FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Solar panels work by absorbing sunlight with photovoltaic cells, generating direct current (DC) energy and then converting it to usable alternating current (AC) energy with the help of inverter technology. AC energy then flows through the home's electrical panel and is distributed accordingly.

While the winter months provide the fewest amount of hours of sunlight (and thus the lowest amount of potential solar production), it’s important to note that the goal of your solar energy system is to offset your energy usage over an entire year, not any given day, week, or month. In the sunnier summer months, your system can generate more energy than you use, generating electric bill credits. In the cloudier, winter months, your system may generate less energy than you use, and you can use the credits you generated during the summer. And that is why solar is very viable in Pennsylvania — just like it is in Michigan and Ohio, our two other northern markets.

So the good news is that a properly installed photovoltaic system won't damage your roof or void your roof's warranty. In fact, solar panels can make your roof last longer by shielding it from temperature extremes and sun damage. And, if the property has enough acreage, the customer may go with a ground mount.

Net metering is the policy that allows people with solar to get a credit on their electric bill for the energy they produce from their system. Also, Solar renewable energy credits (SRECs), also called alternative energy credits in Pennsylvania, may help customers finance and invest in a solar system. SRECs

A common concern for homeowners who are considering solar is, “What happens if I move after installing solar panels?” A typical solar panel system lasts for 25 to 30 years. If you don’t plan on owning their house for that long, you may wonder if solar still makes sense. The good news is that solar increases the value of your property and can actually expedite the process of selling the property when the time comes. The housing market is filled with buyers excited by the prospect of acquiring a solar home that comes with the benefit of zero utility bills.