Solar Basics

Understand the basics of solar to assess home suitability and make informed choices.
Avg Annual Peak Sun Hours
Step 1: Identify your property's Peak Sun Hours here, and browse our guides for the next steps.
Peak Sun Hours Map of US
Dive Deeper at NREL

Featured Articles

Sunbathing 101- Solar Panel Placement

Sunbathing 101- Solar Panel Placement

Qualifying your home for solar panel installation is like planning the perfect day of sunbathing. Both tasks require a keen understanding of the sun's position and the optimal times to catch its rays.

How Fruitful can Net Metering be?

How Fruitful can Net Metering be?

Net metering can be a fruitful endeavor, much like owning a tree that produces a bountiful harvest. It allows you to offset the cost of the power you draw from the grid, reducing your monthly electricity bills.

Devising Your Solar Offset Strategy

Devising Your Solar Offset Strategy

Stepping into the realm of solar energy with a well-crafted offset strategy allows you to gradually transition to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Consider Solar Energy for My Home?

Solar energy offers a sustainable way to power your home while also being a financially smart investment. With the 30% Solar Tax Credit, the initial costs are more manageable, making it an attractive option for homeowners.

How Much Can I Save with Solar Energy?

The average ROI for solar installations is around $1,000 a year. Your savings can vary based on factors like local solar incentives, the quality of your solar installation deal, and whether you have a home energy storage system. Be cautious when choosing a solar provider, as not all offer equally good deals.

Can I Store Solar Energy for Later Use?

Yes, you can store solar energy for later use, thanks to modern battery technologies that have become more efficient and affordable, partly due to the Inflation Reduction Act. These home energy storage systems enable you to use stored electricity during nighttime, cloudy days, or peak hours if you're subject to time-variable pricing.

What Is Net Metering?

Net metering is a billing arrangement that allows you to sell excess electricity generated by your solar panels back to the grid. This can significantly enhance the financial benefits of your solar installation. However, net-metering policies can vary by location, so it's important to understand your local regulations for maximum benefit.

Is My Home Suitable for Solar Panel Installation?

Determining if your home is suitable for solar panels involves several factors. These include the direction your roof faces, the amount of shading, and local weather conditions. A south-facing roof with minimal shading is often ideal. However, these are just starting points. You'll have to research and develop a solar offset strategy to fully determine.