Monthly Archives: August 2016

Photovoltaic solar panels convert the sun’s rays into electricity. But as is the case with many technological inventions, not all PV panels accomplish this goal in the same way. One of the biggest decisions you face when planning a photovoltaic system is which type of solar panels to choose. Currently, three types of panels are available: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film, each created using slightly different technology. To help you determine which type of photovoltaic panel is right to power your home or business, we have put together some basic information on the pros and cons of each. Monocrystalline Silicon Solar Panels Monocrystalline silicon technology is responsible for starting the transition to solar power. First commercialized in the 1950s, these...

Social media is blowing up with news of consumers’ solar savings, appropriately identified with the #SolarSavings hashtag. Today, you can save thousands on your photovoltaic system installation by taking advantage of the available government financial incentives. And of course, adopting solar energy cuts your power bills drastically. If you size your PV system properly, you can eliminate the need for grid power altogether. But did you know that you can boost your solar savings even further by increasing your home’s energy efficiency? If you participate in net metering, this is a great way to earn additional credit toward future grid electricity use. A home energy audit offers an effective tool for determining how best to boost your household’s efficiency. Give...

Commercial solar saves your business money and gets you free publicity at the same time. Every day, we read about which big companies and businesses across the country have made the switch to solar energy. But make no mistake — these high-profile commercial solar projects aren’t all about saving the world. What they don’t tell you in the news stories is that these companies are scoring big savings and free PR by investing in photovoltaic power. Your business can score big too, if you make the move to commercial solar energy. Adopting Commercial Solar Is a Savvy Business Investment Sure, installing a photovoltaic system large enough to meet your electricity needs requires an upfront investment. However, the costs may not...

Adopting solar power means installing a rooftop photovoltaic panel system, at least for most homeowners. But this isn’t your only option. Did you know that you can mount your solar array on the ground instead? Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems can be just as cost-effective and efficient as rooftop solar panels. Types of Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Panel Systems Two different types of installations are available for ground-mounted solar panel systems: standard mounts and pole mounts. Standard ground mounts use a metal framework to support the solar panels. A metal rack is installed close to the ground, and the array is attached at a fixed angle. Some systems allow you to adjust the angle or tilt of the array to follow the sun’s path...

Both solar power and wind energy can provide electricity for your household, reducing your monthly utility bills and giving you energy independence. But which type of renewable energy system is the better choice for your home? Space Requirements for Solar Power Systems and Wind Turbines A solar panel system can be installed on your rooftop, as long as the roof has enough space, support and access to direct sunlight. If the rooftop isn’t suitable for whatever reason, photovoltaic panels can be mounted on the ground. Either type of installation will produce enough electricity to handle your household energy needs. In contrast, a wind energy system capable of generating enough power for your home would have larger space requirements. A turbine...

Interest in off-grid solar power is growing, fueled in part by the contentious political and social climate permeating the United States today. For those potential clients considering installation of an off-grid photovoltaic system, the prospect of energy independence is eclipsed only by the potential of drastically lower utility costs. But cutting ties with the utility company requires specialized equipment not typically included in grid-tied systems. Although your specifications may differ depending upon the size and scale of your photovoltaic system, the essential components required for an off-grid installation are fairly standard. Off-Grid Solar Panels Photovoltaic solar panels are the foundation of any system installation. These modules harness the sun’s energy. How many solar panels do you need to power your...

Although commercial solar energy systems are often mounted on the ground or on poles, many businesses don’t have enough land required for this type of installation. Intermountain Wind & Solar offers a wide range of photovoltaic array mounting solutions for businesses. Rooftop Commercial Solar Systems Most businesses that adopt photovoltaic power opt for rooftop arrays. Commercial building roofs often have ample space, and with this type of installation, the energy is produced right where it is needed. Consequently, little need exists for additional infrastructure to transport electricity, which would add to the up-front equipment costs. Placing photovoltaic modules on the roof also can provide for optimal energy production, as the area is naturally exposed to the sun. Arrays can be...

When selecting a professional solar installer for your home or business, it’s important to research your options thoroughly. You will likely look at various companies’ websites, check their ratings with the Better Business Bureau and read customer reviews. Eventually, when you have narrowed your choices down, you will begin requesting estimates for your photovoltaic energy system. Before making a final decision, however, it may be best to request an onsite consultation. Contrary to what you may have heard, onsite visits aren’t for the purpose of giving you a sales pitch in person. Reputable solar installers and contractors recognize the importance of an onsite consultation prior to finalizing the design and pricing a photovoltaic system. An onsite evaluation provides a wealth...

The photovoltaic panels — also known as PV panels — and inverters used for residential solar power systems must be mounted on a structure that is durable and stable, capable of withstanding exposure to the elements for decades. Homeowners have three options for mounting photovoltaic systems: the roof, the ground or on solar trackers. Each approach offers specific benefits, but which one is right for you? Rooftop Residential Solar Installations Most residential photovoltaic systems are mounted on rooftop racks. Rack mounts tilt the solar array to the optimal angle for capturing the most energy from the sun. Often, rooftop placement is the ideal choice because it provides the best access to sunlight. Rooftop rack mounting is strong and easy to...

Photovoltaic solar power is highly cost-effective, in large part because the sun’s energy is free and abundant, especially in the Intermountain West. Every home and business owner who installs a solar array will realize significant — and immediate — cost savings. However, some homeowners are able to achieve a faster payback (and therefore, bigger savings) than others on their solar installations. With a little research and attention, you can learn from these penny-pinching homeowners how to shorten the time it takes for your photovoltaic panels to pay for themselves. Check out our tips for maximizing your energy output, and get the most from your photovoltaic solar panels. Improve Your Energy Efficiency Your residential solar system will be sized to satisfy...