From Guest Blogger Tom Grant: Residential Solar Power: Answers to Your Common Questions

Although the news may be filled with headlines about solar energy, solar incentives, and the benefits of going solar, many homeowners still have lots of questions about solar power, how it works, and the cost of its installation.  Solar is an ideal way to power your home.  Once you understand how this form of energy works and how it can save you money while providing reliable electricity, you’ll want to make the switch to solar energy.  In addition, solar is a clean energy that is as good for your home as it is for the environment.

How Does a Solar System Work?

Solar panels are mounted on the home in an optimum position for catching sunlight.  Each panel is made up of solar cells.  These cells have the technology to directly convert sunrays into electricity that can be used to power your home.  Depending on the system you choose, you may be on or off the utility grid.  Many solar energy users do remain linked to the grid.

Can a Solar System Provide Complete Power?

Yes, solar systems can typically provide a household with enough energy to power its daily needs.  On the other hand, many homeowners prefer to have grid backup or at least retain grid connectivity so that they can supply the grid with excess energy for profit.  On the other hand, a small solar system can also be used; it may not power the whole house, but it can substantially save the homeowners money on their energy costs.

Is a Solar System Difficult to Install?

Many homeowners choose to have their systems installed professionally so that panels are aligned optimally to catch the sun’s rays and so the home itself and panels are undamaged during the installation process.  So if you live in New Jersey, for instance, you can get solar panel installation in New Jersey to help defray your energy costs and professional installation for an affordable price.

How Much Does a Solar System Cost?

The cost of the solar system is dependent on many things such as whether the system will be connected to the grid or not and if it will have battery back up.  It’s important to note that a federal tax credit will cover thirty percent of the solar system’s cost and most systems pay for themselves within a decade in based on their cost-savings.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need to Meet My Current Energy Needs?

Solar panel experts can help you figure out exactly how many panels you would need to power your home.  Of course, you can get a pretty good idea of the number of panels you would need as well as their cost simply by using a solar calculator or app.

Installing a solar system is a great way to save money.  While there is initial payout, that payout is substantially reduced based on incentives from the federal and state governments.  Moreover, homeowners begin to recoup their costs from the moment they install their new systems and they also have the peace of mind that comes from knowing their energy use does no harm to the environment.