Solar Energy System Installation

Solar energy, also called a photovoltaic (PV) system, is supplying clean, less-expensive power to homes and businesses all across the Lone Star state. As more Texas households have the objective to cut energy costs and be gentle to the environment simultaneously, solar panel companies find the demand for their service increasing. State rebates and federal incentives make solar energy even more economically affordable, and therefore more attractive.

The reasons to consult a solar contractor for your home or business are significant as well as beneficial:

• You will use a clean, renewable energy source that reduces green house gases.
• No more worries about soaring electric rates (Think Texas heat and its bills!)
• It contributes to the local economy by creating jobs.

How does this work?

Solar contractors install solar panels to areas of a roof that gets good sun exposure. Photovoltaic (sun rays) generating electricity from the panels causes no damage to air, water, landscapes, or wildlife. Green house gases that pollute air and water are reduced significantly. In turn we help ourselves: less pollution means less allergies and respiratory ailments.

Why are PV systems on roofs?

For most Texas homeowners, rooftop installations are the easiest and most practical surface to collect and harness sun rays. Rooftops provide a ready location for PV systems and are unlikely to have competing uses. Roofs are usually slanted to shed water and snow, helping to keep PV modules unobstructed. They allow for a solar contractor’s connection to a home or businesses’ wiring circuits. Plus, higher elevation decreases obstructions that may shade the panels and block sunlight.

What about ground-mounted installations?

Texas homes and businesses with large amounts of open land may choose to install a ground-mounted PV system. The advantage of such a system is that a solar panels company can tilt it towards the direction that is ideal for catching the most sun rays. Removing snow and other debris from the PV ground-mounted unit is not difficult. However, this system is more costly, t due to the expense of the ground-based super structure the panels hang on, the potential for existing and future vegetation to cast shadows on a system, and the potential for damage or vandalism.

Does a PV installation mean that I can’t get utility power?

Some Texans who use solar contractors do so because they are not connected to the utility grid and have no other way to obtain electricity. Such “off-grid” system designs are not the norm. PV installations work in unison with the electric grid; any time the system is not meeting the complete electric needs of the household, electricity from the grid automatically makes up the difference. There are specific installation requirements for interconnecting with the grid that your solar panel company will explain.

What size system do I need?

Most Texans who use solar energy are connected to the utility power grid to meet a portion of their electricity needs. You’ll need to select a PV system that is well-sized for your particular energy use habits. Understanding your electricity usage is the initial and most important step for determining the appropriate size for your PV system. Utility bills give a good monthly and annual snapshot of how much power you use. Your solar panel company will study a copy of your recent electric bill to determine an appropriate system size. Residential PV systems range from as small as 500 watts to 10 kilowatts (10,000 watts) though 2 to 5 kilowatts (2,000 to 5,000 watts) is typical. The solar contractor should present size options to you based on your site’s characteristics, power needs, and budget. Additional solar panels can be added as your power needs increase or your budget allows if need be.