Installing solar panels is an excellent way to harness sunlight and create enough energy to power your property and reduce your electric bills. While the initial investment can set you back, their cost-effectiveness and efficiency are an asset to homeowners in the long run. Here is a guide to going solar.

All About Solar Panels

1. How do they work?

Solar panels are made up of connected photovoltaic — PV — or solar cells, which absorb and convert sunlight into direct current — DC — electricity. Since properties run on alternating current — AC — electricity, the DC power is then transformed into usable AC power through an inverter. The electricity produced can be used or sent back to the electric grid as an additional power supply.

2. What happens when it’s cloudy, raining, or snowing?

Solar panels still work under indirect sunlight, but not as efficiently as when the sun is unobstructed. It will produce less energy during cloudy or rainy weather and becomes dormant during heavy snowfalls and at night. And, if your area has a net metering policy, you may offset energy use at times when your system isn’t operating at full capacity, like at night.

3. Do solar panels work in power outages?

If your system is connected to the power grid, you will be affected by a blackout as well. This is a safety mechanism that prevents emergency responders and repair technician from being harmed by electricity coming from your system. There are certain inverters, however, that can provide backup power.

4. Are there incentives for solar energy?

Depending on where you live, solar rebates and incentives tend to vary. There is a 30% federal investment tax credit — ITC — that allows you to deduct nearly a third of the system’s cost from your taxes. Apart from this, other states, counties, and utilities offer varied local rebates and incentives.

Zelek Electric Co. in New London County, CT, is a leading solar panel contractor within the area with numerous solar installations to its credit. With over 42 years of experience, they have also provided exceptional generator repair and electrical services to businesses and residents alike. To schedule an appointment, call (860) 434-9726 or send them a message online for details.