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Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Below are some of the questions we are asked most often. If you have a question that is not listed below, feel free to Contact Us at any time. I hear solar referred to by different names, like Thermal or PV.

Is there a difference? Solar Electric Systems utilize Photovoltaic referred to as PV to convert light into electricity. Able Energy specializes in Solar Electric PV design and installation as well as Solar Thermal. How big is the system? Systems vary in size, but a common residential array, or series of panels, equates to 4 KW, which is about sq.

This is slightly bigger than the footprint of an average U. How much power can I produce on my roof? As a general rule of thumb, a 4 KW system will produce about 5, kilowatt hours per year.

For a practical example, one Watt panel can produce the power equivalent to that used to run 84 compact fluorescent light bulbs for 1 hour a day.

Solar Panel Output - How Much Electricity Do They Produce?

Shading and orientation of the array will affect production. All systems are unique and each area offers a different daily solar energy availability level.

How do I know I have a good site for a solar electric installation? A fairly unobstructed view to the south is a good start. Able Energy can conduct a site survey to discover the best system design for your location, and accurately predict energy harvest for the life cycle of your PV system.

What role does panel efficiency play in energy production? Efficiency of panels as a selling point is often misleading, because efficiency plays no role in producing more power. If space is not an issue, a less efficient panel array may very well increase your return on investment.

How does the array get attached to the roof? The system is attached to the roof with industry-approved fasteners for the specific roof type.

What Solar Panel Output Can You Expect in ? | EnergySage

Each penetration by Able Energy is designed with a minimum of 2 fail-safe measures, eliminating leaks. All parts of a Solar Electric and Thermal system are UL listed and meet rigorous standards. How much does a typical system weigh?

A typical system will weigh approximately 4 to 5 pounds per square foot. Does a solar installation require maintenance? Solar, unlike wind energy, requires very little maintenance.

This is because it has no moving parts to break down from normal wear and tear. For optimum performance, some people clear their system of snow and leaves annually or as needed.

If a solar panel is rated at W, how much power will it produce? - Q&A Forum: Ask Questions or Share Expertise - EnergySage

Do I need batteries? Rather they are tied into the power grid. When the PV system is not producing electricity the grid will provide an uninterrupted power supply to your home or business.

Can I do the installation of my own system? Under some state rebate rules homeowners are unable to install the system and take advantage of the state rebates that equate to 10 to 50 percent of the system costs.

What is the payback on a solar PV system? A typical system payback is between 3 to 10 years. Many of our customers are seeing system paybacks less than 5 years. With our current financing program, in most cases, the systems are costing less per month than they would have been paying the utility company.

How much does solar panels cost? What is the latest on Solar Tax Credits and Rebates? Beyond the 30 percent Federal tax credit, rebates and incentives vary by state.

Solar Basics – kW and kWh | Lights On Solar

Able Energy can help you maximize these opportunities by filing the appropriate applications and forms. You can also find a wealth of information at dsire. What is the warranty?

The production warranty on panels is 25 years, ten years on string inverters, and ten years on labor. Does it affect my insurance rates? Upon installation of the system, the owner should contact their insurance and there may be a small increase in their annual insurance premiums. Does it affect my property tax? Historically, PV systems have had no effect on property tax.

How much does solar increase my homes value?

Does Hail damage solar panels? Solar panels are rated to withstand a direct hit of 1-inch hail at 55 mph. It is very rare for hail to damage panels. Panel replacement would be covered under most insurance policies. Do we have enough sun in our state for a solar electric system?

Germany is a world leader in Solar Electric installations and less sun than Seattle. In almost all conditions during the daylight the systems produce electricity. Solar FAQs Commonly Asked Questions About Solar.

We offer flexible options in purchasing your solar electric system. Our solar energy services are available through-out the entire states of AZ, IA, IL, LA, MN, NM, and WI. How Solar Works I hear solar referred to by different names, like Thermal or PV. Financial Benefits What is the payback on a solar PV system? What Does Solar Cost? Home Solar Business Commercial Solar States we serve. HOME SOLAR PANELS Residential Financing Home Solar Financing Home Solar Leasing Referrals Residential Referrals Partners Solar Facts Community Solar SunUp Solar.

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