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As a new homeowner, you have several important decisions to make, including those regarding energy efficiency. Solar panels are among the best products for increasing efficiency because they provide a relatively free source of energy once they’re installed. Here’s a helpful list of frequently asked questions if you’re considering this energy option for your home.

FAQs About Home Solar Power

How Do They Work?

The panels feature photovoltaic cells that create electricity from sunlight. These cells generate electric fields by letting particles of light, or photons, remove electrons from atoms. Metal conductive plates on the cells’ sides acquire loose electrons and transfer them to wires, resulting in flowing electricity that operates similarly to any other electrical system.

Will I Still Have an Electric Bill?

solarUnless your home fully relies on solar power and includes a battery storage unit, you will still get monthly electric bills. However, the payment will be significantly lower compared to what you’d pay without solar power. These panels can save you money via federal government rebates and incentives, such as a 30% federal investment tax credit.

Do the Panels Work at Night?

The panels need sunlight to operate, and while they still work on cloudy days, you need net metering at night to avoid evening blackouts. Net metering utilizes power from the electric grid that everyone in your area shares. When your panels produce more energy than needed, it ends up in a grid that you can draw from at night. Battery backups also help, especially if you live in a less-populated area.

Is It Possible to Go off the Grid?

You can get off the grid with solar energy systems only if you have extensive battery storage available. Since this is an additional expense, many homeowners forgo it in favor of using the grid whenever they need it.
 

If you’re considering this renewable energy for your home, contact the team at Solar Help Hawaii in Honolulu. This local company provides homeowners throughout Oahu with solar energy systems that will reduce your carbon footprint, including photovoltaic panels, attic fans, and pool pumps. Call (808) 548-4357 to learn about their referral incentive program, or send a message online to schedule an appointment.

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