Solar Energy Systems are more than a Green Technology. They provide life-sustaining, clean energy without the large, nasty carbon footprint of traditional sources. Solar panels are more affordable than ever too. With little money up-front you can ensure your family’s energy needs are met for the future. With beautiful and sleek solar energy for your home you can reduce or eliminate your energy dependence, ensuring that rising utility rates will have little effect on your family.

As an experienced Solar Energy Contractor in Arizona, Salt River Solar & Wind hears quite a few questions regarding solar power and installation. Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions, along with answers, that we have compiled to help you better understand solar energy, its benefits, and its affordability.

Does a Solar Energy System make power all year?
Yes. Solar energy panels produce power all year, provided that sunlight reaches them. It is best to have an experienced solar electrical designer plan a system for optimal performance. An experienced designer understands the many variables affecting system efficiency, such as seasonal angles of the sun, storm patterns in your region, and permitting requirements.

How does a Solar Lease work?
Solar lease options vary by company. Some are pre-paid with little upfront, while others are based on monthly payments. Salt River Solar and Wind specializes in making solar more affordable by incorporating as many solar incentives as possible for each project using innovative solar leasing programs. For more information regarding our solar leasing options in Arizona, visit our Arizona Solar Lease page.

How does Net Metering work?
NET METERING is a way of crediting you for excess energy produced by your solar system. For example, if your monthly kilowatt usage in December is less than the amount of energy produced by your solar system in December, then the excess energy produced is fed back into the grid, and credited to your next utility bill for future energy use. Policies vary depending on jurisdiction and utility provider.

Will rain reduce my solar system’s production?
Rain itself does not harm solar panels but does reduce electricity production a little, as do clouds, which shade panels from the direct sunlight required for peak performance. Nevertheless, solar irradiance enables electricity generating regardless, albeit reduced. With over 300 days of sunlight in Arizona each year, this is less of a concern for us. Our arid climate is ideal for solar energy production.

Does shade effect a solar energy system’s power production?
Shade is not good for solar power production. Even the slightest amount of shade can reduce production significantly. For example, a tree limb hanging over your panels, partially shading them, can reduce production by quite a bit. In the northern hemisphere, higher latitudes receive considerably less sunlight during the winter than lower latitudes, resulting in less energy production as well. Typically, the summer is the best season for generating solar electricity because of the angle of the Earth in relation to the Sun. Skilled system designers take this into account when planning a solar energy system. Another consideration is the aridity of the climate. A region receiving more moisture will have more cloudy days than an arid counterpart, resulting in less sunlight over the course of a year.

Where is the best location for solar energy production?
From a regional perspective an arid climate, close to the equator is best, as less cloudy days and the direct angle of sunlight provide prime conditions for solar generating. From a financial perspective places with the best solar and renewable energy incentives tend to be more promising, drawing more installation companies and investors, effectively optimizing supply chains and business models in promotion of more affordable solar options. Arizona is a great location from both perspectives; with over 300 days of sunshine per year as well as a moderate latitude, and great financial incentives, Arizona residents garner a significant return-on-investment in a relatively short period.
When considering the design of a solar energy system for your home or business, including panel and inverter placement, it is best to have an experienced electrical engineer design your system. Salt River Solar & Wind engineers design custom solutions to fit the architecture of your site while providing optimal energy production.

Will my HOA approve a Solar Power system?
Yes. We work with HOAs across the state of Arizona producing beautiful designs, accepted by even the most vigilant Homeowners Associations. Plus, A. R.S. § 33-1816 – Arizona law protects individual homeowners’ private property rights to solar access by dissolving any local covenant, restriction or condition attached to a property deed that restricts the use of solar energy.

Will Solar look good on my home?
Yes. Modern solar energy panels are sleek and beautiful. A skilled system designer can conceptualize a solar power system that compliments your home’s architecture.

Salt River Solar & Wind has installed more watts of residential Solar Energy in Arizona than any other Arizona Solar Company. We have many options for you to choose from, including solar purchasing, solar leasing, rebate/tax help, and many pre-solar ideas as well as a variety of solar manufacturers for you to choose from. We can customize a solution to fit your unique needs, at an affordable price.