’s just one teeny tiny speed bump on the road to glorious sunshine power. Your roof. Many homeowners eagerly start the process of solar installation only to discover that a roofing problem stops the project in its tracks. Don’t let roofing issues surprise you or your wallet! If your roof is damaged, aging, or simply not strong enough to bear the burden of your new solar system, then you’ve got to deal with that problem before you can go solar! Why Your Roof Is the Secret Key to Your Solar Panel Installation When you begin to research solar panels for your home, you will learn about all the different brands of solar panels available, as well as other important components of a photovoltaic system, like the inverter and the racking that holds the panels in place. Rarely is your home’s roof mentioned. That’s a shame, because your roof is a key component of your solar panel system. Your solar panels need to go somewhere, and while some homeowners choose to install their solar panels on the ground or even on carports, the majority of solar panels are installed on the roof. That means a roof must be sturdy enough to handle the solar panels. What you may not realize is that your roof is more than just a collection of tiles or shingles attached to the top of your home. A roof is actually a complex system made up of multiple layers that all work together to insulate your home and keep the elements out! A standard roof is comprised of: Roof Truss Decking Insulation Ice and water barrier Underlayment Wood frame Shingles or tiles If any component of these layers is damaged, it can weaken the entire structure of your roof and make it a bad idea to install solar panels. How do you know if your roof is damaged? Usually your roof will tell you! How to Identify Roof Damage You wouldn’t trust a chain with a weak link, right? That’s the same reason you shouldn’t install solar panels on a damaged roof. The most common types of roof damage are: Loose or broken tiles: This type of damage can easily be seen with the naked eye. Use a ladder to visually inspect your roof to search for loose or broken tiles or shingles. Worn down materials: Like all things, the components of your roof will simply wear out over time. Examples of age damage include bare shingles, shingle granules, and rust. As a roof ages, it becomes more fragile, and other problems are likely to quickly emerge. Water damage: When any component of a roof breaks down, water damage is soon to follow. Things like broken tiles, worn out sealants, torn underlayments, and more can result in water damage during the next rainstorm. Punctures and cracks: Trauma can crack the tiles of your roof or puncture the underlayment that is designed to keep out water. If something falls on your roof, if a roof installation is performed poorly, or even if someone walks on the wrong part of the roof, cracks or punctures can result! Standing water: Your roof is designed to efficiently shunt water off its surface, using its angled design, along with flashing and gutters. If you notice standing water on your roof, that indicates that something isn’t working. Structural damage: On rare occasions, the supports of your roof may shift, which can present a serious danger to you and your family. Roofs with structural damage are liable to collapse and must be addressed immediately! Not all roof damage is easily visible and identifiable, but it will eventually make itself noticed. The most telling symptom of a damaged roof is water damage to your home. You may notice water stains on your ceiling, interior walls, or exterior walls. This may turn into ugly mold or even result in active leaks during heavy rainstorms. If you notice any of these things, there’s a strong chance that your roof needs to be repaired or replaced before you even think of adding top solar panels. Why Your Roof’s Age Matters If you don’t see any water damage on your ceilings or get a free indoor shower every time it rains, does that mean your roof is fit and ready to handle solar panel installation? Not necessarily. One other factor you need to take into consideration is the age of your roof. That’s right, your roof can get old and fragile, just like us humans. The lifespan of your roof will depend on a number of factors, including: Its materials Its environment How well you (or the previous owner) cared for it Many roofs in California use clay tiles, which have a particularly long lifespan of nearly 50 years. Slate and copper roofs can last roughly the same amount of time. Wood shake roofs (which are more popular in the Northeast) have about a 30-year lifespan, while cement shingles tend to retire around 20 years. If you live in a particularly harsh environment, or if you’ve never resealed your roof or fixed noticeable damage, your roof’s lifespan may be cut short. What does it mean if your roof is nearing the end of its life, and how does that affect your goal of installing solar panels for your home? As the components of your roof wear out, tiles can be more vulnerable to cracking and the underlayment may easily tear. An old roof will not hold up well to drilling into tiles to install racking or carrying heavy solar panels. In fact, many older roofs were simply not built to handle the weight of solar panels. Before you call up a solar installation team to give you a price quote on solar panels, figure out the age of your roof. Many of us haven’t lived in our homes for 30 or 50 years, so finding this information can be difficult. Look through your home’s paperwork to see if a roof replacement is mentioned in the disclosures or contact the previous owner if you have their information. If your home is less than 30 years old, chances are that the original roof is still in place. If your roof is at or nearing the end of its lifespan, you will likely have to replace it before you can safely install solar panels. Why It Makes Sense to Repair or Replace Your Roof Before Getting Solar Panels for Your Home Let’s be honest. Repairing and especially replacing your roof is not an inexpensive prospect. If you were already planning to pony up a big chunk of money to install solar panels, the last thing you want to do is spend MORE money on your roof before getting your solar panels. As hard as it is to swallow, however, repairing or replacing your roof may be the right thing to do, even if it delays your solar panel installation. Think about it this way – you would never build a home on a foundation of sand, right? Your roof acts as the foundation for your solar panels. The stronger and better the roof, the longer your solar panels can do their job. If you try to cut corners and install solar panels on a damaged or aging roof, then you’re going to have to address those problems anyway in the future. Imagine how much more expensive it will be to have to call your solar installation company to take down your solar panels and then re-install them on your new roof. You’ll have to pay for the Roof Installation or replacement anyway, but doing it before installing solar panels on your home will save you lots of money and lots of headaches. Here’s another thing to keep in mind. Your roof plays a big role in insulating your home. One of the reasons you may always have to crank up the heat in the winter and the air conditioning in the summer is because your roof isn’t able to trap that heat or air conditioning. A new roof will make your home more energy efficient, which may decrease the size (and price) of the solar panel system you need to power your home. Here’s one more thing to consider. A new roof will increase the curb appeal of your home and increase its value, so some of that money you spent on fixing or replacing it will come right back to you when you sell. Why You Should Choose a Company That Provides Roof Replacements and Solar Installation You started this article just wanting to get solar panels for your home, and now you might to replace your roof too! That means you have to search out roofing companies in your area, schedule consultations, sign a contract, bring that team out… and then do it all over again for your solar installation contractor! Yikes, that’s a lot of work! It doesn’t have to be. Some solar installation companies also offer roof replacement services, including Semper Solaris. There are many reasons to work with just one company for your roofing and solar needs. First, you’ll save a lot of effort. It’s much easier to work with a single project coordinator than to research, assess, and hire two separate companies. Next, you’ll save time. It can take weeks to get on a contractor’s schedule. By combining projects, it will all be done be done together. Probably the biggest benefit of working with a single company for roofing and solar is that you can enjoy significant cost savings. At Semper Solaris, combining a roof replacement with solar installation allows us to be as efficient as possible. We are happy to pass those cost savings back onto our customers. We can even offer you financing options to make your roof replacement and solar panel installation more affordable. Sometimes getting solar panels for your home means repairing or replacing your roof first. With Semper Solaris, we can take on your full project and get solar panels on your new, sturdy roof before you know it. Contact us today to schedule a roof and solar consultation.
The decision to go solar is a big one. Even though you’re nearly certain to reap a financial return on your leap of faith, it’s no small investment to turn your home into a self-sustaining green energy machine. What’s more, with so many companies getting into the clean energy market, you may have more options for providers than you know what to do with. When it comes to solar panels in San Diego, cost can vary depending on a number of factors. Do you know what to look for in a good solar panel installer? Cost isn’t the only consideration, but we understand that affordability is probably at the top of your priority list. There’s more to cost evaluations than the purchase price of a solar panel. You can benefit from breaking down other associated costs to make sure your solar provider is giving you the most value for your investment. Here are some things to look for when you’re running a comprehensive comparison of San Diego solar providers. Evaluate the Efficiency of the Panels Providers Use How efficient are the panels proposed by your solar provider? If your provider uses less efficient panels, you are likely to end up needing more panels. More panels could increase the installation time, labor costs, and burden to your roof. In other words, while the panels may be cheaper individually the overall cost could increase. As you compare the costs of getting solar panels installed on your home, consider that more efficient panels cost a bit more up front. But they pay off big, too. These panels will take up less room on your roof, have a more reliable power yield, and boast excellent degradation rates. The providers who offer the best, most efficient panels are often delivering a better value in the long term. How long will you be in the home? If you want to personally take advantage of lower utility costs for years, going for more efficient models at the point of installation is a wise decision. The long-run value created by high-efficiency solar panels can include selling excess energy back to the grid, lower home utility costs, and may even improve the value of your home more than less efficient models. Ask About Inverter Costs Solar panels capture solar energy as something called a direct current (DC). Your home, however, runs most of its electronics and appliances on power called alternating current (AC). Inverters are the magic device that translates the power from DC to AC so you can use it. The type and subsequent cost of your inverter will depend largely on two things: the needs of your solar system and the preferences of your solar provider. Solar inverters fall into three categories: string, micro, or power optimizer inverters. String inverters connect all of your panels to the same inverter and are typically the cheapest option. Micro-inverters have a separate small inverter on each individual panel, and power optimizers are a hybrid of string and micro-inverters. If you notice your inverter costs are high with one provider, ask which type they’re using. The difference in inverter costs between providers is likely that one is recommending a centralized inverter while another prefers the micro models. Consider Labor and Permit Prices The costs may vary between providers who are using the same panels and inverters for a few reasons, including the labor and permit factors. Faster, more experienced installers may charge a premium to get the job done in a day. On the other hand, you can often score discounts by booking an appointment during the off-season. While labor costs vary, they are often based on the same metric: price per watt of installed solar. According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, labor costs are usually about 10% of your total system expense. In terms of the local market, this portion of your cost comparison is pretty straightforward. Simply ask for an itemized estimate on labor costs from a few different companies to get an average. You should do a bit of digging about proposed permit costs as well. Your provider will need to draft solar plans and submit them for approval, and they should be able to explain to you what the cost implications are and why. Don’t Equate Expense with Quality In addition to breaking down specific costs between panels, inverters, and permits -- you should bust a few broader myths as you investigate your local provider options. First, as alluded to above, don’t assume that a lower cost on solar panels means you’re getting the “best deal.” It’s tempting to jump at the lowest bid, but you could end up with a less reliable power source because you chose a discounted panel that has fallen out of industry favor for a reason. At the same time, paying more doesn’t mean you’re getting top of the line. Some consumers see a higher price tag and assume that they’re getting the best of the best. Look at industry reviews, ask the provider about why they recommend this panel, and look at the manufacturer’s website to view the costs yourself. There could be a lot of reason why a provider increases their prices, including the fact that national companies require a large marketing budget. Stick with quality over perceived exclusivity. Get a Quote for Roof Work at the Same Time Have you taken a look at the condition of your roof lately? As you look for solar panels in San Diego, cost analysis must include what, if any, work on your roof looks like. A good solar provider will recommend roof work to maximize the lifespan of your solar panels and keep them secured properly. Working with a company that does both roof replacement and solar panels means a more seamless experience. Juggling multiple vendors can make budgeting complicated and creating a realistic timeline a headache. If your Roof Installation team isn’t done by the time a separate solar panel provider shows up, you’re in trouble. Simplify the process and the cost by getting a quote for your roof at the same time you’re comparing solar costs and try to work with a single service provider. Look Into Financing Options Potential financing offers could also alter your cost comparison. Interest rates, required money down, and repayment terms are all worth your scrutiny as you decide on a local solar provider in San Diego. A percentage point could come down to thousands of dollars in the long run. Some providers don’t offer financing but can refer you to a trusted source where you’ll be able to obtain a reasonable rate. A provider that can work with you on reasonable financing and a payoff schedule could be saving you a lot of money up front, and then you can use some of your utility savings and selling excess energy to pay off the balance as quickly as possible. Don’t Forget About Warranties What if you get a great deal on your solar panels but a fluke manufacturing error causes problems in 11 years? Warranties protect you in the event of a problem with the materials or the installation workmanship. Avoid a future money pit by ensuring that you’re covered by warranties from the start. A typical manufacturer’s warranty lasts for about 10-12 years, but some solar panels have a materials warranty for up to 25 years. In short: factor in future costs when you’re comparing solar providers. Warranties are the best way to offset these hypothetical expenses. Are you ready to go green in San Diego? Solar panels cost enough to warrant a careful comparison before you accept a quote and sign a contract. Any provider worth their salt will be happy to explain their costs to you and give your project the attention it deserves. Never be afraid to ask for a breakdown of costs and post meaningful questions about anything you don’t understand. You are your own best advocate, even if you’re not a solar expert! Contact Semper Solaris today to learn more about the best solar panels for use in San Diego. We’ll deliver a no-pressure bid on your solar system and tell you if you need a roof replacement. Becoming energy independent is a huge deal, and you may just inspire your neighbors to get on board, too!
By now you’ve heard plenty of talk about how clean energy is the future of electrical power. You may have even considered putting solar cells on your own roof. But how much are solar panels? The potential expenses worry a lot of homeowners who are otherwise on board with being energy independent and putting an end to their reliance on fossil fuels. The answer to how much solar costs is somewhat complex -- but the overall trends are promising. Many states, including California, are promoting the addition of solar panels on all new homes. In fact: California will mandate that most new residential properties have solar panels as of 2020. The price of solar will be baked into the sale price of those homes. For the rest of us, there is still good news about how much solar costs now and what the costs are likely to be looking forward. Let’s break down some of the things that affect the costs of solar panels in the current market and what the future looks like. How Demand is Changing the Game Solar power is nothing new. Believe it or not, it dates back to the 1800s in California (though a PV panel was a long way out). In the 1970s, activists including Jane Fonda promoted solar as an alternative to energy monopolies. While solar has enjoyed popularity among environmentalists for a long time, logistics like funding and efficiency kept it out of the mainstream. Fossil fuels have had a stronghold on the grid for a very long time. The demand for solar, however, has seen a noticeable spike in the 21st century. Including for the average homeowner. According to data from Statistica, global demand for solar energy has jumped dramatically in the last 11 years. In 2007, there was a need for just 2.5 gigawatts of solar energy worldwide. By 2018, the demand for solar has reached a whopping 86 gigawatts. The company projects that by 2022, the global demand for solar power energy will reach more than 110 gigawatts. That’s a lot of green energy power! An increase in demand translates to more efficient manufacturing. This, in turn, can lower the costs of PV panels for the average consumer. As the head of the Solar Energy Technologies Office in the U.S. Department of Energy explains, solar accounted for just 0.01% of the U.S. electricity supply in 2006 but that figure reached 1.5% by the end of 2017. She explains that an increased availability of solar and lowered costs have allowed solar to turn a corner -- and predicts the trend will continue. How Solar Storage Makes Clean Energy Affordable Solar panels only capture energy when the sun is out, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the dark when the sun goes down. Solar energy can be stored and used later. When you have batteries onsite, your home will pull from saved energy when the sun isn’t out. Some batteries have enough storage to power your home for days or weeks if it’s particularly cloudy (though panels can still collect up to 25% of their regular energy even when cloud cover exists). Perhaps best of all, solar batteries mean your lights will still be on if there is a blackout in the community. But how does storage factor into solar costs? The advent of batteries for home solar has grown the potential for the industry. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s 2017 report regarding expected U.S. energy trends, “the availability of low-cost battery storage can significantly alter the expected buildout and operation of the grid.” If the costs of batteries continue to fall, solar will become even more accessible to all parts of the country and drive down costs per unit. How Laws and Tax Codes Affect Cost Answering the question “How much are solar panels?” also requires an evaluation of government tax credits and local laws. As of 2018, an extension of the federal Solar Tax Credit means homeowners can deduct up to 30% of the costs of their solar panel system from their next year’s tax returns. This offsets a considerable amount of the cost to buy and install a solar system! In future years, the amount of the credit is slated to taper off. By 2022, only commercial property owners will still get a tax credit for installing a new system. Of course, a new tax credit could always be implemented to create an incentive for residential homeowners to add solar panels to their property. Your local laws may also help dictate the ultimate cost of solar panels for your home. While states like Hawaii and California offer incentives like property tax exemptions and net metering for homeowners who go solar, some states are not seeing the light. The residents of Georgia, for instance, where solar is otherwise thriving, only have access to the federal tax credit. As more lawmakers see the potential in clean energy for their economy and energy efficiency -- the net cost to consumers could begin to drop for people in every state. How Different Solar Cells Could Impact Price You might think a solar panel is a solar panel… but you would be wrong! There are different types of PV panels, and the type of panel you choose could ultimately inform how much you pay for solar. What’s more, as innovation delivers even more options, future costs of solar could continue to decline. As for what is on the market today, there are two primary types of solar panels. A third type, thin-film solar cells, are currently less efficient and often take up too much space to be used on a residential roof. They are quite affordable, so if you have the space you may want to consider them. For most folks, if you’re looking for solar at home you’ll probably choose between: Monocrystalline panels: To make these panels, pure silicon is cut into bars and then cut into wafers. Because they use single-crystal silicon, they are more efficient than other panels. The solar energy that is collected has a lot of room to move around. This type of panel is more expensive than its counterpart, but you’re rewarded with the need for fewer panels. Polycrystalline panels: A polycrystalline panel is created using fragments of multiple bits of silicon to make the wafers. More crystals means less energy efficiency, but you’ll also pay less for these panels than for monocrystalline panels. If you have room for more panels, you can reduce your costs by going with polycrystalline solar cells. The long and short of solar panel options is that as efficiency becomes greater, the costs of all panels will likely decline. Remember how much a laptop used to cost? As tiny processors became the norm, the cost for all units reaped the benefits. How Solar Panel Lifespan Changes Cost Outlook Solar panels manufactured after 2000 only degrade at a rate of about 0.4% per year. That means after 20 years, your solar panels will still operate at 92% of their original capacity. Why does this matter? A single set of solar panels can survive for your entire tenure in the property -- and beyond. The panels will remain valuable to the next buyer, and still increase the value of your home even if they are not brand new. In the long term, this retained value ultimate cuts down on the cost of the solar panels per year. When you factor in how much you’ll save on energy costs, you’re bound to net a profit. Regular maintenance aside, your solar panels costs are extremely limited after the system is installed. Has all of this talk about solar got you curious? Maybe it’s time to get serious about turning to solar at home. Installing solar panels on your roof gives you energy independence and can set off a chain reaction in your neighborhood. It’s true: If you get solar panels, your neighbors are more likely to do the same. Contact Semper Solaris today to learn more about the costs of installing solar on your home. There’s no pressure. Let’s have a conversation about the costs of solar and how panels can fit into your lifestyle.
The decision to go solar is not one most homeowners make lightly. The switch takes a financial investment, for one, and using solar also requires a commitment to conservation. While we think solar always pays off, we understand that people have a lot of questions about what it really means to own solar panels. How much will it cost? Does it matter if you’re the only one on the block with PV panels? It’s normal to be inquisitive. Before you set up your consultation to learn more about installing solar panels for your home, take a look at these commonly asked questions about residential solar. You may find that solar panels are not as overwhelming as they sound. In fact, they will make your life a lot easier. Here is everything you need to know to get started. Is My Home a Good Fit for Solar? The first thing to ask yourself is “Is my home a good candidate for solar panels?” Most homes are, but the three main factors are: sun, location, and space. You need enough sunlight per day for the panels to do their job, a location without obstruction that faces the right direction, and adequate room on your roof for the number of watts your home requires. Google’s Project Sunroof is a good place to start. Enter your address to see how many hours of usable sunlight you get per year; the tool also provides the expected solar savings over 20 years. The ideal placement for solar panels on a home is on a southern-facing flat roof. East- and west-facing roofs can also get a lot of sun. If you can only place your panels facing north you may not be the best candidate for solar panels, or you may need to get creative to make it work. How Much Do Solar Panels Cost? The cost to power your home via solar depends a lot on the size of the property and how much electricity you use. If you have a lot of natural light and don’t use central air, you won’t need as many watts at your disposal as a home with heated floors and a hot tub. A custom estimate will give you the best idea of how many panels are ideal for your property. That being said, we can turn to the average costs of solar to get an idea of how much they will likely cost: The price per watt for PV panels ranges from $2.71 to $3.57 in 2018 Most households require at least 6,000 watts to be self-sustainable Total costs for installing PV panels average about $12,000-14,000 per home Larger homes may require extra wattage Tax credits can help keep the installation costs in check How Long Does it Take to Install Solar Panels for a Home? Choosing the right solar panels and finding an installer you trust can be time consuming. After all, you’re going to be counting on your PV panels to power your home for decades to come. By the time you have an appointment to get the panels delivered and installed, you’re ready for the process to be over! The good news is that installing solar panels for your home usually takes just one to three days, depending on the size and number of your panels. You can stick around to help the installers with any questions, or get out of the house so you don’t have to listen to people walking on the roof all day. Installers will take care of everything from roof prep to meter installation at the same time the panels are placed. What Types of Panels are Available? All solar panels operate in basically the same way: they harness the energy of the sun for use in your home. But not all panels are constructed in the exact same manner. There are three main types of solar cells to choose from, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Monocrystalline Silicon (Mono-Si): These solar panels are the most efficient. They’re constructed with high-grade silicon and are characterized by having the corners cut off of each square inside the panels. These solar cells also last the longest. Mono-si panels operate best in warm climates like Southern California, and because they’re so efficient they often cost more than other types of panels. Polycrystalline Silicon (P-Si): This type of solar cell is easier to construct; pure silicon is poured into a mold to create a perfectly square design. They are slightly less space efficient than mono-si panels, because you may require more panels to get the same amount of energy. On the plus side, they are more affordable for a lot of homeowners. P-si panels often appear blue. Thin Film (TFSC): Several thin layers of photovoltaic material are stacked to create this type of solar cell. While these panels are affordable and they are visually appealing, with consistent black square panels, they take up a lot of space. The use of TFSC is growing in residential areas, but they are still mostly used in fields for large commercial use. If you have the room, thin-film solar cells offer consistent energy in areas of shade or heat, which can be a major advantage. What are the Long-Term Benefits of Solar? Solar panels have a few key benefits. The immediate returns include a monthly savings on your utilities -- you could eliminate your electric bill altogether, and you may even be able to sell some of your solar surplus back to the local grid. The long-term benefits of going solar include: A massive financial saving over the life of a solar panel. With 1,800 usable hours of sunlight each year, you could save $14,000 or more on electrical costs over the span of 20 years. Solar increases the value of your home. In California, solar panels add a value of about $20,000 to a home. Whether you sell your property soon or in 10 years, you will make back the cost of your solar investment. The community at large benefits when one person installs solar panels to their home. That’s because solar panels are contagious. Once a single neighbor puts solar panels on the roof, more people in the area are likely to follow suit. Over years this will create an energy-independent community. How Does Weather Affect Solar Panels? Your solar panels are left exposed to the elements. You may be wondering if they will survive their first hail storm or what happens in the event of a lightning strike. The good news is that solar panels are tested and made to withstand nearly any weather event. Grounding solar panels makes it very unlikely they will be hit by lightning, and they are designed to get through high winds and hail without major damage. Many solar panels were even able to survive Superstorm Sandy in 2012. In the rare event that your solar panel is damaged by weather, your homeowner’s insurance is likely to help you cover the costs of fixing or replacing the panels. How Long Do Solar Panels Last? Like any appliance or electronic device, solar panels do have a degradation rate. This rate represents the rate at which PV panels lose their efficiency. In other words: when do they stop working? Manufacturers used to think their panels would degrade by 1% each year, meaning they would only work at 80% after 20 years. But not so fast. In fact, a solar panel made today will degrade at a rate of less than 0.4% per year. After 20 years, your solar panel will still work at 92% of its maximum efficiency. Check out this guide about how much solar panels are worth after a few years. Are solar panels right for you? If you want to save money on utilities and do good for the environment, it sounds like it’s time for a consultation. Our professional team will take a look at your property, identify potential obstructions, and give you an estimate for installing solar panels for your home. There’s no pressure, just a risk-free conversation with Semper Solaris about how solar could give you energy independence and make your home more appealing to future buyers.
As much as dogs love to feel the sun on their backs, it was only a matter of time until someone started using it to fill their stomachs. Mars Petcare has flipped the switch on a new solar garden linked to the company's San Bernardino, California manufacturing facility that produces Pedigree Brand dry dog food. Mars partnered with Ahana Renewables, a subsidiary of ATN International, Inc., to develop and fund the project under a 25-year power purchase agreement. The new solar garden features 3,420 individual solar panels that will annually deliver 1.9 million kilowatt-hours, which can power more than 50 percent of the 78,000 square foot site's daily energy needs. The four-acre solar garden is projected to yield a 549-tonne reduction of greenhouse gases. The San Bernardino site opened in 1983 and was acquired by Mars Petcare in 2006. The company currently employs 75 full-time associates at the site. Mars’ Sustainability Plan This is the third solar garden constructed by Mars in the US – joining Mars Wrigley Confectionery solar gardens in Hackettstown, New Jersey, and Henderson, Nevada. Mars also co-owns a 25,000-acre wind farm near Lamesa, Texas, featuring 118 turbines, that annually generates nearly 800,000-megawatt hours of power. As part of the Sustainable in a Generation Plan, Mars plans to reduce its total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its entire value chain by 27 percent by 2025 and 67 percent by 2050. We're happy to see these solar panels installed in the Inland Empire! "At Mars Petcare we're working towards our mission: a better world for pets, because we wholeheartedly believe they improve our lives," said Kevin Rabinovitch, global VP of sustainability at Mars, in a press release. "This new solar garden is a great example of the steps we need to take in order to achieve the ambitious goals set out in our new Sustainable in a Generation Plan to reduce the total environmental impact of Mars to ensure we foster a healthy planet for future generations – of people and pets." In conjunction with the unveiling of this new solar garden, Mars Petcare will also be making a US$20,000 charitable contribution to GRID Alternatives Inland Empire. The donation will go towards furthering the organization's mission of providing access to clean, renewable solar energy to low-income families throughout the Inland Empire area. With solar becoming a more viable option for residential and commercial applications, some companies have taken it upon themselves to become greener. With Mars Petcare taking such steps it bodes well that others will continue to take steps in the right direction by adding solar panel farms and making the manufacturing process more sustainable.
Across the United States, more and more people are starting to invest in solar power systems. They are outfitting their roofs with solar panels — and why not? Solar power technology has seen incredible advancements in recent years, many of which have helped to lower the cost of the equipment involved. Installing solar panels on your roof is also a wonderful way to generate electricity for your home and business, as well as the grid, without increasing your impact on the environment. However, there are many things that you need to consider before you jump in and start the installation process. Understanding the different factors involved in a project like this is so important — taking a look at common solar panel myths is a good idea, too. To help you decide whether or not solar power is the right option for you, your home, or your business, we’ve put together a list of the top 6 things you need to take into consideration before you install those rooftop solar panels. Does your roof need repairs? Before you even consider installing solar panels, ask yourself, how old is my roof? If you know that you will need a new roof soon, or that a part of your roof is damaged, it probably isn’t the best idea to install solar panels. If you can, take care of any Roof Installations before the installation. That way, you won’t need to pay extra to dismantle the work and then put it up again (in some cases for at least 20 years). Another aspect to consider is the warranty on your roof compared to the warranty on the solar panels. If you have solar panels that will last for 20 years and a roof that will only last between 10 – 15, it increases the cost of maintenance. Try to match both projects in terms of how long they will last in order to reduce the amount of effort, time and money you will need to invest. What is the shape of your roof? Roofs come in many different shapes and sizes. Before you go ahead with any installation, make sure that your roof has enough space for the solar panels. If there isn’t enough room, you likely will not get the return you expect on your investment. Which direction do the slopes of your roof face? Solar panels require specific placement in order to generate the maximum amount of power. Most professionals say that the best placement is to have the panels face south while others say west. Regardless, this information is important for you to determine before the installation starts. How much weight can your roof handle? Installing solar panels will increase the weight on the structure of your roof. If the weight of these solar panels is too much for your roof to handle, there is a potential that it will collapse. This is very dangerous for many reasons, not to mention costly. To avoid both situations, it is critical to have a professional evaluate your roof to determine if additional support is required to complete the installation. Where will the water go? When it rains, water runs down the roof, into the gutters and out and away from your home. When installing solar panels in Bakersfield, equipment like racking and wire harnesses can prevent the water from flowing and draining properly. In some cases, solar equipment can move the water in a different direction, which can create leaks and other problems. These problems will need repair, which means the solar panels will need to be removed. To avoid all of these issues, make sure that you inform your contractor of these concerns. They will be able to present a plan for you to prove that the installation will not impact the water runoff in any way. What about nature’s other surprises? Part of maintaining your solar power system is dealing with severe weather like lightning storms, hurricanes, hail, and more. There is a potential for some solar power equipment to get damaged during these events. While some insurance will cover these types of events, it is something to consider, especially if you live in an area where this type of weather occurs often.
