Solar Panel System FAQ
Find the answers to some common questions about solar panel systems.
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How Does Solar Power Work?
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, convert sunlight into electricity. They consist of photovoltaic cells, which are made of semiconductor materials such as silicon. When sunlight strikes the solar panel, it causes the electrons in the semiconductor material to become excited, creating a flow of electricity.
Each solar panel is made up of many photovoltaic cells, which are connected together in a circuit to create a larger electric current. The cells are arranged in a grid pattern on the front of the panel and are sandwiched between layers of glass and a protective back sheet. The electricity generated by the cells flows through the circuit and into an inverter, which converts it from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity used in most homes and buildings.
Solar panels are connected in arrays and are usually installed on rooftops or in ground-mounted systems. They can be connected to the power grid, allowing excess electricity to be sent back to the utility company, or they can be used in off-grid systems, which require battery storage to provide power when sunlight is not available.
The efficiency of solar panels can vary depending on the specific technology and materials used, but most solar panels on the market today have an efficiency of around 15-20%. This means that they can convert 15-20% of the sunlight that strikes them into usable electricity. It is important to note that solar panels do not produce electricity during nighttime and also on cloudy days, so other sources of energy should be considered to complement their use.
What Are The Benefits of Converting Your Home To Solar?
- Lower electricity bills: One of the most significant benefits of installing solar panels on your home is the potential to save money on your electricity bills. Once your solar panels are installed, you’ll be generating your own electricity, which means you’ll need to rely less on your utility company to provide power to your home.
- Environmentally friendly: Solar energy is a renewable and clean source of energy, which means that it doesn’t produce harmful emissions or contribute to climate change. By installing solar panels, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint and helping to create a more sustainable future.
- Increased property value: Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home. According to a study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, homes with solar panels installed sold for an average of 4.1% more than homes without solar.
- Energy independence: By generating your own electricity with solar panels, you’ll become less reliant on your utility company and the grid. This can provide peace of mind during power outages or times of high demand when the grid may be overloaded.
- Government incentives: Many governments offer incentives and tax credits to homeowners who install solar panels. These incentives can help offset the upfront costs of installing solar and make it a more affordable option for homeowners.
- Low maintenance: Solar panels require very little maintenance, as they have no moving parts and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. This means you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without having to worry about costly repairs or replacements.
What Are My Payment Options For Solar Energy System?
- Cash Pay Savings
- Financing Through A Third-Party Company
- Home Equity Financing
- FHA 203(k) loan
Can I get Tax Credits For Going Solar?
Yes! The investment tax credit (ITC), also known as the federal solar tax credit, allows you to deduct 30 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes.
Does Nevada have a solar tax credit?
Although Nevada doesn?t have its own solar tax credit, you can still qualify for the Federal Solar Tax Credit when you live in Las Vegas. And when you live in Nevada and go solar, you are also eligible for other great incentives such as net metering and solar rebates through your utility company.
What is the net metering policy for NV Energy?
Net metering allows customers to use energy generated by their leased or purchased solar system to offset their monthly power bill. If a customer?s solar system produces more energy in a billing period than used, the excess energy will be pushed back onto the grid and used by other electricity customers. Customers earn credits for the excess energy. The credits are recorded on customers? electric bills. The credits will be automatically applied in the next billing period in which a customer consumes more energy than produced.
Find out more about the rules for net metering with NV Energy. Rebates gives you money back once you go solar, but with net metering, you get?monthly credits?for the excess energy you produce!
Will Solar Panels Increase My Home Value?
Yes, on average, homes with solar panels in Nevada have been shown to sell for up to 4% more than similar homes without solar panels.