FAQs

Why should I switch to solar?


  • Solar power is a completely renewable, reliable and clean energy source which reduces our reliance on dirty sources of power such as oil, coal and natural gas. Unlike these dirty sources of energy which produce harmful emissions affecting our health and environment, the energy generated has zero environmental effect.
  • Installing residential and commercial solar energy systems serves as an investment in the future of the planet by conserving non-renewable energy sources and protecting the environment.
  • Solar panels and home batteries backup systems are becoming more affordable, accessible, resilient and efficient. Owners of these systems have peace of mind and energy security for when the power goes out or the next storm strikes.
  • Our customers pay predictable and affordable rates until it's paid off then they pay zero.

Can I afford solar?

 

If you can afford to pay your electricity bill you can afford to go solar. Installing solar can reduce your monthly utility bill from day one. There are many financing options available which will keep your monthly payments below your current electric bill. Note: Your utility company will continue to raise rates in the years to come but installing a solar power system will ensure that your electricity payments remain constant over the term of loan then reduce to zero!

Financing Available

What is the return on my investment?

  • Installing a solar energy system can help sell your home faster. On a $270,000 sale price of your home, solar may increase the value by approximately $10,000-$40,000 (depending on the solar panel system size and property location).
  • Solar pays for itself from day one.

What happens if I move or sell my property?



  • You can sell your property and transfer the system to the new owner. If you own your solar energy system, your solar house can sell at a premium and faster. For example, on a $270,000 sale price of your home, solar may increase the value by between $10,000-$40,000 (depending on the solar panel system size and property location).
  • If you own the solar power system, you can take it with you. However, it may cost you to dismantle, transport, and reinstall the system on your new home.
  • If you lease your system You can either:
  • Buy out your lease before you sell your home, or
  • Work with your leasing company to easily transfer the lease agreement to the home's new owner.

If you decide to move, call us and we will find and easy solution based on your preferences.

Is there a government tax credit?

The US government now will give you a 26% tax credit when you install solar. On a $30,000 solar panel system, you will receive $7,800 in tax credits.

What kind of permits are required to install the system? How long will it take?

  • Distribution, utility, city, and HOA (if applicable) approvals may be required.
  • Bright Solar Energy will take care of obtaining all approvals on your behalf.
  • Upon signing to move forward with us, it could take 30 - 60 days to obtain the approvals and complete the installation of your system.
  • After all permits are received, the physical installation can take 1 to 2 days.

What happens to my property tax or insurance?

By state law, if your property value increases due to a renewable energy solution, your property taxes cannot increase.

How do solar panels hold up in hail?

  • The solar cells are made to resist hail and are encased in high strength aluminum frames with 3 to 4 mm thick tempered glass and are about three times stronger than your normal composite shingle.
  • Most solar panels have been designed and tested to withstand up to 1" diameter hail striking perpendicularly to the module at 120+ mph. If solar panels are damaged by hail, they are typically covered under a home or building insurance policy.

How long will my solar panel system last?

  • Solar panels are very durable and capable of withstanding snow, wind, and hail.
  • The various components of your solar power system will need to be replaced at different times, but your system should continue to generate electricity for 40+ years.

What warranties come with the solar panels?

All solar panels are Tier 1 premium panels and are fully warranted by their respective manufacturer and by us for 25-30 years.

Do I need to replace my roof before installing solar?

  • Since these systems are designed to last 35+ years, it can be costly to remove and reinstall them if you need to replace your roof. If your roof needs maintenance in the near term, you should complete it before you finish your solar installation which we can help with because we have been General Contractors for 25 years.
  • One of Bright Solar Energy pre-screened solar installers will be able to tell you whether to replace your roof before going solar.
  • If needed, we can help with insurance company negotiations for repairing or replacing your roof
.

How do I find out how much I pay for electricity?

  • The easiest way to find out how much you pay for electricity (and how much electricity you use per month) is to take a look at your utility electricity bill with us.
  • Your average cost per kW can be calculated by diving your total monthly bill by the total energy consumption for that month.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels absorb the sun's energy throughout the day and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. Most homes and businesses run on alternating current (AC) electricity, so the DC electricity is then passed through an inverter to convert it to usable AC electricity. At that point, you either use the electricity in your house or send it back to the electric grid.

Will I still receive an electric bill if I have solar panels?

  • You will still receive a bill from your utility company unless your solar energy system includes battery storage and you are fully off of the grid.
  • However, you can dramatically reduce your bill, or even cut the amount you owe to $0, with a solar panel system that matches your energy use.

After I install solar panels, what difference will I see?

  • Your lights, air conditioners, refrigerators, and other electrical and electronic appliances will work as before.
  • The only difference you will notice is your savings on electricity. You won't pay a hefty bill every month, and even if your system generates more electricity than you need, you may qualify to sell it to your utility company for a monthly credit (a negative bill!)

How can I sell the electricity that I over produce back to the utility company?

  • Your electric meter keeps track of the electricity you draw (consume from the grid) and also the excess energy that you produce and send to the grid. This is called Net Metering.
  • Net Metering means that your utility company tracks the energy that your produce and send back to the grid and then credits you for that energy each month.

Does my solar panel system work in a blackout?

  • If your solar panel system is connected to the grid, it will shut off in the event of a blackout. This is to prevent emergency responders and electricity utility repair-people from being injured by your panels sending power back to the grid.
  • To avoid blackouts, install a hybrid systems with batteries or a generator. In this system, your everyday energy needs come from your solar system and grid. During a blackout, the batteries or generator meet your needs.