Not sure if solar energy is the right choice for your home or business? This solar power FAQ page answers some of the most common questions we receive to help you make an informed decision.
Do Solar Energy Systems Work in Cold and/or Cloudy Climates?
Most people don’t realize that solar panels actually work more efficiently at lower temperatures. This is because the photovoltaic cells within the panels generate electricity from light — not heat.
As temperatures rise above normal, the components of the photovoltaic (PV) system lose their efficiency. This includes your solar panels, inverters, and wires. As a result, PV systems generally last longer when installed in cooler climates (like Pennsylvania). Photovoltaic panels do not need direct sunlight, and they can generate 50-70% of their maximum power on cloudy days.
Is Pennsylvania a Good Area for Solar?
Yes! Even though Pennsylvania has cooler average temperatures than Florida, we get around 90% as much sunshine. And while Germany is the world leader in photovoltaic installs, Pennsylvania receives almost twice as much sunshine! Plus, Pennsylvania’s local utilities offer attractive incentives for a return on investment that’s higher than many other states.
How Long Do Photovoltaic (PV) Panels Last?
While most photovoltaic modules are warranted for 25 years, they typically last indefinitely. Solar modules experience small decreases in power output over their lifetime, but this totals less than 1% per year. Best of all, no material is lost from the solar cells or module, nothing harmful is emitted, and there are no moving parts.
Does Owning a Photovoltaic System Involve Routine Maintenance?
Since there are no moving parts involved with solar panels, they require little to no maintenance. At Bright Eye Solar, we have the capability to monitor your system remotely through an easy-to-use web portal. If your output becomes too low due to weather conditions, we’ll inspect and troubleshoot your system accordingly.
If necessary, our team will clean your solar panels to bring power output back up to acceptable levels. We’ve partnered with Decks Etc. Power Washing in Lancaster and can set up an affordable annual or biannual service agreement. However, regular solar panel cleanings typically aren’t necessary.
How Much Does Bright Eye Solar Charge for a Photovoltaic System?
While Bright Eye Solar isn’t always able to deliver the lowest cost photovoltaic system, we always ensure that we’re competitively priced. We use only the most reputable, high-quality product manufacturers, and our design, engineering, and installation practices meet the highest industry standards.
The final cost for your photovoltaic system depends on several variables, including:
- System size
- System type (roof mount, ground mount, microinverters, monitoring, etc.)
- Any special engineering and/or design that may be needed
The cost of your system is usually equivalent to paying 8-10 years of electricity expenses upfront. This means a typical 8 kilowatt (kW) installation generally costs $18,000 after any state or federal incentives.
While this may sound like a lot, the 10 year ROI on your solar system is also around $18,000. And once you’ve paid off your system, you’ll never pay another cent to the electric company. Add in the amount of power you’ll sell back to them via net metering, and you’re left with an outstanding ROI.
Bright Eye Solar offers 10-, 15-, 20-, and even 25-year financing terms, and your payments are typically equal to or less than what you pay the electric company each month. To learn more about pricing, incentives, and financing, watch the video below.
What is Net Metering & How Does It Benefit Me?
Net metering allows residential and commercial solar customers to sell the electricity they don’t use back to the grid. If your solar panels overproduce, your electric meter will run backwards and provide a credit against periods when your use exceeds your system’s output. In other words, you’re only billed for your “net” energy use. Best of all, utility companies in some states (like Pennsylvania) will actually pay you for your leftover energy!
Bright Eye Solar provides solar energy installation services for homes and businesses in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey. Now that you’ve read our solar power FAQ, contact us to discuss your project with one of our expert consultants.