QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
How does solar energy work?
Photovoltaic (PV) devices generate electricity directly from sunlight via an electronic process that occurs naturally in certain types of material. Electrons in certain types of crystals are freed by solar energy and can be induced to travel through an electrical circuit, powering any type of electronic device or load.
What is a PV array?
An interconnected system of PV modules that function as a single electricity-producing unit. The modules are assembled as a discrete structure, with common support or mounting. In smaller systems, an array can consist of a single module.
Are solar electric systems safe?
Yes. Solar cells are mostly silicon, the primary component of sand. There is no exhaust and no toxic materials to leak out of the system. The electricity coming through the inverter is just like the electricity coming from household wall sockets; you should use the same care you would with utility power. All components are approved for utility interconnection and are installed according to standard construction practices.
What is PV conversion efficiency?
It is the ratio of the electric power produced by a PV device to the power of the sunlight shining on the device.
What Happens If the Sun Doesn’t Shine?
Receiving and using electricity is depended on the storage system for a stand-alone PV system. The following are factors to consider for an off-grid system:
- Days of autonomy
- Battery capacity
- Rate and depth of discharge
- Life expectancy
- Environmental conditions
- Price and warranty
- Maintenance schedule
For a grid tied system, your line-tied solar electric system will continue to produce electricity during cloudy weather at a slower rate. At night or during inclement weather, additional electricity is provided to your home through your utility connection.
Are solar energy systems becoming cheaper?
Solar panels are still quite costly when compared to conventional electricity. This is because the production of solar panels requires high tech equipment, still is labor intensive and requires special materials. However, every solar panel purchased makes the next one cheaper, in stark contrast to nonrenewable sources, which become scarcer and more expensive with every ton that is burned. The price has gradually been coming down in recent years because of market growth, improved materials and production processes. (Courtesy of Solar Energy Industries Association, SEIA)
Isn’t Solar Electricity Expensive?
No. The cost of solar technology has dropped dramatically in the past 10 years and thanks to many state rebates, income tax credits and net metering, a solar electric system may be your most cost-effective power solution. With current cash incentives, a typical California family, can expect to spend about $12,000 on a solar electric system that meets at least half of their household electricity needs.
I Already Have Utility Power — So Why Should I Choose Solar Electricity?
Solar electric systems allow you to lock in your electric rates at today’s prices. With fossil fuels likely to become more expensive in the future, purchasing a solar electric system today is a smart economic move. Solar electric systems also offer greater self-sufficiency, reduce dependence on imported oil and are far better for the environment than power from conventional power plants. Altair Energy’s line-tied solar electric systems make it easy and affordable to produce electricity right at your home.
What Is a Grid-Tied Solar Electric System?
“Grid-tied” means that your system is connected to the utility lines or the “grid”. A grid-tied solar electric system is designed to meet all or a portion of your daily energy needs. This connection enables you to obtain the balance of your electricity from your local utility; it also allows you to send excess solar electricity back to your power company for use later.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
How does solar energy work?
Photovoltaic (PV) devices generate electricity directly from sunlight via an electronic process that occurs naturally in certain types of material. Electrons in certain types of crystals are freed by solar energy and can be induced to travel through an electrical circuit, powering any type of electronic device or load.
What is a PV array?
An interconnected system of PV modules that function as a single electricity-producing unit. The modules are assembled as a discrete structure, with common support or mounting. In smaller systems, an array can consist of a single module.
Are solar electric systems safe?
Yes. Solar cells are mostly silicon, the primary component of sand. There is no exhaust and no toxic materials to leak out of the system. The electricity coming through the inverter is just like the electricity coming from household wall sockets; you should use the same care you would with utility power. All components are approved for utility interconnection and are installed according to standard construction practices.
What is PV conversion efficiency?
It is the ratio of the electric power produced by a PV device to the power of the sunlight shining on the device.
What Happens If the Sun Doesn’t Shine?
Receiving and using electricity is depended on the storage system for a stand-alone PV system. The following are factors to consider for an off-grid system:
- Days of autonomy
- Battery capacity
- Rate and depth of discharge
- Life expectancy
- Environmental conditions
- Price and warranty
- Maintenance schedule
For a grid tied system, your line-tied solar electric system will continue to produce electricity during cloudy weather at a slower rate. At night or during inclement weather, additional electricity is provided to your home through your utility connection.
Are solar energy systems becoming cheaper?
Solar panels are still quite costly when compared to conventional electricity. This is because the production of solar panels requires high tech equipment, still is labor intensive and requires special materials. However, every solar panel purchased makes the next one cheaper, in stark contrast to nonrenewable sources, which become scarcer and more expensive with every ton that is burned. The price has gradually been coming down in recent years because of market growth, improved materials and production processes. (Courtesy of Solar Energy Industries Association, SEIA)
Isn’t Solar Electricity Expensive?
No. The cost of solar technology has dropped dramatically in the past 10 years and thanks to many state rebates, income tax credits and net metering, a solar electric system may be your most cost-effective power solution. With current cash incentives, a typical California family, can expect to spend about $12,000 on a solar electric system that meets at least half of their household electricity needs.
I Already Have Utility Power — So Why Should I Choose Solar Electricity?
Solar electric systems allow you to lock in your electric rates at today’s prices. With fossil fuels likely to become more expensive in the future, purchasing a solar electric system today is a smart economic move. Solar electric systems also offer greater self-sufficiency, reduce dependence on imported oil and are far better for the environment than power from conventional power plants. Altair Energy’s line-tied solar electric systems make it easy and affordable to produce electricity right at your home.
What Is a Grid-Tied Solar Electric System?
“Grid-tied” means that your system is connected to the utility lines or the “grid”. A grid-tied solar electric system is designed to meet all or a portion of your daily energy needs. This connection enables you to obtain the balance of your electricity from your local utility; it also allows you to send excess solar electricity back to your power company for use later.