HOW SOLAR ENERGY WORKS
Don't be nervous to ask the questions that matter to you. We're here to help make solar as simple as possible.
How Does All This Work Anyway?
The sun is billions of years old, but only since the 1950s have humans been able to unlock its electricity-generating potential. Since then, solar panel manufacturing and performance have become increasingly efficient, meaning homeowners can now easily have solar for their home and enjoy the amazing benefits like never before.
01. Sunlight contains an abundance of energy we can harness.
Ever wonder why humans get sunburnt? Sunlight contains a remarkable amount of energy, and sunburns are caused by too much exposure to it. Solar panels work similarly, but instead of “burning” as our skin does, solar panels are designed to absorb sunlight and use it to generate a flow of electricity.
02. Solar cells harness the sun’s energy to produce electricity.
Solar panels are simply a collection of many tiny solar cells that use sunlight to create electricity! As the solar cells absorb energy, the atoms within get excited, and the movement of their electrons creates an electric current that can be converted to usable energy.
03. Electricity is converted into a usable form.
Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity, meaning that it flows in one direction. However, our homes use a different type of electricity: Alternating current (AC). A device called an inverter transforms DC into AC electricity. Your electrical panel can then distribute this electricity throughout your home just like normal.
04. Your utility meter monitors your energy usage.
When your panels generate more electricity than you need, any excess power can be fed to the grid. Your utility meter provides a safe and accurate way to monitor the flow of electricity into and out of your home. In most cases, homeowners can earn credits for excess energy that your home delivers to the grid throughout the day.
Solar Myths
MYTH
Solar panels don't function on cloudy days.
FALSE
It's true that solar panels won't generate as much electricity on a cloudy day as it will on a sunny day, but your solar panels will definitely continue to generate a moderately reduced amount of electricity on even the cloudiest day. Although we can’t control the weather, our designs incorporate past weather models for over a decade to accurately account for less sunny days.
MYTH
Solar panels require constant maintenance.
FALSE
Quality solar installations are designed to be durable and virtually maintenance-free. Choosing the right solar partner is vital to ensure there's nothing to worry about for years to come. Although many companies boast a production guarantee through the manufacturer, Palmetto Direct goes beyond with an industry-leading 25-year production and parts warranty on all panels, inverters, and racking.
MYTH
The price of going solar is prohibitive.
FALSE
Solar panels are less expensive now than they have ever been, and many homeowners see savings from the very first month. Many homeowners are unaware that there are federal, state, and utility incentives available that allow families to go solar for zero out-of-pocket. Power Purchase Agreements and Solar Leases exist in many states that even allow customers to go solar without even purchasing a system. When you factor in increased value of your house, you'll find that solar panels will start saving you money sooner than you ever thought possible.
MYTH
I need a battery for a solar system to work.
FALSE
As your panels convert sunshine to electricity, power flows through your home just like normal. Excess energy is sent back to your utility company and in most utilities you get to pull that excess back at no cost. This means a solar system can actually provide electricity 24 hours per day, even when the sun isn’t shining. Batteries are available for utilities who don’t participate in net metering or homeowners who want emergency backup.
MYTH
Installing solar panels will damage my roof.
FALSE
Some hesitate to install solar because they worry about possible damage. Luckily, damage from installing solar is extremely rare. For one, solar installation companies inspect roofs before installing often requiring an engineering and structural review. Any holes required are flashed and sealed to prevent any possible roof leaks. Installers also provide a workmanship warranty to protect you on the off chance that damage occurs due to the installation work.
MYTH
I'll need to change my lifestyle if we go solar.
FALSE
Not at all. Today’s solar systems will power all your home’s electrical systems including lights, entertainment systems, cooling and heating, and all your appliances. Systems are designed to blend easily into both modern homes just as well as those built years ago. Your home will operate just like normal, and your appliances will never know the difference.
MYTH
Solar panels can be visually intrusive.
FALSE
Not at all. Today’s solar systems will power all your home’s electrical systems including lights, entertainment systems, cooling and heating, and all your appliances. Systems are designed to blend easily into both modern homes just as well as those built years ago. Your home will operate just like normal, and your appliances will never know the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of going solar?
Switching to solar has many benefits, some immediate, and some realized over the course of owning your system. These benefits include lifetime savings on your energy costs as well as reduced pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
How does going solar save me money?
The cost of electricity is always on the rise. When you switch to solar, you own your own generating station. As the electric company raises their rates, your affordable solar payment stays the same. Once your system is paid in full, you'll continue to generate electricity for your home at no cost!
Do solar panels require a lot of maintenance?
Solar panels require very little maintenance. You don’t even have to wash your panels. Normally natural patterns of wind and rainfall will do most of the work. Each customer also receives a 25-year manufacturer warranty and production guarantee, as well as an industry-leading 10-year workmanship warranty. Palmetto Direct even offers a 3rd party insurance to protect customers to the fullest extent.
How would I pay for my solar system?
Going solar has never been easier, and there are options for every budget. These options include purchasing your system in cash, financing your solar system, or using a solar lease/power purchase agreement (PPA). All three are great options, but each could benefit your specific situation differently. Learn more by scheduling a consultation today.
What if I plan on moving?
If you already own a home with a solar system, your in luck! Solar homes have proven to sell at a premium. Most commonly, solar owners either include the value of the system in the purchase price of the home, or can frequently transfer the finance or lease agreement to the new homeowner.
Can I have solar if I have an HOA?
Many HOA communities have embraced solar for their residents as a way for homeowners to reduce their energy costs. Some states have even adopted policies prohibiting HOA's from preventing solar. Palmetto Direct communicates and works with HOA's by providing technical data, manuals, and engineering sheets as a service to all our clients.
Do I need a new roof to install solar?
In most cases a new roof isn’t necessary. Solar panels can even prolong the life of existing shingles since they protect the underlying shingles from the elements going forwards. If a new roof is needed, don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Palmetto Direct's roofing partnerships can handle any size project, and the best part is that the federal tax credit can even help pay for part of your new roof.
Can I store excess energy?
Excess energy produced by your solar panels during the day is sent to the utility grid. You receive the power back at night after the sun has gone down. Palmetto Direct is also very excited to offer battery options in certain areas for customers who would like to store some of their own energy as well.
Will solar panels affect the value of my home?
Depending on how you add solar to your home (i.e. purchase, lease, or PPA) studies have shown that installing solar panels immediately adds value to your home and can help it sell faster. Don’t take our word for it, read about it in this Study by Zillow here.
What happens if the power goes out?
If the power goes out in your area, systems tied to the grid go out as well. It’s not safe to send power into the grid when workers are attempting to fix a power outage problem. Adding a home battery can give you a limited amount of power to specific items within your home.