Solar Panel Installation

What is Highlight Solar?

Highlight Solar is a small business that handles all aspects of solar panel installation and monitoring for residential and commercial use. We bring together efficient design, engineering, and installation of solar electric systems better than anyone else in the industry. Highlight Solar is your number one source for solar panel installation in the South Bay.

 

We build a custom solution suited to your personal needs and goals. After analyzing your electricity usage trends, available space, and electric infrastructure, we design and build a system perfect for you. After the solar panel installation, we keep your system efficient and clean with our maintenance and monitoring checkups. We share our monitoring technology with you via an app so that you can always be on top of your energy usage.

 

What is solar energy?

Solar energy is the utilization of the sun’s rays for energy in the form of heat or electricity. The sun’s light is a renewable resource that is quiet, clean, and consistent.

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How much will I save on my utility bills from a solar electric power system?

The answer to this question depends on how much electricity you use regularly and how efficient the appliances you use are. It is normal to generate excess electricity in the summer, when days are longer and more sunlight is available, which can offset the energy you use from the grid in the winter. By using energy efficient appliances and light bulbs, you can reduce your energy bill by over two-thirds. For a free quote on your potential energy savings, contact us at (866) 926-9997 and speak with a knowledgeable solar consultant now.

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Is there a difference between solar electric and solar hot water systems?

The two systems use the same source, solar energy, but convert it into different forms of energy. Solar electric systems convert the sun’s rays into electricity while solar hot water systems convert it into heat.

 

Will I need to maintain the solar energy panels?

Solar electric panels do not require much in the way of maintenance. They do not need to be washed or dusted. However, they do need to be kept free of debris or other forms of shade to be at their most efficient. It is recommended that you wipe them off if it snows or leaves fall on them. Solar hot water collection arrays also do not require maintenance. It would be helpful to use a window wash brush, biodegradable soap, and water to clean the tubes periodically.

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Can I use a financing system?

Yes you can. Solar energy systems can be a great home energy savings upgrade. There are also financial tools that reward you for using solar energy.

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Do I need special insurance requirements?

A standard homeowner’s insurance policy is often enough to meet electric utility requirements. Electric utilities usually require that homeowners who use net metering sign an interconnection agreement.

 

Do I need a building permit to install a solar energy system?

Yes, you will need building permits to install a solar electric system. There will also be building electrical codes to consider. Solar professionals will include the price of permits into cost estimates.

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When should I seek a solar professional?

Solar electric professionals can be just what you need when you are unsure about the type and size of system that is best for you. There can be steps in the installation process that can be confusing at first, at these times a professional can clearly walk you through the process and make sure you understand the options at your disposal.

 

Why is it important to get multiple bids?

Installing a new solar electric system is a major purchase. By getting bids from multiple professionals, you can compare costs and information and have realistic expectations on the design that will work best for you.

 

How can I calculate the cost and payback time from a solar panels installation?

By determining your current energy needs and costs, you can have a clear number on your energy usage. Then you can look at the cost of purchasing and installing a solar electric system, subtracting the federal, state, and local tax credits or rebates that you can take advantage of.

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How long does it usually take to install a solar power system?

The entire process, from the planning stage to the ordering of parts to installation, can take up to a few weeks to complete. The installation process itself can be done in a few days.

 

What do I need to install a grid-tied solar electric system?

There are multiple components you need. A solar electric array will capture the sun’s energy,  an inverter converts that energy from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) which your home can use, and a house utility meter called a net meter will record both the electricity produced and any power you may use off the grid. You will also use wiring and mounts to secure and connect the components.

 

How is a net meter different from other meters?

A net meter is similar to other outdoor meters. The notable feature of a net meter is that it spins both forwards and backwards, recording both the power produced and the power used.

 

Do I need a battery backup?

You likely do not need a backup battery for your solar panels. A backup battery bank can add as much as 40% in cost to s solar electric system. Unless there is a concern about a long utility outage or your residence is in a remote area, a backup battery is not recommended.

 

How much space do I need?

A square foot of a conventional solar electric panel in bright light will yield 10 watts of power. Using this calculation, a 1000 watt system may need 100 and 200 square feet of area, depending on the type of module used.

 

Can a solar panel still work in the shade?

The effectiveness of the solar electric system greatly drops in the shade. By shading the bottom row of wafers, the efficiency is reduced by 80%.