Thinking about solar for your home or business? Our team of experts is here to help answer any questions you have. Check out this list of the most commonly asked inquiries - and don't hesitate to reach out with others! Contact our advisors today and take one step closer towards embracing renewable energy in your life.

Solar FAQs

Why Should I go Solar?

What are the financial benefits of going solar?

The financial benefits of solar energy are numerous and can be significant. The most obvious benefit is the cost savings on your electricity bills. Depending on your location, the amount of sunlight you get each day, and the size of the solar energy system you install, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year by going solar. In addition to saving money on your electricity bills, you may also be eligible for state and federal tax credits when you install a solar energy system.

In many states, utilities must provide net metering, which means that if your system produces more power than you use in a given month, the excess electricity is sent back to the grid for credit. This credit can then be applied to future electricity bills, further reducing your costs. On top of all this savings, installing a residential solar energy system increases the value of your home, making it a sound investment for anyone looking to make their property more valuable.

Finally, with rising utility rates and an uncertain future for fossil fuels, investing in renewable energy offers some degree of protection against long-term rate hikes that can come with traditional sources of power. With all these advantages combined (cost savings from lower utility bills; potential tax credits; net metering; increased property value; and protection against rising energy costs), it’s clear why so many people are turning to renewable energy as an economically sound choice in today’s world.

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What are the environmental benefits of solar energy?

The environmental benefits of solar energy are numerous. Solar energy is a clean, renewable energy source that does not produce emissions during the production or use of electricity. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are one of the leading causes of climate change. Solar power also eliminates pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and particulate matter from entering the atmosphere and contributing to air pollution. Research has shown that solar panels can help decrease smog levels and improve air quality in urban areas. Additionally, solar panels require no water for their operation unlike other traditional forms of electricity generation, resulting in significant water conservation for regions with limited resources.

Solar energy is also a great way to diversify our energy sources and provide greater stability for both local and global markets. By adding more solar energy to the mix, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and nuclear sources, which are often subject to wide price fluctuations due to political instability or natural disasters. This helps protect communities from unpredictable cost spikes while promoting greater economic security in their region. Finally, by investing in solar energy projects, we are helping spur job creation within the industry while providing a clean alternative to traditional forms of electricity generation.

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How do I find how much I pay for electricity?

If you're looking to find out how much you pay for electricity each month, the easiest way to do so is by reviewing your utility electricity bill. Your utility electricity bill will include a breakdown of your monthly usage and charges, which will help you determine the amount of money you spend on electricity each month. You'll find that it includes sections such as the total cost for electricity, how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy you used during the month, and what portion of those kWh went towards various types of services. By examining these details in your bill, you can get an accurate picture of how much money you are paying for electricity each month.

Apex representatives are knowledgeable and experienced in helping customers get the best price for their electricity. They can explain any applicable taxes or fees associated with the service and provide guidance on how to budget for electricity consumption. Ultimately, Our goal is to ensure customers get a fair price for their power consumption while still staying within their budget constraints. With their expertise in helping customers make sense of energy costs and bills, an Apex representative is the perfect person to reach out to if you want to find out how much you pay for electricity each month.

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What is net metering?

Net metering is a billing system that allows homeowners and businesses with solar energy systems to receive credit for the power their panels produce. It helps to level off the cost of electricity throughout the month and often results in lower utility bills.

Net metering works by measuring how much electricity your solar system produces in one month, compared to how much electricity you use from the grid. Any excess or “net” energy produced is credited back on your utility bill, either each month or at year end. The same amount of excess energy will be used to offset any energy deficits during months when your system doesn’t generate enough power. This helps you avoid paying a higher rate for electricity bought from the utility company.

Net metering also promotes renewable energy by rewarding people who invest in solar energy systems, which helps reduce emissions and reliance on non-renewable sources of energy. For this reason, many states provide incentives such as tax credits and extra savings for those who install solar electricity systems on their home or business premises.

The concept of net metering has been around since 1982, when it was first introduced in California. Since then it has been adopted by 43 US states as well as numerous other countries around the world including Canada, India, Brazil and Japan. Net metering is an essential part of making solar more accessible and economically viable for everyone while helping reduce carbon emissions and protect our planet's resources at the same time!

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How Does solar impact my property values?

Studies have shown that installing solar energy systems on a home can significantly increase property value. In fact, based on various studies, adding solar panels to your home can increase the sale price by an average of 4.1%. This is more than the typical return of a kitchen renovation (2-3%), and it’s also higher than returns from other common renovations like bathrooms or siding. Depending on the region, solar panels may add even more value; for example, homes in California with solar installations typically sell for over $17,000 more than those without.

However, it’s important to note that your property value will only increase if you own your solar panel system rather than lease it. The best way to maximize your property value when going solar is to ensure that you own the system so as to take advantage of all the financial benefits associated with doing so. Additionally, installing high-quality components and utilizing an experienced installer can ensure that your system will continue to offer benefits into the future and give potential buyers even more reasons to choose your home over others without solar.

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How do solar panels work for my home?

How do solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work by converting the sun's energy into usable electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. When light particles, known as photons, hit certain materials (in this case, PV cells) they transfer their energy over to electrons in the material. This causes a flow of electric current within the panel, creating direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity is then passed through an inverter which converts it to alternating current (AC) electricity, making it suitable for most homes and businesses.

The efficiency of these panels depends on the type and quality of cell used in them—higher-grade cells are able to capture more of the sun’s energy and therefore create more electricity. Additionally, when temperatures get too high or too low outside, PV cell efficiency can be affected; areas with extreme temperature fluctuations may not make for ideal solar panel environments. Solar panels also need to be positioned in a spot that will receive as much sunlight as possible throughout the day.

In most solar PV systems, multiple panels are wired together into what is known as an array. Arrays come in all shapes and sizes depending on what you need them for; typically they consist of anywhere from two to hundreds of individual panels connected together. By wiring these arrays together, they can produce enough power to meet your specific needs. Some even have batteries attached so any excess energy produced during peak hours can be stored for future use.

Overall, when properly installed and maintained, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels can provide clean, renewable energy for years to come!

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Do my solar panels produce power when the sun isn’t shining?

No, your solar panels will not produce power when the sun isn't shining. This means at night, you won't be generating any electricity with your system. Solar energy systems rely on direct sunlight for the optimal production of electricity. When the sky is dark outside, sunlight doesn't reach your system and therefore no energy is generated. On days when clouds are heavy or the weather is bad, you may notice lower levels of efficiency from your panels. However, even in cities with more cloudy conditions than sunny ones, many people still find that investing in solar energy makes sense financially due to high electricity costs and certain financial incentives offered by governments and utilities. For example, some governments offer tax credits for solar installations which can significantly reduce the cost of switching to renewable energy sources such as solar. Additionally, installing a PV system will allow you to save money over time by producing your own electricity rather than relying on more expensive utility companies.

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Can I go off-grid with solar panels?

Yes, it is possible to go off-grid with solar panels. However, doing so can be significantly more expensive than simply installing solar panels and remaining connected to the grid. If you choose to go completely off-grid, then your solar energy system must include battery storage that would allow you to store excess electricity generated during sunny periods for use when the sun is not shining. This will provide backup power when the solar system cannot generate enough power on its own. Additionally, some type of generator may be required in order to meet demand during peak consumption periods.

The cost of these additional components should be carefully considered before making a decision about going off-grid as they can add up quickly. Additionally, many homeowners find that being connected to the grid provides them with increased security and reliability since they have access to a consistent source of electricity and don’t need to worry about running out of power or having their batteries fail in an emergency situation. Ultimately, whether or not it makes sense for you to go off-grid depends on your budget, energy needs, and preference for security and reliability.

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Will I still receive an electric bill if I have solar panels?

When your energy needs exceed what your solar system can produce, then the remainder will come from the utility company. By carefully considering factors such as size and battery storage capacity when designing a system, you may even be able to get credits from your utility company!

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Do solar panels work in a blackout?

Do solar panels work in a blackout? The short answer is it depends. Generally speaking, if a solar panel system is connected to the grid, it will shut off when the power goes out in order to protect any workers attempting to fix or repair the electrical lines. However, there are certain inverters and batteries that can be paired together that can provide backup power in a blackout, so some systems are able to continue functioning even without power from the grid. It's important for people considering solar panels for their homes to research their options and determine what would best suit their needs if blackouts are common in their area.

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How much will solar panel maintenance cost?

Solar panel systems are built to last – their tempered glass construction and little-to-no maintenance requirements guarantee up to 35 years of continuous power generation. In the unlikely event that cells need repair, most equipment manufacturers offer warranties for peace of mind.

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Am I ready for solar?

Can I afford to go solar?

The answer to the question, "Can I afford to go solar?" is a resounding "Yes!" Thanks to affordable financing options, including both solar loans and solar leases, even those with limited budgets can take advantage of the numerous benefits that come with going solar. By investing in a solar energy system, you could start saving on your electricity bills right away.

Solar panel systems are becoming more and more cost-effective, as advances in technology have drastically reduced the prices associated with purchasing, installing and maintaining them. In addition, many states offer tax credits or other incentives for homeowners who invest in clean energy solutions like going solar. Depending on where you live, you may also be eligible for additional rebates from local utility companies which can help you recoup some of the cost of going solar.

If you're considering making the switch to renewable energy and are wondering if you can afford it, visit https://apexenergygroupca.com/schedule-appointment for a free consultation. With our help, you'll be able to determine whether or not they make financial sense in your individual situation. Moreover, we'll also help identify additional programs available in your area that may lower your upfront costs even further.

Going solar is a great way to save money on your monthly utility bills and reduce your environmental footprint all at once - so there's no reason why you shouldn't check into it today!

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Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

Is your roof suitable for solar panels? That depends - many factors must be considered in order to determine the best placement of solar panels. Generally, southerly-facing roofs with minimal shade and enough space for the system are ideal. However, there may be workarounds even if your home doesn't have an ideal solar roof.

When determining whether your roof is suitable for a solar system, you'll want to consider factors such as the site's angle, orientation, and shading from other nearby structures or trees. The size and shape of your roof will also impact panel placement; some roofs may only accommodate one panel while others could fit multiple. Additionally, it’s important to look into any potential restrictions from local building or homeowners associations that could limit installation options or require additional paperwork. Lastly, you should consider the type of solar panels you plan on using — different types of modules come in various sizes that may affect installation considerations.

To get a better understanding of your rooftop's suitability for solar energy systems and available options for installation, register your property on Apex Energy to receive customized advice based on images of your actual roof. With this information, you'll be able to make a more informed decision about whether or not installing solar is the right choice for you—and if so—which configuration is best suited for your needs.

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 What size solar energy system should I get?

To determine if your roof is suitable for solar panels, you'll need to consider several factors, such as the amount of sunlight that reaches the roof and whether or not it can hold the weight of a panel array. You should also inspect your roof for any potential damage, as well as its orientation in relation to the sun’s path. Before installing solar panels, you should make sure that your roof is free from any obstructions like trees and tall buildings. Additionally, you should check that the slopes on your roof are appropriate for mounting solar panels. Usually, roofs with a pitch between 12 and 45 degrees are considered ideal for solar installations. Finally, ensure that there is adequate space on your rooftop for an array of photovoltaic (PV) panels and other equipment associated with it. Your home’s current energy consumption will play an important role when sizing up how many PV panels you need to install on your roof. Once all these elements have been taken into consideration, you’ll be able to determine if your roof is suitable for a solar energy system installation.

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Do I need to replace my roof before installing solar?

Investing in a solar energy system is an important and long-term decision. To maximize its potential, you may need to take into consideration the condition of your roof; if maintenance or replacement might be necessary during the 25-35 year lifespan of your system, it's best that you get those jobs completed before installing solar panels with help from Apex's pre-screened installers who can advise on whether any such work should start ahead of going green!

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How long will my solar power system last?

Your solar power system can be expected to last for approximately 38 to 47.5 years, depending on the specific components used and how well maintained the system is. The panels themselves are usually made from durable materials that are designed to withstand normal environmental conditions, such as snow, wind, and hail; however, other components like inverters, batteries, mounting systems and wiring may need to be replaced over time. Regular maintenance will also help extend the life of your system by ensuring it functions optimally over its lifetime. Furthermore, advances in technology are continually making solar panels more efficient and longer-lasting than ever before, offering homeowners greater peace of mind about their investment in a solar power system.

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What happens if I sell my solar house?

If you are selling your solar house, what happens to the solar energy system will ultimately depend on whether you own it or lease it. If you have owned your system, the new homebuyers get the benefit of a reduced electricity bill and increased property value. Studies have shown that houses with solar panels installed can sell for up to 4-6% more than comparable homes without them. It's important to note that those who own their systems may be able to transfer any unclaimed tax credits or rebates associated with the system to their buyers.

On the other hand, if you are leasing your solar energy system when you sell your home, it is not as straightforward. In this case, you will need to either buy out your lease before selling the home, or work with your leasing company to transfer the lease agreement over to the new owner. Leasing companies may require that all of the terms of the original contract be maintained by the new owners, including any monthly payments and maintenance fees. It’s important for homebuyers who are considering a leased solar energy system to weigh these additional costs into their budget before proceeding with purchasing a home with a leased system in place.

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(559) 403-6528

apexenergygroupca@gmail.com

(559) 403-6528