solar pv display screens free sample

Solarfox supports an ever-growing list of the world’s most popular brands of pv systems and pv monitoring tools. To see if your plant is included, please search for it in our list of supported interfaces

With the purchase of a Solarfox(c) Display, everything needed to get your PV-plant ready and presented for your clientele and passersby are included from its initial purchase. We also offer additional premium content for your slideshows and Solarfox(c) account with one time purchases.

The exceptions to this include datasource connections to certain PV-Suppliers and our Webpublic Package. To see if your plant requires a subscription fee, please check here.

Installation typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour if the Display needs to be wall-mounted. Setting up the display requires an internet connection and a USB keyboard to complete the setup.

As of right now, there are no plans to offer our software solutions stand-alone. Due to its current implementation, a Solarfox Display is required for the running of all functions on our Online Management Portal.

Once your plant can be found on the PV-Supplier’s online portal, it should be sufficient enough to make a connection, but it may be necessary to perform additional steps to acquire an access key to your PV-system’s online portal. Please contact us to see if your connection requires additional steps.

Solarfox supports an ever-growing list of the world’s most popular brands of pv systems and pv monitoring tools. To see if your plant is included, please search for it in our list of supported interfaces

With the purchase of a Solarfox(c) Display, everything needed to get your PV-plant ready and presented for your clientele and passersby are included from its initial purchase. We also offer additional premium content for your slideshows and Solarfox(c) account with one time purchases.

The exceptions to this include datasource connections to certain PV-Suppliers and our Webpublic Package. To see if your plant requires a subscription fee, please check here.

Installation typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour if the Display needs to be wall-mounted. Setting up the display requires an internet connection and a USB keyboard to complete the setup.

As of right now, there are no plans to offer our software solutions stand-alone. Due to its current implementation, a Solarfox Display is required for the running of all functions on our Online Management Portal.

Once your plant can be found on the PV-Supplier’s online portal, it should be sufficient enough to make a connection, but it may be necessary to perform additional steps to acquire an access key to your PV-system’s online portal. Please contact us to see if your connection requires additional steps.

In the move to ensure environmental sustainability and minimize energy costs, most of the world’s populace has invested in top-of-the-line free solar panel sample.  Whatever the design and style of free solar panel sample, Alibaba.com stocks a stunning inventory of highly efficient, durable, and reliable options. These incredible and highly efficient solar cells on sale are super-efficient and durable, and are sourced from world-leading manufacturers and suppliers.

For superior performance and high efficiency combined with incredible aesthetics, consider monocrystalline free solar panel sample that come at a higher price. For more portable and flexible solutions that combine aesthetics and lightweight design, consider polycrystalline or thin-film cells. Discover the finest quality and reliable panels that run on photovoltaic, monocrystalline silicon or polycrystalline silicon cells, engineered to deliver consistent durability and superior performance.

The extensive range of free solar panel sample sold on Alibaba.com come in an impressive range of wattage ratings, shapes and sizes, which have a direct impact on performance and output. Find superior high-end panels with wattage capacities of up to 300 capable of delivering superior outputs in commercial and residential settings. Discover the biggest choice of panels available as glass-free, PERC, BIPV, and flexible options, most of which have long-standing lifespans of roughly 25 years.

Discover the most competitive free solar panel sample on Alibaba.com and save money on lighting and powering residential and commercial settings. Most of these panels on sale are RoHS, ISO, and CE certified, which ensures optimal authenticity and reliability. Order from trusted and well-known suppliers who source their products from industry-leading brands and manufacturers.

Custom Solar Screens for windows are perfect for you if you want custom solar screens with frames that are mounted on the outside of your windows. They can be removed in the winter time if desired, but most people leave them up all year round (to avoid sun damage to interior furnishings).

The solar screens are fully assembled and they are easy to install on your home. They come custom cut to your exact specifications to ensure a perfect fit and professional look.

Most Popular! Solar Screen Kits are perfect for you if you want custom solar screens with frames that are mounted on the outside of your windows. They can be removed in the winter time if desired, but most people leave them up all year round (to avoid sun damage to interior furnishings).

The solar screens are easy to assemble and install on your home. They come custom cut to your exact specifications to ensure a perfect fit and professional look. This is our most popular product.

Roll Up Solar Shades are the indoor/outdoor solution to blocking the sun"s harmful rays during certain times of the day. Our shades come with a stainless steel chain so you can manually raise and lower the shade with ease.

Our Bulk Solar Screen Fabric is just what you need to tackle those large solar screen projects. If you"re covering a pergola or screening in a porch, we"ve got you covered (get it?).

Need some additional mounting hardware, clips, corners or spline? We"ve got it here for you at Solar Screen Outlet. You can even order full length frame pieces and build your own solar screens from scratch.

All the accessories you"ll find on our website are compatible with the frames and fabric we sell. We even have a fabulous spline roller tool (you might actually find it enjoyable to build your own solar screen).

Who doesn"t like free stuff? If you"re not sure about the exact color of the solar screen fabric available, you can order free fabric samples from us. You can also pay just a few bucks (including shipping) to get a more robust sample kit that includes fabric, frames and hardware.

The 90% solar screens have a tighter weave (ie smaller holes) than the 80% solar screens. This tighter weave blocks more of the harmful UV rays that heat up your home and damage your drapes and other furnishings.

The 90% solar screens have slightly less visibility (from inside to outside), but you can still see through them fine. Most of our customers prefer the 90% solar screens for their windows and other applications.

If your main concern is blocking the heat, you should choose 90% solar screens. If you want to block a lot of heat, but you have a beautiful view outside that you"d like to preserve, choose 80% solar screens. The 90% screens will darken the room a bit more than the 80% screens will.

All these features enable integrators, installers, maintenance staff, and system owners to improve the site performance, assure the yield of the system, maximize solar power harvesting and reduce maintenance costs by increasing system up-time and resolving faults more effectively.

Since solar panels are static, there’s little to actually, well, see when they’re generating. Sure, it’s nice to start receiving smaller energy bills but, if you’re like most of our customers, you’ll want to dig into the performance data every now and then.

As well as checking when the most solar power is being generated (a useful reminder to turn on the dishwasher and make the most of that free electricity), solar monitoring is great for reviewing past output and comparing performance. Sudden drops can indicate faults that need fixing, or help assess if it’s worth giving the panels a clean.

All the solar PV systems we install come with accessible online monitoring. Most of the time, this data comes from the system"s inverter. As standard, this monitoring includes:

Note that you can also read solar production from the generation meter (which is the most accurate source), while online portals are based on inverter calculations.

Many manufacturers also offer access to your system’s data via an API, which may be useful if you want to custom-code displays or integrate solar with a smart home.

Thank you for choosing [Sender.Company] to provide the installation of your residential solar energy system. [Sender.Company] is a solar brand authorized installer, and we have helped more than number homeowners harness solar energy to power their homes.

As the cost per Kw/h of energy from municipal power grids continues to rise each year, many homeowners are seeking long-term alternatives to reduce their energy bills. Solar energy is a great alternative to drawing power from the electric grid, and saves homeowners substantially in the long run while also benefiting the environment.

In this proposal, I’ve included details regarding the expected impact that a solar brand system will have on your grid energy use and overall household energy costs. You’ll also find information showing when you’re projected to “break even” on the system given your current and projected energy use, and what your savings beyond that point will be.

EmailMany homeowners are concerned about the curb appeal of solar panels. Include pictures in your proposal to show that today’s panels are just as beautiful as they are effective.

MID must approve projects prior to an interconnection. Please review the solar handbook and solar electric service rules for all program requirements.

NOTE:Qualifying PV systems must have a minimum peak capacity of at least 1,000 watts (1 kW) and all systems must be customer owned. Programs are applicable for existing MID residential, commercial and agricultural electric accounts. These programs are not applicable to new construction.

If you’ve been shopping around for a solar panel system, you’ve probably heard at least one company advertise ‘free solar panels,’ implying that they’ll install a solar energy system on your roof for free. But, much as with anything, remember that there’s no such thing as a free lunch – and there’s no such thing as free solar panels.

You’ll save more money overall by choosing a $0-down solar loan over a solar lease or PPA because you’ll be the one to receive any federal, state, or local incentives.

While you can’t get free solar panels, you can get free solar quotes – visit the EnergySage Marketplace to compare custom quotes from local installers.

Decoding the sales pitch: the terms ‘free solar panels’ or ‘no cost solar program’ are sometimes used to advertise solar lease or solar power purchase agreements (PPAs). Under both types of arrangements, a company will put solar panels on your roof for no money up-front but will charge you for the electricity that they produce. Most offers will save you money on energy bills but not all of them, so make sure you’ve thoroughly compared all your options. Also consider buying the solar panels or financing them with a zero-down solar loan.

So what do a company’s marketers and salespeople mean when they say ‘free solar panels’ or ‘no cost solar program’? Usually, they are referring to solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPA’s). Under these solar financing arrangements, a solar company will put a solar system on your roof at no up-front cost to you for installation, enrollment, or maintenance. This sounds great – you get to say that your home is powered by clean energy, and can even point to the solar panels on your roof to prove it.

But the reality is that you do not technically own the system, and the solar energy the panels produce is not part of a ‘no cost’ solar program. Under solar lease agreements, ownership is retained by the solar company, and you pay for the electricity it produces. In essence, the company has built a small power plant on your roof and is selling you the electricity.

Simply put, you cannot get free solar panels from the government. These payment plans are actually solar leases or PPAs, and they’re a no-cost upfront option that gives ownership to the solar company or installer. You pay for the electricity the system produces, and you miss out on many of the financial benefits and incentives of renewable energy. That’s not to say that PPAs or solar leases are bad – you can still save money in the long run! If you’re interested in learning about ways that the federal and local government can offset the cost of installing solar panels, we recommend learning more about the Renewable Energy Tax Credit and exploring your eligibility for state and local programs.

If you’re looking for free solar panels, or at least solar panels with less cost upfront, solar leases could be a good option for you. You may have various reasons for going solar. If you’re like most people, saving money, eliminating your utility bills and/or reducing your carbon footprint are probably at the top of the list. The environmental benefits of going solar are more or less the same regardless of who installs your system, so it’s key to focus on the financial benefits.

Regardless of its ‘do-good’ image, the solar industry is an industry like any other: the companies offering products are looking to turn a profit. Providers of solar leases make their money by selling you electricity, usually at a lower rate than what you pay your utility.

Although companies like SolarCity once dominated the market for solar leases, countless new players have since entered the space and began competing with each other, while SolarCity is no longer around. Some solar leases will save you more money on your electric bills than others. You as a solar shopper can now take your pick of company based on their offer. So even if financial gain is secondary to environmental considerations for you, you should still shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

The revolutionary thing about solar leases was that they made it possible for virtually anyone with a roof to go solar, regardless of whether they had cash in the bank to purchase a system. Solar leases were crucial in removing barriers to entry back when solar system prices were prohibitively high.

But times have changed substantially since solar leases were introduced. Solar systems are now more affordable than ever, now that financing options other than solar leases have become viable. The most important of these is the solar loan, which combines the ‘zero-down’ aspect of the solar lease with the benefits of system ownership (‘the best of both worlds‘).

So, before you sign up for the first ‘free solar panel’ or ‘no cost solar program’ deal that comes your way, make sure you understand what you’re being offered and that you’ve considered all of your other options. In other words, be a smart solar shopper.

Now that you understand the nuances between solar leases, power purchase agreements, and solar loans, it’s important to assess the return on investment in each scenario. Here’s a break down of the most potential to least potential return depending on the payment plan you choose (cash purchase, personal loan, or solar leases and PPAs):

Buying your rooftop solar panel system outright is usually the best value over 25 years. Even though your initial cost could be steep, you can reap all of the financial benefits and savings associated with going solar (incentives, tax credits, and more).

Applying for a solar loan is the next best option when it comes to a return on investment. The initial cost is $0; however, interest payments chip away at energy savings for approximately the first seven years until the loan is paid off. The payback period will ultimately depend on factors like the upfront cost, size, energy efficiency, and interest rates associated with your solar photovoltaic system. After that time period, you get to keep 100% of your energy savings.

Choosing to go with a solar lease or solar PPA may be something worth considering for certain homeowners. The biggest selling point here is that there is no upfront cost, but beware that the value is dampened by the solar company who takes out their cut of your savings through your monthly payments. By the end of your warranty period, the lease or PPA will have taken up more than half of your potential savings as profits for the solar installer.

The main takeaway when considering a ‘no cost’ solar program or PPA is that you don’t own the solar panel system on your roof—the installer does. Most agreements are structured in a way that heavily benefits the installer, and it allows them to claim the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), as well as any local incentives, for going solar.

If you’ve been on the fence about switching to solar energy, there may be a financial incentive offered by the government that seals the deal for you. Right now, the best solar incentive is the Federal Tax Credit, or ITC, which is available to all U.S. homeowners. As of 2022, this federal incentive allows you to claim the credit when you buy a solar energy system – you can currently credit up to 30 percent of your spending on the purchase and related installation costs. This tax credit value is applicable if the system is placed and in service before December 31, 2032.

However, if you choose a ‘no cost’ solar program or PPA, your installer will get this credit instead of you. For example, if the system on your roof costs $10,000, the ITC would award $3,000 to the system owner – however, because the installer would technically own the system, they’d receive that money. Essentially, you’d be missing out on one of the key financial benefits of investing in renewable energy.

Two other programs worth mentioning include Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) and performance based incentives. First, some states that have ambitious renewable energy goals are striving to meet quotas related to solar production which has led to SRECs. Eligible houses with solar systems that can produce more than one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity can claim SRECs. Additionally, performance based incentives are rewards given for producing a certain amount of solar energy. For example, if you’re eligible for performance based incentives, your utility would pay you for producing a set quantity of electricity from your solar system, whether you choose to use it or you send it back to the grid.

The other perk here is that you can apply the 30 percent discount costs of your solar system after also taking any state-level rebates or incentives, meaning you can benefit from both federal and state incentives to help offset the costs of going solar. On a state level, most have an incentive program in the form of a tax credit, but it varies state-to-state. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to take advantage of state net metering programs in which you’re compensated by your utility company for excess kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity you send back to the grid. Many local cities and counties also offer direct rebates to help with the costs of solar panel installations.

Whether you’re considering opting into a no-cost solar program, or you’re second-guessing the sales pitch, check out a few frequently asked questions people have regarding this trend in renewable energy:

Because ‘free solar panels’ is a misleading statement, it’s important to say this – no one is eligible for ‘free solar panels.’ In recent years, some people have been taken advantage of due to these claims, especially those in low-income communities. However, solar leases have made it much easier for anyone with a roof to go solar, regardless of whether or not they can afford the upfront cost of installation.

No, there is no such thing as a no-cost solar program. These programs are actually solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs) in which a company will install solar panels on your roof for no money up-front, but they will charge you for the electricity produced.

There’s really no such thing as truly free solar panels – companies offering them aren’t necessarily tryingto scam you, but they’re also not being 100% honest. While verified installers may offer the panels themselves for no cost, you as the buyer will still need to pay for installation. Solar United Neighbors offers a checklist on how to spot solar scams – if you think you have been the victim of a solar scam, you can report it to the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker.

While you cannot get panels for free, there are payment plans which are actually solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs), and they’re a no-cost upfront option that gives ownership to the solar company or installer.

Solar panels may not be free, but you can get free, custom quotes from pre-vetted solar installers when you sign up on the EnergySage Marketplace. Comparing quotes allows you to see more options and ultimately get a great deal on your solar panel system. To get a quick estimate of how much you’ll save with solar – whether you choose to pay upfront, use a $0-down loan, or go with a solar lease/PPA – check out our solar calculator.

The solar panel monitoring app enables utilities and partners to monitor solar panels, such as their energy generation and connection status in near real time. It can send notifications based on defined threshold criteria. It provides sample commands, such as update firmware and other properties. The solar panel data can be set up to egress to other business applications and to develop custom solutions.

Solar panels are one of the significant sources of renewable energy. Typically, a solar panel uses a gateway to connect to an IoT Central application. You might need to build IoT Central device bridge to connect devices, which can"t be connected directly. The IoT Central device bridge is an open-source solution and you can find the complete details here.

When you build an IoT solution, Azure IoT Central simplifies the build process and helps to reduce the burden and costs of IoT management, operations, and development. With IoT Central, you can easily connect, monitor, and manage your Internet of Things (IoT) assets at scale. After you connect your solar panels to IoT Central, the application template uses built-in features such as device models, commands, and dashboards. The application template also uses the IoT Central storage for warm path scenarios such as near real-time meter data monitoring, analytics, rules, and visualization.

Adatum is a fictitious energy company that monitors and manages solar panels. On the solar panel monitoring dashboard, you see solar panel properties, data, and sample commands. This dashboard allows you or your support team to perform the following activities proactively, before any problems require additional support:

The District’s Sustainable DC initiative establishes goals and targets for responding to climate change. Additionally, the Clean Energy DC (CEDC) Omnibus Act of 2018, raised the percentage of solar energy carve out in the District from 5% to 10% by 2041. Conventional forms of energy emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the environment, while solar energy is emissions free.

Rooftop solar generation is the leading strategy for generating local, clean energy in the densely developed District. Installing solar panels on your home or business is one way that you can help the District achieve its greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. In addition, rooftop solar not only benefits the environment but it can also reduce your annual energy costs.

The Renewable Portfolio Standard Expansion Amendment Act of 2016 established the District"s Solar for All Program (Solar for All). The Act intends to increase the amount of solar generated within the District, providing the benefits of locally-generated solar energy to low- to moderate- income households, small businesses, nonprofits, and seniors.

Solar for All’s overall mission is to provide the benefits of solar electricity to 100,000 low- to moderate- income households, by reducing their electric bills by 50% by 2032.Eligible District residents can participate in Solar for All through the single family solar or community solar programs if their household income is at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI) threshold.

Solarize DC is a community-based outreach initiative to bring solar power to District residents in their homes and businesses throughout the city. Many residents are interested in solar but do not know are where to start. DOEE has teamed up with EnergySage to help District residents make the switch to solar energy by installing solar panels on their property or subscribing to a local community solar farm. View EnergySage resources and information below. Got questions? Reach out to our team at

Solar Works DC is the District"s premiere solar photovoltaic system installation and job training program.The Program operates a comprehensive year-round training program for District residents.Read More>>

Solar energy is energy from the sun. One way the sun’s energy can be harnessed is by using photovoltaic (PV) panels. PV panels and related equipment work by converting the sun’s rays (photons) into electricity we can use (electrons).

Decide what is best for you — buying or leasing the solar system, or subscribing to community solar (a great option with no upfront costs if you rent or don’t have a roof ideal for solar). Visit CESA and/or DC SUN to learn more about solar financing.

Community solar projects generate and distribute solar energy to the electric grid. As a subscriber, you’re able to purchase a share of this energy (typically at a discount) which shows up as credits on your electric bill and reduces what you owe your utility company. Learn more about community solar.

Community solar has no upfront costs or long-term commitments. Better yet, when you subscribe, you can save on your electricity bills by supporting local solar projects. On average, you’ll save between 5-15% annually on your electric bills with community solar. Learn more about how community solar costs fluctuate.

If you subscribe to a community solar project, you’ll receive two bills: one from your utility company like Pepco (your electric bill) and another from your community solar provider. Due to the seasonality of solar and electricity usage, your bill credits and energy usage likely won’t line up 1:1 each month. Learn more about community solar billing.

You can easily find out a list of local DC solar farms accepting new subscribers in your area through our partner EnergySage’s Community Solar Marketplace.

You will need to have local DC solar installer assess your roof to see if it’s a good fit for solar. Most standard roofs work well for installing solar panels including metal seam roofs, Spanish tile roofs, and asphalt shingles. However, some flat roofs may require a more significant investment to make solar panels work efficiently. You can use a solar calculator to estimate what solar would cost to install at your home. If your roof isn’t a good candidate for solar, you can still use community solar to save money and help the environment.

First and foremost, most people who go solar save money by doing so. With higher electricity rates in DC compared to many other areas throughout the country, solar panels can pay off even more quickly. While there’s an initial cost to installing a solar system, you’ll be eligible for several solar incentives in DC including:

SRECs: Solar Renewable Energy Certificates essentially mean that you can make money on electricity that your solar panels produce that you don’t use. In 2021, SRECs in DC sold for prices between $365 and $435 – higher than anywhere else in the country! On the lower end of that range, an 8 kilowatt system that generates 8 MWh annually would earn you an extra $2,920 each year.

You can essentially use three different options to pay for solar — cash, solar loan, or solar lease (also known as power purchase agreements or PPAs). Paying with cash means you avoid additional costs such as interest or solar loan fees. However, solar loans can help you reduce upfront costs and help you start saving money sooner.

Solar operates most efficiently when there is direct access to sunlight. In some cases, rooftops may not be suitable for a solar system because of shading from trees, the direction you roof faces, or the age of the roof or its support system. If your home is not suitable for rooftop solar or if you rent your home or apartment, an option might be subscribing to a community solar system. If your home is not suitable for rooftop solar or if you rent your home or apartment, you can save money by subscribing to a community solar system. By subscribing to a community solar project, you can get credit on your electric bill for the solar energy generated at a solar farm.

Community solar is a way to allow members of a community the opportunity to share the benefits of solar power even if they cannot or prefer not to install solar panels on their property. By subscribing to a community solar project, you can get credit on your electric bill for thesolar energy generated at a different location. Learn more about Community Renewable Energy Facilities in the District by visiting Pepco.

The price of solar PV systems has dramatically decreased in recent years and there are multiple routes to help finance solar installations. Review the District Consumer Solar Financing Guide for more information (Spanish version also attached below).

The District’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requires electric suppliers to secure a portion of their electricity from solar generators which has created a vibrant local market for Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). A SREC is a market-based instrument that represents the property rights to the environmental, social and other non-power attributes of renewable electricity generation. SRECs are issued when one megawatt-hour (MWh) of solar electricity is generated and can be sold in the SREC market. Learn more about SRECs at EPA. Learn more about SRECs at EPA.

Even in a relatively young industry, First Solar’s roots run deep in American soil. Born in the Midwest, headquartered in the Southwest, and shipped worldwide, First Solar is an American success story. Driven by a passion for innovation and powered by American ingenuity, First Solar has consistently invested in American manufacturing and American jobs. Today, it is the only US-headquartered company among the world’s 10 largest module producers.

The previous requirement for professional certification is no longer required. Photovoltaic (PV) projects meeting the criteria below do not require a plan review and can be submitted electronically using a Residential Rooftop-Mounted Solar PV Permit.

A Residential Rooftop-Mounted Solar PV Permit is required to install a residential rooftop-mounted solar PV system or solar photovoltaic shingles. PV systems for single-family, duplex or townhouse roof installations designed per the template in Information Bulletin 301 can be submitted through this streamlined process with no plan review with the limits/allowances below.

All ground-mounted solar PVs located 5-ft above ground, commercial solar PV with structural or building modifications will need to submit online for a Building Permit.

There are two primary technologies that can harness the sun’s power and turn it into electricity. The first is the one you’re likely most familiar with – photovoltaics, or PV. These are the panels you’ve seen on rooftops or in fields. When the sun shines onto a solar panel, photons from the sunlight are absorbed by the cells in the panel, which creates an electric field across the layers and causes electricity to flow. Learn more about how PV works.

The second technology is concentrating solar power, or CSP. It is used primarily in very large power plants and is not appropriate for residential use. This technology uses mirrors to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto receivers that collect solar energy and convert it to heat, which can then be used to produce electricity. Learn more about how CSP works.

Solar panels are built to work in all climates, but in some cases, rooftops may not be suitable for solar systems due to age or tree cover. If there are trees near your home that create excessive shade on your roof, rooftop panels may not be the most ideal option. The size, shape, and slope of your roof are also important factors to consider. Typically, solar panels perform best on south-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees, though other roofs may be suitable too. You should also consider the age of your roof and how long until it will need replacement.

If a solar professional determines that your roof is not suitable for solar, or you don’t own your home, you can still benefit from solar energy. Community solar allows multiple people to benefit from a single, shared solar array that can be installed on- or off-site. Costs associated with purchasing and installing a solar energy system are divided among all of the participants, who are able to buy into the shared system at a level that best fits their budget. Learn more about community solar.

Those interested in community solar can take advantage of a tool from SETO awardee EnergySage. The company"s Community Solar Marketplace aggregates the many available options in one place and standardizes project information, allowing interested consumers to easily locate and compare multiple community solar projects in their area.

There are a number of mapping services that have been developed by SETO awardees that will help you determine if your roof is suitable for solar and can even provide you with quotes from pre-screened solar providers in your area. In addition to those resources, an internet search can help you find local companies that install solar panels. Because you will likely have many options to choose from, it’s important to thoroughly read reviews of solar companies to make sure you are selecting the best fit for you and your home.

Solar co-ops and Solarize campaigns can also help you start the process of going solar. These programs work by allowing groups of homeowners to work together to collectively negotiate rates, select an installer, and create additional community interest in solar through a limited-time offer to join the campaign. Ultimately, as the number of residents who participate in the program increase, the cost of the installations will decrease.

Right now, the best way to install solar is through a qualified professional who holds a certification to do so and works with high-quality solar panels. The industry-standard certification is awarded through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed a tool called PVWatts for this purpose. It estimates the energy production and cost of energy of grid-connected PV energy systems for any address in the world. It allows homeowners, small building owners, installers, and manufacturers to easily develop estimates of the performance of potential PV installations, and can even compare solar’s cost to utility bills. These tools are great for getting started, but make sure to work with a solar installer for a custom estimate of how much power your solar energy system is likely to generate.

The amount of money you can save with solar depends upon how much electricity you consume, the size of your solar energy system, if you choose to buy or lease your system, and how much power it is able to generate given the direction your roof faces and how much sunlight hits it. Your savings also depend on the electricity rates set by your utility and how much the utility will compensate you for the excess solar energy you send back to the grid. Check the National Utility Rate Database to see current electricity rates in your area.

In some cities around the country, solar is already cost competitive with the electricity sold by your local utility. The cost of going solar has dropped every year since 2009, a trend researchers expect to continue. Not only are the prices of panels dropping, so are the costs associated with installation, such as permitting and inspection—also known as “soft costs.” All of SETO"s funding programs are working toward improving the affordability of solar and making it easier for consumers to choose solar.

It should also be noted that energy efficiency upgrades complement solar energy economically. By using Energy Star appliances and other products in your home, you’ll need less solar energy to power your home.

Consumers have different financial options to select from when deciding to go solar. In general, a purchased solar system can be installed at a lower total cost than system installed using a solar loan, lease, or power purchase agreement (PPA).

If you prefer to buy your solar energy system, solar loans can lower the up-front costs of the system. In most cases, monthly loan payments are smaller than a typical energy bill, which will help you save money from the start. Solar loans function the same way as home improvement loans, and some jurisdictions will offer subsidized solar energy loans with below-market interest rates, making solar even more affordable. New homeowners can add solar as part of their mortgage with loans available through the Federal Housing Administration and Fannie Mae, which allow borrowers to include financing for home improvements in the home’s purchase price. Buying a solar energy system makes you eligible for the Solar Investment Tax Credit, or ITC. In December 2020, Congress passed an extension of the ITC, which provides a 26% tax credit for systems installed in 2020-2022, and 22% for systems installed in 2023. The tax credit expires starting in 2024 unless Congress renews it. Learn more about the ITC.

Solar leases and PPAs allow consumers to host solar energy systems that are owned by solar companies and purchase back the electricity generated. Consumers enter into agreements that allow them to have lower electricity bills without monthly loan payments. In many cases, that means putting no money down to go solar. Solar leases entail fixed monthly payments that are calculated using the estimated amount of electricity the system will produce. With a solar PPA, consumers agree to purchase the power generated by the system at a set price per kilowatt-hour of electricity produced. With both of these options, though, you are not entitled to tax benefits since you don’t own the solar energy system.

Navigating the landscape of solar financing can be difficult. The Clean Energy States Alliance released a guide to help homeowners understand their options, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each. Download the guide.

DOE created the Homeowner"s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics to provide an overview of the federal investment tax credit for those interested in residential solar photovoltaics, or PV. It does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance. And it should not be used as the only source of information when making purchasing decisions, investment decisions, or tax decisions, or when executing other binding agreements.

If you want to learn more about state and federal solar policies regarding incentives and tax breaks, the Solar Power in Your Community guidebook (PDF) has a section—Appendix A on page 87—that explains it in detail.

Buying a solar energy system will likely increase your home’s value. A recent study found that solar panels are viewed as upgrades, just like a renovated kitchen or a finished basement, and home buyers across the country have been willing to pay a premium of about $15,000 for a home with an average-sized solar array. Additionally, there is evidence homes with solar panels sell faster than those without. In 2008, California homes with energy efficient features and PV were found to sell faster than homes that consume more energy. Keep in mind, these studies focused on homeowner-owned solar arrays.

The PV Value® tool is helpful for both home sellers and homebuyers. It calculates the energy production value for a PV system and is compliant with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice and has been endorsed by the Appraisal Institute for the income approach method. Make sure your appraiser uses this tool to get the most accurate estimate of your PV system’s value.

Net metering is an arrangement between solar energy system owners and utilities in which the system owners are compensated for any solar power generation that is exported to the electricity grid. The name derives from the 1990s, when the electric meter simply ran backwards when power was being exported, but it is rarely that simple today. Whether or not your solar system qualifies for net metering payments depends on policies and practices in your state and electric utility. Your local electric utility would be a good place to source information on net metering in your service area. When researching net metering policies and practices in your service area, there are some basic questions to consider, such as availability in your service area, eligible system size and customer type, rates, and design of bill credits.

Yes! Building-integrated photovoltaics, or BIPV, allows homeowners to alter the appearance of their solar panels so they match their surroundings. SETO has funded projects that commercialized technology enabling homeowners to add a graphical layer to their solar panels so they blend in with the roof. Learn more about BIPV.

Storage refers to energy storage, most often in the form of batteries. Installing energy storage with a solar system can help utilize the power generated when it’s needed most, regardless of whether it’s sunny outside at the time. Storage allows you to save that energy and use it later in the day, like when you turn the heat on at night or run the dishwasher after dinner or even when the power goes out. Ask your solar installer if they offer battery storage options and learn more about storing solar energy.

Absolutely! All solar panels meet international inspection and testing standards, and a qualified installer will install them to meet local building, fire, and electrical codes. Also, your solar energy system will undergo a thorough inspection from a certified electrician as part of the installation process.

Using solar power instead of conventional forms of energy reduces the amount of carbon and other pollutants that are emitted into the environment. Reducing the amount of carbon in our atmosphere translates into less pollution and cleaner air and water.

Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Power – In an effort to make going solar as effortless and streamlined as possible, the Solar Energy Industries Association developed this guide to inform potential solar customers about the financing options available, contracting terms to be aware of, and other useful tips.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Solar Financing: Leases, Loans and PPAs – This guide from the Clean Energy States Alliance helps homeowners navigate the complex landscape of residential solar system financing. It describes three popular residential solar financing choices and explains the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as how they compare to a direct cash purchase.

Solar PV Project Financing: Regulatory and Legislative Challenges for Third-Party PPA System Owners– Third-party owned solar arrays allow a developer to build and own a PV system on a customer’s property and sell the power back to the customer. While this can eliminate many of the up-front costs of going solar, third-party electricity sales face regulatory and legislative challenges in some states and jurisdictions. This report details the challenges and explains alternatives.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: Encouraging Solar Development through Community Association Policies and Processes – This guide, written for association boards of directors and architectural review committees, discusses the advantages of solar energy and examines the elements of state solar rights provisions designed to protect homeowner access to these benefits. It then presents a number of recommendations associations can use to help bring solar to their communities.

Selling into the Sun: Price Premium Analysis of a Multi-State Dataset of Solar Homes – This report from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory finds that home buyers are consistently willing to pay premiums of approximately $15,000 for homes that have solar across various states, housing and PV markets, and home types.

SEIA Residential Lease Disclosure Form – This form for solar energy leasing companies will help consumers better understand the terms and costs of their solar leases. The form is also designed to help consumers choose among competitive providers.

Residential Solar-Adopter Income and Demographic Trends – This report from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory finds that while solar adoption skews toward high-income households, low- and moderate-income households are also adopting, and that the rooftop solar market is becoming more equitable over time.

Freedom Solar is a full-service solar company installing solar panels and backup power systems for homeowners and businesses since 2007. Our mission is to provide complete residential and commercial solar power solutions with quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and excellent customer service that inspires you to recommend us to others.

Freedom Solar specializes in installing solar panels for residential homes including complex projects such as rooftop solar panels on Spanish tile, standing seam metal solar panels, solar panels on corrugated roof, solar panels on flat roof, and other roof types, as well as ground mount arrays and off-grid systems.

Every commercial solar installation is custom and starts with understanding your goals.Solar panels and backup power supply on ballasted, flat, TPO, and metal roofing, ground mount, parking structures

Our in-house service department is here for all of your residential and commercial solar energy needs.Dedicated team of full-time, trained, certified, licensed employees

As a residential and commercial customer of Freedom Solar, I can confirm their strong reputation. They are thriving in Houston because of their integrity and solution-oriented approach. Paul Hobby, Founding Partner of Genesis Park LP and Former CEO of Texas Monthly magazine in Houston

Hands down, Freedom Solar has been the best construction installer that we have worked with. They have fantastic customer service skills and constantly demonstrate their enthusiasm for solar power. Laura E.

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How many solar panels does the average house need? How many solar panels do I need for a 3-bedroom house? How many solar panels do I need for a 2000 sq. ft. home? These are all common questions for an aspiring solar homeowner. Determining how many solar panels you’ll need for your home requires first knowing what your goals are.

One simple way of answering the “How many solar panels do I need” question is to consult a professional solar installer, who can give you a free home solar evaluation.

To determine your home’s average energy requirements, look at past utility bills. You can calculate how many solar panels you need by multiplying your household’s hourly energy requirement by the peak sunlight hours for your area and dividing that by a panel’s wattage. Use a low-wattage (150 W) and high-wattage (370 W) example to establish a range (ex: 17-42 panels to generate 11,000 kWh/year). Note that the size of your roof and how much sunlight your roof gets are factors as well.

If you work with an experienced solar installer, they will handle all these calculations for you. If you’re searching for a calculator to figure out “how many solar panels do I need?”, look no further. You can use SunPower Design Studio to estimate your own system size, monthly savings, and the actual appearance of a solar array on your own roof. This interactive tool provides a solar estimate in just a few seconds and can be done on your own or on a call with SunPower (800) 786-7693.

Your average daily energy usage is your target daily average to calculate your solar needs. That’s the number of kilowatt-hours you need your solar system to produce if you want to cover most if not all of your electricity needs.

It’s important to note that solar panels don’t operate at maximum efficiency 24 hours a day. (See Solar 101: How Does Solar Energy Work?). Weather conditions, for example, can temporarily reduce your system’s efficiency. Therefore, experts recommend adding a 25 percent “cushion” to your target daily average to ensure you can generate all the clean energy you need.

The peak sunlight hours for your particular location will have a direct impact on the energy you can expect your home solar system to produce. For example, if you live in Phoenix you can expect to have a greater number of peak sunlight hours than if you lived in Seattle. That doesn’t mean a Seattle homeowner can’t go solar; it just means the homeowner would need more panels.

Here’s where solar panel quality makes a difference. Not all solar panels are alike. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels (most commonly used in residential installations) come in wattages ranging from about 150 watts to 370 watts per panel, depending on the panel size and efficiency (how well a panel is able to convert sunlight into energy), and on the cell technology.

For example, solar cells with no grid lines on the front (like SunPower® Maxeon® cells) absorb more sunlight than conventional cells and do not suffer from issues such as delamination (peeling). The construction of our cells makes them stronger and more resistant to cracking or corrosion. And a microinverter on each panel can optimize power conversion at the source, in contrast to one large inverter mounted on the side of the house.

Because of these wide variations in quality and efficiency, it’s difficult to generalize about which solar panels are right for you or how many you’ll need for your home. The main takeaway is that the more efficient the panels are, the more wattage they can produce, and the fewer you will need on your roof to get the same energy output. Conventional solar panels usually produce about 250 watts per panel, with varying levels of efficiency. In contrast, SunPower panels are known to be the most efficient solar panels on the market.*

To figure out how many solar panels you need, divide your home’s hourly wattage requirement (see question No. 3) by the solar panels’ wattage to calculate the total number of panels you need.

If you have a small or unusually shaped roof, solar panel size and numbers are important considerations. With a large usable roof area, perhaps you can sacrifice some efficiency and buy larger panels (at a lower cost per panel) to get to your target energy output. But if your usable roof area is limited, or if it’s partially shaded, being able to use fewer smaller high-efficiency panels may be the best way to make the most possible power over the long term, ultimately saving you more money.

Typical residential solar panel dimensions today are about 65 inches by 39 inches, or 5.4 feet by 3.25 feet, with some variation among manufacturers. SunPower panels are 61.3 inches by 41.2 inches.

If you’re planning on installing a rooftop solar system, understanding the weight of your solar panels is another key factor to consider. Knowing a solar panel’s weight is the best way to be certain that your roof can support a full installation.

You should also consider net metering as you’re considering how much money you’ll save and make from your solar system. Net metering is how your utility company credits you for producing excess solar energy when the sun is shining and then lets you draw from those credits when you’re using a conventional power grid at night if you don’t store your excess solar energy in a battery storage system.

If you suspect that your solar panels are suffering from low productivity, the first step is identifying the exact issue. You could be simply dealing with seasonal variations, or your solar panels could be in need of cleaning. However, your solar PV system could also be suffering a major malfunction, which requires professional attention and possibly a warranty claim.

Solar panel inverters from leading brands like Fronius and Sungrow come with built-in monitoring systems and mobile apps. You can check the daily output of your solar panels from a smartphone, and performance issues are reflected as a drop in the daily kilowatt-hour output. When this happens, you can start by ruling out normal variations in productivity and problems that are easy to fix, including:

Solar panels can be expected to lose productivity over time, but this happens slowly — a sudden drop in electricity output normally means trouble. Keep in mind that the best solar panels lose less than 0.5% of their capacity each year. So if your system generated 10,000 kWh during its first year of operation, you can still expect around 9,950 kWh the second year.

You can also detect solar panel issues by keeping track of your electricity bills, but note that higher bills can have several causes. For example, if you live in a place with hot summers, you can expect air conditioning to increase your bills during that time of the year.

The best option is having a dedicated monitoring system for your solar panels, to obtain measurements that are not affected by other electrical devices. Older inverters may lack metering functions, but there are monitoring systems that offer compatibility with multiple inverter brands. Modern inverters can detect many types of faults on their own, and they will diagnose exactly what is happening. This makes troubleshooting much easier.

Many solar power issues can be fixed with cleaning and checking if there are loose connections or tripped breakers. However, some problems are a bit more challenging:

If your solar panels have been shaded by trees that were previously shorter, the trees must be trimmed. Moving solar panels is not recommended — it’s more difficult than trimming trees, system components may be damaged and warranties could be voided.

Shading from new constructions can be prevented by getting a solar easement in advance. Just keep in mind that your neighbors must agree to sign it, or otherwise they have no legal impediment to build structures that cast shadows. Before installing your solar panels, take your time to research the constructions that are being planned in surrounding properties.

As mentioned above, there may be cases in which your monitoring system displays zero production but your solar panels are working normally. Or, there could really be an issue that prevents electricity production. In both cases, you should contact your solar PV system provider for an inspection. Waiting for the next power bill is not recommended, as you may get an unpleasant surprise.

Electrical faults and other major malfunctions are rare if your solar power system uses high-quality components installed by professionals. However, these issues can happen even with the best solar products.

You may be left without solar power for some days if there is a malfunction, but any damaged components will be replaced for free if you have a solid warranty.

Generally, the company that installed your solar panels will help with warranty claims and component replacements if necessary. However, this only applies if you’re dealing with professionals, which is just one reason it’s important that you make sure you purchase your solar PV system from a qualified provider. If you’re interested in getting connected with a professional solar installer in your area, fill out the form below.

Even if your solar panels are working normally, there are many things you can do to use their electricity more efficiently and increase your savings. Adjust your energy consumption habits and program your appliances to operate around noon whenever possible, as this is when the sun is directly overhead. Avoid using appliances in the evening, when many electricity providers are charging their highest tariffs. Also, make sure your solar panels are cleaned regularly, or their kilowatt-hour output could drop significantly.