Even though the list of benefits and popularity of solar energy increases regularly, it’s natural to have many questions about it as a business or homeowner. We are here to answer these questions below, and if you have others, we’re happy to help answer them, so give us a call at (615) 933-8120 to learn more.
Solar energy systems convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels. When sunlight hits the panels, it generates direct current (DC) electricity. This DC power is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter, making it compatible with standard electrical systems used in homes, businesses, and farms. The generated electricity can be used immediately, stored in batteries, or sent back to the grid, depending on your setup.
Solar panels can reduce electricity costs by generating power on-site, lowering the amount of energy needed from the utility grid. Solar installations can also qualify for various financial incentives, such as tax credits and grants, which can offset initial installation costs. For commercial and agricultural operations, solar energy can provide a predictable energy supply and reduce dependence on external energy providers.
The savings from solar energy depend on several factors, including the size of the system, current energy consumption, local electricity rates, and available sunlight. Residential systems typically lead to noticeable reductions in monthly energy bills. Commercial and agricultural customers may see larger savings due to higher energy demands and access to additional incentives and depreciation benefits that are available for business entities.
Several incentives exist for solar installations, including the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows a percentage of the system cost to be credited against your federal taxes. Additionally, commercial customers may benefit from accelerated depreciation under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), and agricultural businesses may qualify for the USDA REAP grants. Various state and local incentives may also be available depending on your location.
The installation timeline varies based on the type of property and system size. For residential properties, once permits are obtained, the installation itself usually takes 1-3 days. Commercial and agricultural systems are more complex and can take several weeks to complete, including stages such as site assessment, design, permitting, and actual installation. Timelines can vary due to weather, permitting processes, and the specifics of the project.
Solar panels produce electricity when exposed to sunlight and are most efficient on clear, sunny days. On cloudy or overcast days, power generation is reduced but not eliminated. At night, solar panels do not generate electricity. Battery storage systems can be incorporated to store excess energy generated during the day for use during non-productive periods, ensuring a continuous power supply even when the panels are not actively producing energy.
Manufacturers often provide performance warranties that cover 20-25 years, ensuring that the panels will continue to operate at a specified efficiency level during that period. Proper maintenance, including periodic inspections and cleaning, can help maximize the performance and longevity of the system.
Solar panel suitability depends on various factors, including roof orientation, available space, shading, and roof condition. A professional assessment is usually required to determine the feasibility of solar installation. Ground-mounted systems are an option for properties with limited roof space or where optimal sunlight exposure cannot be achieved on the roof. The assessment will include an evaluation of structural integrity and any potential obstructions.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.
Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.