AMERICAN ENERGY AND SOLAR FAQ
SOLAR PANEL BASICS
What are solar panels?
Simply put, solar panels turn sunlight into usable electricity.
How do Solar Panels work?
This is known as the “photovoltaic effect.” The top layer of the photovoltaic cell is seeded with phosphorous that is electron rich, resulting in a more negative charge. The bottom layer is seeded with boron, which results in less electron, and more positive charge. This allows for a positively and negatively charged semiconductive layers, creating an electric field. When light hits the top layer of the panel, electrons are displaced between the two layers and a flow of electricity is created.
This electric field forces the drifting electrons to flow in a certain direction- towards the conductive metal plates that line the cell. This flow is known as an energy current, and the strength of the current determines how much electricity each cell can produce. Once the loose electrons hit metal plates, the current is then directed into wires, allowing the flow of electrons out of the panel.
So, solar panels work by absorbing sunlight with photovoltaic cells, generating direct current (DC) energy. DC energy is then converted to usable alternating current (AC) energy through the use of the panel’s Inverter. AC energy then flows through the home’s electrical panel and is distributed accordingly.
Basic Lifecycle of energy in a Solar Panel:
- Photovoltaic cells absorb the sun’s energy and convert it to DC electricity
- The solar inverter converts DC electricity from your solar modules to AC electricity through the help of a solar inverter, which is used by most home appliances
- Electricity flows through your home, powering electronic devices
- Excess electricity produced by solar panels is fed to the electric grid
Do solar panels work at night?
Solar Panels do not produce electricity at night. Instead, they continue to provide power through net metering. Net metering is when surplus energy produced by your solar system is transferred back to the public utility power grid, giving you some sort of credit in return. This credit can then be applied to your energy usage at night, when you are dependent on the public utility grid for energy. In most cases, a households energy usage at night is minimal, and you will be able to further capitalize on the utility credits that built up during the day.
What is Solar Energy?
Solar Energy is a renewable resource utilizing sun radiation and turning into usable energy.
Who is the largest producer of solar energy?
China is the largest producer of Solar Energy as of 2020. China accounts for one-third of the global installed solar capacity.
Can 100% renewable energy power the world?
There is multiple statistics and studies that suggest transferring the world to 100% renewable energy is plausible and affordable by 2050.
What state uses the most solar energy?
In the United States, California is the state with the largest solar energy output.
Can solar energy power the United States?
Between land and rooftops, there is more than enough space to build all the solar panels necessary to power the United States. Realistically, though, the future of clean energy won’t be entirely solar. Hydro, geothermal, and, particularly, wind, will contribute their fair share as well. But, if we want to move quickly, solar is the fastest path to clean energy. It can be installed as small, easier-to-finance projects. It can be built faster than any other kind of energy. Solar’s small footprint projects are easier to permit and there are more places to put them.
How many solar panels would it take to power a house? How big does a solar system need to be to power a house?
How long do solar panels last?
Do solar panels degrade over time?
Will solar panels work in an overcast climate?
Do solar panels cause my roof to deteriorate?
No, AES solar panels are not attached directly to our customers roof, thus protecting the underlining roof and protecting it from any environmental damage.
Will installing solar panels damage your roof?
It shouldn’t. Most solar systems are not installed directly into your roof, but on a metal rack.
The panels can actually help shield your roof and prevent environmental damage.
Do solar panels work when the grid goes down?
Solar panels absorb solar energy and create direct current electricity. Direct Current, or DC, energy is then converted to Alternate Current, or AC, energy that can be used in the home through the inverter.
Solar panels cannot serve as a backup if AC electricity goes out during certain events like inclement weather.
Solar Panels can also not be used in the case of a power outage. This is done to protect the utility repairmen working to restore your sectors power. Otherwise, the back feed of electricity to your public utility grid from your panels surplus energy could be fatal to repairmen working to repair the grid.
Will I receive a credit for my extra energy production?
With net metering, the excess energy your home produces covers the times when you don’t produce enough (at night for example). When your solar system generates more power than you use during the course of a month, your utility bill will receive a credit dependent on the amount of energy transferred back to the public grid.
What determines if your home is a good candidate for solar?
An onsite inspection is typical before any solar panel installation. This is done to make sure your roof top incompatible and a good fit for solar equipment. During such inspections, professionals evaluate…
- Roof size, pitch and direction
- Shading of the roof caused by tree branches, other homes, etc.
- Roof obstructions such as chimneys, pipes, etc.
- Roof stability and strength
- Electrical wiring
What is the difference between grid tiered and off grid PV panels?
PV panels (Solar Panels) capture the suns energy and convert it into usable electricity. The most common PV panel system is the grid-connected system. In other words, most solar systems are connected to the national grid. With this type of system, you have the option of consuming the electricity supplied by your local grid at night when your panels are not working to convert sunlight into electricity. Moreover, if your system generates more electricity than consumed by your household, you can sell the surplus back to the grid, effectively making a profit from your panel installation.
The second type of PV panel system is the stand-alone system, or off-grid PV system. The off-grid PV system is one that is not connected to the national grid. In this instance, homeowners would add solar batteries to the system so electricity can be stored and later used during night-time hours. This type of system can be very useful in remote areas where there is no alternative source of electricity.
What is the warranty on a solar energy system and how long do they last?
Solar systems have two warranties; a performance and equipment guarantee. A solar panel’s performance warranty typically guarantees 90% efficiency the first ten years, and 80% at thirty years. An equipment warranty will typically guarantee 10-12 years without falling.
How much does a solar panel weigh and how big is your typical solar panel?
AES solar panels typically weigh approximately 40 pounds and are 65 x 40 x 1.5 inches. To get more information about your solar system and corresponding panel metrics, talk to your solar system provider!
SOLAR TERMS
Who is AES?
American Energy and Solar (AES) is a Las Vegas-based consumer-focused aggregator of renewable solar energy solutions and finance.
Through our proprietary Energy Freedom Program, we have created a comprehensive residential energy package that flips traditional solar financing to truly benefit the consumer. We provide you with top of line solar panels at an accessible price. Check out our solar calculator to get an idea on your solar system cost and how much you could save. Take the first step to lower your energy bill and overall monthly payments.
What is a solar radiation?
Solar Radiation is just another word for sunlight. It’s the light admitted from the sun, that feeds the world energy.
What is Energy Conservation?
Energy Conservation is the effort made to reduce energy consumption to better the environment.
What does photovoltaic mean?
Photovoltaic simply means they convert sunlight into electricity.
Solar Panels are made up of many smaller units called photovoltaic cells.
What is a solar loan?
Similar to a home improvement loan, the homeowner borrows money from a lender, either a bank or a solar company, and then pays it back with interests through monthly installments.
Through AES, we couple your solar loan with your current home mortgage balance. Taking advantage of todays low interest rates, our clients enjoy a brand new solar system with a lower monthly mortgage payment, a non-existent energy bill, and higher home value.
What are ``Time of Use`` rates?
There are “peak” hours in the day, where electricity usage is at a all time high, which puts a ton of stress on your local grid, and forces utilities to turn to natural gas and fossil fuels to meet the demand, thus exacerbating any subsequent climate issues. In order to incentivize customers to use less energy during these “peak” hours, many utilities are implementing “Time of Use” rates, or TOU rates.
Under TOU rates, utilities charge customers based on how much and when they us power from the public utility grid. TOU rates commonly vary between weekdays and weekends. Electricity used during peak time is billed at a higher rate than electricity used during off peak times, creating an incentive for homeowners to lower energy usage during peak times.
What is Net Metering?
Net metering refers to an electrical billing mechanism that allows consumers to use the excess energy generated from their solar panels to their overall electricity bill. As a result, their electrical bill would be less since they are consuming less energy overall in the system.
What are Solar Blockers?
Solar blockers are any obstruction on the panel that deters the path of light. Anything that blocks the lights path to the solar cell will reduce the amount of energy your panels can provide. Some common solar blockers include dust, leaves, water, and bird droppings. NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) analysis reports illustrated a potential 30% energy yield loss per year when the solar cells were not cleaned routinely.
Using improper equipment can also add obstruction to your solar panel. Any dust or streaking can cause shadows which will reduce the effectiveness of your panels.
What is a Solar Calculator?
A solar power calculator is to quickly estimate your savings after transitioning to solar.
American Energy and Solar (AES), a Las Vegas based solar agency, has created its own Solar Power Calculator that includes metrics if the home owner was to refinance their current home loan into their solar panel loan. The result is lower month mortgage payment, with a better interest rate, and no energy bill.
AES takes advantage of today’s low interest rates and couples your remaining home mortgage with your solar loan. The result is a lower monthly mortgage payment and a negligible energy bill, saving you $$$. Our refinance program gives you financial freedom while adding value to your home with state-of-the-art equipment that will optimize your household energy usage and reduce your carbon footprint.
Calculate your savings today.
What is a Home Assessment?
Home assessments are a type of home audit to see if your home will be a good fit for a solar system installation. During these audits, professionals will inspect your roof, the surrounding foundation, your electrical system and more! talk to your assessment auditor for more details.
What is a Home Assessment?
Home assessments are a type of home audit to see if your home will be a good fit for a solar system installation. During these audits, professionals will inspect your roof, the surrounding foundation, your electrical system and more! talk to your assessment auditor for more details.
How long does a Home Assessment usually take?
Home assessments can range from 1-3 hours depending on the complexities of the home.
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
What are the different components of a solar powered system?
- solar battery
- solar inverter
- metal rack
- solar panel (which consists of a layer of photovoltaic cells, a metal frame, glass casing and metal wiring)
What are the different types of solar panels?
There are three predominant types of solar panels on the market today. Silicon can come in a number of different cell structures:
- Single Cell (Monocrystalline)
- Multiple Cell (Polycrystalline)
- Amorphous (Non-crystalline)
Monocrystalline solar panels are produced from one large silicon block. These types of solar panels are the oldest and are the most developed. Since they are cut from a single source, Monocrystalline silicon cells are more efficient than polycrystalline and amorphous solar cells. Producing Monocrystalline wafers is more labor intensive, and consequently, more expensive to manufacture. These panel types have a more distinct black aesthetic and are often contain a sleek look.
Polycrystalline solar panels are a newer development and are made of silicon cells melted together. Many silicon molecules are melted and then refused together into the panel itself. Polycrystalline cells are less efficient than monocrystalline cells but are also slightly less expensive. These solar cells generally have a distinct blueish hue.
Amorphous silicon panels create flexible solar panel materials that are often used in thin solar panels. Amorphous silicon cells are nanocrystalline and instead are attached to a substrate like glass, plastic, or metal. This feature allows the panels to be lean and bendable, unlike the standard panel. Amorphous panels seem to be the least efficient and least expensive panel type.
Besides appearance and the manufacturing, cost and efficiency are important factors to consider when purchasing solar panels. Understanding the differences is important when getting solar panels that suite your needs and your home.
To read more about the different solar types, check out AES’s solar article, ‘Types of Solar Panels‘
What are Solar Batteries?
A solar battery is simply a battery charged with energy from solar panels.
Installing solar battery storage for excess electricity generated by your panels is a great way to improve your electricity generation performance throughout the day.
Some Advantages of Solar Batteries Include:
- Increased Energy Storage
One of the biggest caveats with solar systems is its inability to produce electricity at night. On a typical PV system, the electricity generated for the home at night comes from their national grid (this is specifically for grid-tiered solar systems), adding to the energy bill. A battery allows for excess solar storage, thus never needing energy supplied from the national grid.
- Increased Energy Security
The ability to store energy allows you to be less dependent on the grid for additional power. If you live in a place that experiences frequent brownouts or has a decaying energy infrastructure, solar batteries can help insulate you from the consequences of poor grid management. You move to greater self-sufficiency and are more in control of your energy destiny. This is great for people who are in remote areas where electricity is less accessible or for those looking to get off the grid.
- Environmentally Friendly
The national grid generates most of its electricity from coal power plants and other fossil fuels. By completely transferring to solar energy production, you are using the most environmentally friendly energy on market today. Your solar power system will continue to use fewer resources throughout the year while producing little to no waste and pollution. Because of advances in photovoltaic technology, panels create less pollution than fossil fuels during their comparative lifetime uses.
- Smaller Electricity Bill
As you become less dependent on grid energy sources, your energy bill will drastically decrease. After switching to solar, many homeowners see a drastic decrease in their energy bill, while others see their energy bill completely disappear. For others, their system generates more power than they can consume. In these circumstances, the homeowner has the option of selling their excess electricity to the national grid, thus making more money off their solar system. For more information Solar Batteries, check out AES article on The Benefits of Solar Batteries.
What are the different types of inverters?
String Inverters are the most popular and affordable inverter option. These panels have high efficiency but start to lack in performance when panels are placed in shady areas, and work best when the roofs ideal for solar installation. With string inverters, panels in the same string must have the same orientation so that each has the same power output.
Micro Inverters and Power Optimizers maintain performance in shaded areas and on stubborn roof layouts that force different orientations of the solar cells (with complicated solar panel arrays). Microinverters and Power optimizers require more electrical components and thus repairing the inverter damaged becomes more of a complex chore than with string inverters. These inverters usually allow the monitoring of performance of individual solar panels, usually through some app. This makes the quick identification and troubleshooting of problems easier. Its for these reasons that these inverters come at a higher cost. Also, with a higher degree of complexity comes more potential points for breakdown and the maintenance and replacement of different aspects of the machine might be less straight forward than those with string inverters.
With a string inverter, the power generated is dependent on how the solar panels perform. If one solar panel starts to underperform, the system loses the ability to produce a significant amount of power. This is not the case for microinverters and power optimizers that would ensure a substantial amount of power for the home, even if the system is underperforming.
Spending the additional money for microinverters or power optimizers isn’t always necessary. They are the best option where partial shading or a complicated roof would negatively impact solar panel system performance. If you have an uncomplicated, unshaded roof, a string inverter can provide better value. You should always shop around and compare the cost and savings associated with various equipment options and their cost and savings.
For more quality information, read our guide on solar inverters.
SOLAR MAINTENANCE
Will I ever need to replace my solar panel?
Most panels last past 20-25 years of use, so its unlikely that you will need to get replacements panels for your currently solar system. Solar panels have been designed to prepare for exposure to harsh outdoor elements. Solar Panels are also relatively simple, with no moving parts. So it is rare that expensive repair and replacement is necessary. If cracks or breaks do emerge, it is typically best to get a maintenance service to come and assess them.
Check out our Solar Maintenance Guide for more info on solar panel maintenance.
How much maintenance does my solar system need?
Solar Panels require little maintenance. In order to maintain efficiently, Solar Panels will need to be cleaned routinely by either the homeowner or third party services.
Why is it important to clean your solar panels?
By not keeping on top of general solar panel maintenance you run the risk of losing panel efficiency. You could be losing up to the following percentages per quarter, if cleaning isn’t on your agenda:
After 3 Months: 5% Energy Loss
After 6 Months: 10% Energy Loss
After 9 Months: 15% Energy Loss
After 12 Months: 20% Energy Loss
After 24 Months: 35% Energy Loss
Long story short, not keeping up with general solar panel maintenance costs you money.
How often should I clean my solar panels?
This will vary depending on the environment you are in. For example, if you live in Las Vegas, you will most likely need to clean your system more often due to the accumulation of excessive dust and grime. This would also be the case if you live next to large trees that increase the likelihood of debris or bird droppings falling onto your solar panels.
Note: Another thing to consider is the angle of your solar panel array. Flat panels will need more upkeep, as water can pool up and leave a muddy residue when it evaporates. Angled panels take advantage of rain running across them to clean them.
What's the cost associated with cleaning my solar panels?
Pro-Tip: If possible, clean solar panels on level ground if you decide to do it yourself.
When should I clean my solar panels?
What cleaning products should I use to clean my solar panels?
What materials should I avoid?
- Avoid using any type of metals, or harsh abrasive products to help remove debris from your solar system.
- Avoid using detergents if possible, as these can streak the glass solar panel.
- Avoid using high pressure tools that could potentially cause damage.
Clean your solar panels routinely to maintain max efficiency. Keep in mind the type of environment you live in; if you live in a heavily polluted area, you may need to break out the garden hose more often to clean your panels.
Don’t be a hero, try to keep your feet on the ground unless absolutely necessary.
If something is not budging or you need to clean a whole lot of grime and bird poop off the array, then follow the safety precautions and get up there when it’s a cool day or preferably in the morning.
Use a sponge with a non-abrasive liquid to clean the area gently. Avoid metals, harsh abrasive products, detergents and high-pressure equipment. Any damage made to the glass will directly affect the efficiency of your solar cell.
INSTALLING SOLAR
How long do solar panels take to install?
The actual installment of your solar system should take no more than 6 hours. The entire process of going solar, however, may take a bit more time.
What are steps associated with solar panel installation?
Installing solar panels doesn’t happen overnight – there’s a process for what needs to happen to get your panels ready to begin powering your home. Overall, from the day you sign your contract with your installer, it will typically take between one and three months before your solar panels are grid-connected and producing energy for your home. There are five major steps to a solar installation that your chosen solar company will generally follow.
- The Initial Site Visit
- Permit Application
- Equipment purchase
- Solar Panel Installation
- Final Approval
The Initial Site Visit
Before you sign your contract, the installer will typically visit your home and evaluate your property to consider the potential system size, roof type, roof angle, shading, general environment, etc. In some cases, the installer will take pictures of your home to show the licensed engineer associated with the company. If the engineer feels comfortable signing off on the project without coming onsite to evaluate your home, then no further onsite visits are necessary. Otherwise, after you sign the contract, an engineer will need to make a second visit to your home.
After you sign the initial contract agreement, an engineer will also come to the property to evaluate your home. These engineers typically evaluate the electrical panel of your home, the condition of your roof, its surrounding structure, and ensure the system discussed in your initial agreement is compatible with your home. Engineers typically work hand in hand with the installer, but can be contracted independently. Talk to the engineer for more information and details regarding the onsite visit. The engineer will inform the installer of the details for surrounding their onsite audit, and you will be informed of any upgrades that need to be done before the solar panel installation can take place.
Permit Application
As with any big purchase, there is a ton of paperwork that needs to be filled out. Luckily, the installer will take care of the majority of the paperwork. Your installer will try to apply for federal and state solar incentives. You installer should know the restrictions and requirements of the states in which they operate, and can help you figure out which permits you need – in many cases, the installer will fill out this paperwork for you. The time frame for this step is mainly dependent on how long it takes your installer to get it all finished and submitted. If you’re eager to get your panel system up and running immediately, just make sure to follow up with your installer to check on the progress of your paperwork
Equipment Purchase
Note: Before you sign your contract, the equipment required for the job is discussed. The two primary components of your solar system are the solar panels and the inverter. Your installer will likely recommend a particular brand of each with other incentives of purchase. Be sure to do your research and look particularly at the durability, efficiency and aesthetic ratings of each brand discussed (as well as the price of course). Spend some time looking at the advantages and disadvantages of microinverters, string inverters, power optimizers, Polycrystalline, Monocrystalline and Amorphous silicon cells, and other key features associated with the best solar panels on market.
After the required paperwork is submitted, your installer will need to place the order for the equipment needed for installation. It takes about one to two months for your paperwork to be approved and your equipment to be shipped.
Solar Panel Installation
Installation Day! Finally…
First your solar installer will start prepping the roof, and checks that the tiles/shingles are secure. Then, they begin to install the electrical wiring that will connect your solar panel to the general power system. Racks, which are responsible for securing the panels to your roof, are installed. Panels are then secured to the racks and connected to the inverter. The inverter is responsible for inverting direct current energy into alternating current energy. Alternating current energy is usable energy used in homes.
It takes about 1-3 days for the installation to take place, depending on the size of the system purchased.
Final Approval
Finally, a representative from your town government will need to inspect the system and give the final approval, basically double checking the installer’s work. A representative you’re your electrical company may also visit to of their own final evaluation of the solar panel system. Following the local inspection, you will be ready to connect your panel to the grid. After these miscellaneous inspections are approved, you’re finally able to connect your system to the grid.
It takes a couple weeks to a month for the town approval and utility approval to occur and the interconnection to go live. To read more about what to expect during the Solar Installation Process, check AES’ Solar Installation Guide!
Is solar worth the headache of installment?
In 2020, the average Solar System saved homeowners 94% of their electricity usage. At that rate, the average solar system installation would be paid off in 8 years’ time. With the lifespan of your average solar system lasting about 25 years, the little costs associated with the maintenance of your panels, and the corresponding added value to your home’s resale value, it is a no-brainer that going solar is a smart financial decision long term.
To learn more about the additive value that solar will bring to your home, check out AES’s article, ‘How Solar Panels Influence your Home Value‘
Also, feel free to explore AES’s Solar Energy Alternatives
What if my roof is in poor condition?
What are optimal roof conditions for solar panels?
Who We Are
American Energy and Solar (AES) is a Las Vegas based consumer-focused aggregator of renewable energy and finance.
Through AES’s proprietary Energy Freedom Program, we have created a comprehensive residential energy package that flips traditional solar financing to truly benefit the consumer.
In other words, we take advantage of todays historically low interest rates, and couple your home’s existing loan with the total of your solar system installment. The result is a lower monthly mortgage payment and a non-existent energy bill. All at $0 down. More over, you get to keep your 26% cash rebate for your solar system installation. While most companies would take your rebate for their profit, AES wants to keep your money in your pocket! No hidden costs or fees!
Interested in seeing how much you could save? Calculate your savings with our Mortgage and Solar Calculator.
Also, check out our page “Solar Panels and my Mortgage.”
AES uses NABCEP certified solar professionals with decades of experience to facilitate your installation. We use A tier equipment that is backed by industry-leading warranties and certifications. AES believes that having licensed and experienced professionals that understand the comprehensive nature of rewiring an entire home is a must. AES believes that having licensed and certified master electricians, that understand the comprehensive nature of rewiring an entire home, is a must. Our team is dedicated to the finest solar installation from start to finish to ensure that the customer is given a product that is both aesthetically and functionally perfect.
Let’s go solar and save you money. Feel free to contact our experts for more information to learn more.