Basic information about solar electric systems
Q: What is a solar electric system?
A: A solar electric (also referred to as solar photovoltaic) system converts sunlight
directly to electricity and is typically mounted on your roof. They will provide electricity for
your home or business and work any time the sun is shining. Solar electricity is a clean, renewable
source of energy!
Q: How does a solar electric system generate electricity?
A: A solar electric system has three components that work together to generate electricity:
- Solar panels: Sunlight strikes the panels on your roof.
- Inverter: The panels are connected to an inverter. An inverter is required because the panels
produce DC electricity but the appliances in your home use AC electricity. An inverter converts
the DC electricity to AC electricity.
- Batteries (optional): To store energy in case of a power outage.
Q: Do I still have electricity when there is no sunlight?
A: Yes, if you are interconnected with SRP's electrical grid, we are providing
you electricity for your home or business when your solar electric system is not generating
electricity.
Q: How much electricity will a 1 kW, 2 kW or 3 kW system produce?
A: Typically, solar electric systems produce 1,600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year per kilowatt
(kW). This means that a 1 kW system will produce 133 kWh/month, a 2 kW system will produce 266 kWh/month,
and a 3 kW system will produce 400 kWh/month. Systems will vary in the level of output based on the solar
panels and inverter that you select. It is recommended to contact a local solar contractor for more
information regarding solar electric system output.
Q: Can SRP recommend a solar contractor?
A: SRP does not provide referrals to individual contractors. We provide a list of
organizations that may recommend contractors on our installation
information page.
Q: How do I know what size system to select for my home or business?
A: First, you need to consider how much of your total electricity usage you would like to be
produced from a solar electric system. For example, a 3 kW system will produce 400 kWh/month; where the
average residential customer uses 1500 kWh/month. This would mean that 27% of your electricity would be
provided by the solar electric system. Likewise, a 10 kW system will produce 1,333 kWh/month; where the
average commercial customer utilizes 7,500 kWh/month. This would mean that 18% of your electricity would be
provided by the solar electric system. A local solar contractor can help you select a system that will meet
your needs and our program requirements.
Q: How long will my solar electric system last?
A: Most systems last 20 years or more with proper maintenance. Panels typically have a
one-year warranty for workmanship and 20 to 25 year warranty for performance. Inverters are typically
warranted for a period of five to 10 years. SRP recommends reviewing warranties with solar equipment
retailers before selecting a particular system.
Q: Do solar systems require maintenance?
A: Solar electric and solar water heating systems are, for the most part, passive systems.
However, to keep them working at optimal performance it is recommended to keep the panels clear of dust and
debris - this can be accomplished by taking a hose and spraying down the panels. It is advisable to consult
manufactures for further questions regarding maintenance of solar energy systems.
Q: What are the benefits to having a solar energy system?
A:
- Save money every month by lowering your electric bills.
- Utilize free energy from the sun to reduce the effect of utility cost increases.
- Enjoy energy independence by becoming your own power producer.
- Protect the environment by using clean, renewable energy in your home.
Q: What other considerations should I know before purchasing a solar energy system?
A: Prior to installing a solar energy system, please take the following considerations into
account:
- Solar technologies have high initial costs. Purchasing a solar electric or solar water heating
system is like paying for your electric bills upfront.
- It is important to take into consideration the amount of solar variation when the sun is not
shining during evening/nighttime hours or during cloudy weather conditions. Also, it is a good idea
to look at your property. Do you notice any large trees or other obstructions that may cause shading
on your solar panels?
- Depending on the mounting method, some systems may impact roof warranties and home insurance
policies.
- Homeowner association rules may affect system selection and mounting. It is advisable to review
these documents with your association before installing a system.
