Learn why so many Americans are jumping on the solar bandwagon
Solar power has been America’s fastest-growing industry the past three years, and now has over 50 renewable energy companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange. This shows the consumer and investor confidence in solar as a product that can save consumers money but also make investors money. With an increase in efficiency, a decline in prices, and financing tools have made easily available solar is a sound investment for many Americans. What drives the American solar market? For starters, the ever increasing and exorbitant cost of energy has led consumers to find more cost-effective solutions.
Germany is the world leader in solar energy. With this being said, they are not in the best climate but the government has set a goal of 66 Gigawatts of solar capacity by 2030. In the United States, California leads the United States with the number of solar installations. Southern California is a prime place to install solar but you do not have to live in a sunny climate for solar to fare well.
Q: Does solar work well on a cloudy day?
A: Yes, even on a cloudy day your panels will still produce energy in a more efficient manner. Electricity and heat do not work well together – electricity actually works better on cooler days and allows the panels to be more efficient.
Q: Should I wait until more efficient solar panels are made to go solar?
A: No because by the time you wait for solar technology to increase, you could have paid off your solar power system. Solar typically increases one percent in efficiency rating, which is minimal and will not completely outdate your system if you install it now as opposed to say three to five years from now.
Q: I want to be independent from the grid - is this possible?
A: When you go solar you become a “net metered” client with the utility which is great for homeowners. During the day your solar power system typically overproduces and you accumulate credits with the utility, and I night you use those credits so you’re not charged for using electricity when your solar power system isn’t producing. With net-metering, rather than paying a monthly bill as you do now, you will “true up” with the utility at the end of a one year billing cycle. So, in fact you are still connected to the grid after going solar.
Q: Solar panels require maintenance, but what exactly will I need to do?
A: Solar panels are quite resilient, so all you will need to wash of your panels with water four times a year. You do not need to use any cleaning product only water from your hose. Solar panels are able to withstand hail, 125 mile per hour winds and can even wash away dust with rain.
Solar is a great investment for residents, allowing homeowners to increase their property value while saving money by eliminating their electric bills. Mission Viejo residents have the opportunity to take part in city’s renewable energy portfolio by taking part in the Mission Viejo Solar Program.
The program is administered by Sullivan Solar Power, and offers residents the opportunity to get paid to get solar. Through this program residents are able to go solar for no upfront cost and receive up to $2,000 cash back. The three-month initiative will come to a close on June 3, 2013.
The program will close on Monday, June 3, 2013 at 5:00 p.m. Homeowners who want to participate in the Mission Viejo Solar Program are encouraged to visit MissionViejoSolarProgram.org or to call 1.800.SULLIVAN (1-800-785-5482).
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
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