One aspect of solar that most homeowners and business owners appreciate is how low-maintenance their solar PV systems really are. Solar system maintenance is minimal, but what is required can't be skipped! After the short installation process, the day-to-day functioning of a household or business returns to normal. However, to ensure longevity of … [Read more...]
Solar Interconnection: What is It?
We have said it before and will probably say it again: we work hard to make solar interconnection installation look simple. We work hard with our Energy Advisers and installation teams to ensure that everyone has the training and access to necessary resources to make the solar experience simple, fluid and enjoyable. However, not all steps of the … [Read more...]
Solar Powered HVAC
Before becoming a card-carrying member of the solar community, I truly did not think of the solar industry as one that was saturated with gimmicks. However, the longer I have been immersed into the world of green energy, the more I have become acquainted with the many tactics people use to make their company stand out, or to make their sales … [Read more...]
Solar Design: Is My House Right For Solar?
With the long hot days of summer upon us, many people are walking into the downtown Showroom to learn a bit more about our residential solar design and installation services. We get questions about panels, manufacturers, and installation practices. Yet, the first question people ask more than anything else is, “Is my house a good house for … [Read more...]
Solar Education
"We Can Do Better" We can do better. The one statement that seems to be on repeat in the Solar Showroom as of late is, “We can do better.” And this, fundamentally, is because we can do better in solar education. Let me explain. Solar is an industry people tend to fall in love with. And like most things you find a deep passion for, you soak up … [Read more...]
Solar Myths Examined
When I came into the solar industry, I never realized that it was an industry of fable, myth and mystery. I saw it as a construction-based industry that was based upon science, technology and education. However, the longer I have been in the field and the deeper I find myself embedded in the business, I have found I spend many hours a week … [Read more...]
Solar Building Codes
Building and Fire Code Matters Recently we have seen an influx of customers walking into our showroom with a wave of questions outside the typical realm of questions people bring to the table. The most eye-opening question is, “Can you look at our plan sets? I am not sure they are to code.” Our first response is, “OF COURSE code … [Read more...]
Solar Power System: Is Too Much Solar A Concern?
In early summer, the California Independent System Operator, who is one of two wholesale electricity centers in California, reported that due to renewable power plants having to shut down energy production because the California solar power system is producing more energy than the state and its homeowners need. A report from early June 2018 states … [Read more...]
Do Not Forget To Update Your Insurance
Installing a solar system on your home or commercial property is considered a construction upgrade to your home. A solar system install requires design and engineering, permitting through the City or County and then final inspection through the City or County providing the construction permits. Most solar providers and install teams … [Read more...]
An Update on the Solar Tax Credit
Early 2018 was filled with a lot of rumors, misinformation and flat-out confusion over pending changes to solar with the new administration. One of the largest points of discussion was that of the Solar Tax Credit or Solar Tax Incentives. The bill was renewed in 2015 by Congress – as it was seen as a landmark initiative to support the … [Read more...]