Expert Solar Consultants | Frequently Asked Questions

The most common questions

At Expert Solar Consultants, our passion for empowering American families with energy independence inspired us to create a reliable, trustworthy source for solar solutions. We understand the transformative benefits of solar energy, but also recognize the challenges posed by misinformation in the industry. Our goal is to provide clear, expert guidance to debunk myths and clarify facts about solar power. Before you embark on your journey to energy independence, we invite you to explore our comprehensive FAQ section. Here, you’ll find essential insights about solar panel installation, efficiency, benefits, and maintenance, all designed to help you make an informed, confident decision about embracing renewable energy.

What is a solar panel?

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A solar panel, also known as a photovoltaic (PV) panel, is a device that converts light from the sun, which is composed of particles of energy called photons, into electricity. It's a key component in a solar power system. A typical solar panel consists of many solar cells made from layers of silicon, phosphorous (which provides the negative charge), and boron (which provides the positive charge).

What Factors Affect the Efficiency of Solar Panels?

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The efficiency of solar panels is influenced by several factors, including the type and quality of the solar cells, the angle and orientation of the solar panel, local climate conditions, and the presence of any shading or obstructions.

What are the Benefits of Solar Panels?

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The benefits of solar panels include reducing electricity bills, lowering carbon emissions, increasing property value, and providing a renewable and sustainable source of energy. They also offer independence from traditional energy sources and potential financial incentives.

Can Solar Panels Be Used in Cold Climates?

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Yes, solar panels can be used in cold climates. In fact, solar panels can perform better in colder temperatures, as excessive heat can reduce the efficiency of the solar cells. Snow can occasionally increase performance by reflecting light but can also obstruct sunlight if it accumulates on the panels.

What Incentives are Available for Illinois Residents Going Solar?

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Solar incentives typically work by providing financial relief to those who install solar panels. This can include upfront rebates, tax credits that reduce the amount owed to the government, and performance-based incentives that offer credits based on the amount of electricity produced by the solar system. It's really important that you work with a company that is transparent and honest about the way incentives will apply to you.

How Do Incentives for Solar Work?

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Can You Get Solar and Pay More Out of Pocket?

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Yes, once again working a with a company that is transparent and honest about their offering, costs, and incentives is key. For most residents, solar is a great long term solution that will help them lock in their cost of energy. But if costs and production are not assessed accurately, it can actually cost you more. Make sure you speak with a licensed professional before going solar.

How do solar panels work?

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Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. This process, known as the photovoltaic effect, involves solar cells made typically of silicon, which absorb photons from sunlight and generate an electric current.

Can Solar Panels Be Used in Cold Climates?

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How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

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Solar panels typically last between 25 to 30 years. However, this doesn't mean they stop producing electricity after this period; it just means their energy production might decrease to a level below what manufacturers consider optimal.

Can Solar Panels Work in Cloudy Weather?

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Solar panels can still generate electricity in cloudy weather, though their efficiency might be reduced. They are designed to capture different spectrums of sunlight, which means they can still function even when direct sunlight is not available.

How much energy can a solar panel produce?

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The amount of energy a solar panel can produce depends on several factors, including the size of the panel, the efficiency of the solar cells, and the amount of sunlight the panel receives. On average, a standard residential solar panel with a capacity of around 250 to 400 watts can produce between 0.75 to 1.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy per day, assuming about 4 to 8 hours of sunlight.

However, this can vary widely based on geographic location, weather conditions, the angle of the panels, and other factors. For instance, panels in sunny regions will produce more energy than those in less sunny areas. It's important to consider these variables when estimating the energy production of solar panels for a specific location.

What is Net Metering and How Does it Work?

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Net metering is a system that allows solar panel owners to feed excess electricity back into the grid in exchange for credits. When the solar panels produce more electricity than is used, the surplus is sent to the power grid, and the homeowner receives credits that can offset the cost of grid electricity used at other times.

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