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Solar FAQ

How does a solar PV system work?
A photovoltaic (PV) system is a set of panels made of semiconductor material (silicon) that captures sunlight and converts it into a direct electric current (DC) and then transmits that current to an inverter which turns the current into an alternating current (AC) that can be used in your home.

How much does a solar energy system cost to install?
Your system price is typically based on your electrical energy usage. Each home is different, and the amount of electricity you use is very dependent upon your lifestyle, how your home was built, and your appliances. During your site visit, we will help you identify how much electricity you use and tailor a system that makes sense for your particular needs.

Do my solar panels have to face South?
South-facing panels are ideal but not necessary. Panels facing East or West will still produce a significant amount of power.

Will solar work in a foggy or cloudy climate?
Solar power production on cloudy days is only slightly less than on sunny days.  In fact, the optimal weather for solar is a partly cloudy day, because reflected radiation from sunlight bouncing off clouds can increase the amount of electromagnetic energy that eventually hits your panels.

What is Net Metering?
Net  Metering  allows  you  to  send  any  power  that  you  are  not  currently  using  back  into  the  grid, physically  turning  your  meter  backwards  so  you  get  credit  for  every  kilowatt  hour  (kWh)  generated  by your  system.  Exact  provisions  vary  with  each  state,  but  the  effect  is  to  allow  you  to  generate  excess power  during  the  day,  and  use  it  at  night.  Because  of  the  Net  Metering  Law  (NEM)  law  in  California,  you  are  allowed  to  “sell”  clean  solar  generated  electricity  to  the  utility  at  the  same  price  at  which  it  was purchased.

What is the Green Planet Solar Lease?
The Green Planet Solar lease is smart lease financing for solar power.  Instead of buying a solar system, you can now pay zero money down and a low monthly payment to lease a system from GPS.  Best of all—the combined cost of your lease payment plus the cost of your new electricity bill is likely to be less than the cost of your old electricity bill.

 

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