Energy That You Can Rely On
Solar panels are remarkably durable and long-lasting. The use of tempered glass has added years to solar panel life expectancy. Encapsulant is a protective barrier placed on both sides of the solar cell and is used to shield the solar cell from excess UV rays and moisture. Sealants are used to attach the solar cells and encapsulants together. Silicon-based sealants have been proven to be the best option for keeping solar cells protected from the elements.
Where you live contributes to the panel’s lifespan as well. Exposure to high temperatures and humidity for an extended amount of time has shown an increase in a solar panel’s rate of degradation. This results in a shorter lifespan than the expected 25+ years, for solar panels in areas with that type of climate.
There are different levels of quality when it comes to solar panels. Monocrystalline solar panels are the premier solar panels since they have a higher efficiency than Polycrystalline solar panels. You’ll want to invest in panels manufactured from quality materials, such as panels made from silicon sheets. We recommend Renewable Energy Corporation’s (REC) solar panels, which are high-efficiency monocrystalline panels. When purchasing solar panels, be aware of dye-sensitized or organic solar panels since they have a much lower production capacity than silicon photovoltaics.
Solar Panel Components
Solar Inverters: There are two different types of Inverters: string and micro.
- A string inverter has one central inverter that all of the solar panels send their power to.
- A microinverter system uses small, individual inverters on each solar panel that convert their energy into usable power.
A microinverter is usually more efficient since the panels are not connected to one another and cannot affect each other’s efficiency. String inverters also have more parts that can be damaged, so microinverters tend to last longer. A way to increase the efficiency of your string-inverter is to use a power optimizer. This can increase the efficiency of your inverter and can be helpful for roofs with regular shading. The improved efficiency of microinverters does come at a higher cost, so it might not be worth the increased energy production.
Electric Meters: A bi-directional utility meter is used for homes with solar panels. This is because of its ability to track how much power you are drawing from the grid vs how much energy you are sending into the grid. The life expectancy is 10+ years. Make sure to ask your installer how to read your meter.
Roof Racking: Racking can make the difference between a water-tight seal or roof damage. When you are looking into a racking system, make sure to invest in flashing hardware. This protects the most vulnerable part of your roof from moisture. This can potentially save you thousands down the road. Check out this video to learn how roof flashing works!
Solar Batteries: A high-capacity storage battery is an option for homeowners that want additional energy security for their solar system. While not a required component of a home solar system, a battery can provide backup power in instances where solar power is unavailable or the main power grid is offline. If you choose to invest in a battery, just know that their longevity is related to how frequently they charge and discharge. As long as the battery is operated correctly, it should easily live up to the 10-15 year life expectancy.
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Get My Free QuoteAdvantages of Investing in Solar Power
Here are some of the benefits of having a solar energy system that lasts for 25+ years:
Return on Investment
When your solar energy system is built to last, this gives you time to build up a return on your investment. Let’s go through a breakdown of the components that are involved in determining your payback period.
- Gross cost of your solar panel system: This varies depending on the size of the system and the equipment used.
- Upfront financial incentives: Did you receive any tax breaks or rebates that helped lower the cost of your solar system? Federal, state, and local incentives all exist.
- Monthly electricity usage: How much electricity do you use every month? If your electricity bill is high, then your payback period is going to be reduced because your panels will be eliminating your energy bill or substantially reducing it.
- Electricity generation: There are many variables that impact how much electricity your solar panels will produce such as roof size, season, and weather. The amount of electricity your solar panels produce will depend on the design of your solar system.
- Additional incentives: Many electricity companies give you a per kilowatt-hour credit for the electricity your solar panels produce. This can be a monetary benefit.
There are many factors to consider when calculating how long it will take to see your return. However, rest assured, in time you will hit your payback period and your solar system will have paid for itself. At that point, you can kick back and enjoy your savings.
Easy to Maintain
The long-term benefits of solar include a low maintenance system. Solar panels are very easy to take care of and only need to be cleaned 2-3 times a year with a leaf blower or water hose. Going solar makes it easy to produce your own power.
Mae and Lee - Virginia
Mae and Lee, a couple from VA saved $7,665 by taking advantage of the federal solar tax credit when they purchased their solar system in 2020
Choose an Energy Source that Lasts
Now that we have done our research on the reliability of solar panels, let’s talk about the source. Solar panels obtain their energy from the Sun, the most reliable source of energy in the world. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy its power “is nearly limitless”.
Going solar has many long-term benefits. There are many warranties available for your solar energy system. Solar loans have consistent monthly energy payments so your bill will never go up. Solar panels receive their energy from a powerful and endless energy source, the Sun.
Contact us to learn more about the long-term benefits of solar energy.
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