Solar Energy FAQ

What does photovoltaic (PV) mean? What is a PV cell? What is a PV array? What is PV conversion efficiency? Are solar electric systems safe? Are solar power systems good for the environment? What is solar energy? Does solar work only on sunny days? How does a solar energy system benefit me personally? How can solar help the economy? How does solar electricity work? Will a solar PV system give me electricity if there’s a power outage? Can a PV system give a dangerous shock? Is solar power for everybody? What if I live up north? How long will my system last? Can I install solar myself? Do solar cells store energy? How will a solar energy system affect my home’s resale value? How well do solar modules withstand, and work in, inclement weather?

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What does photovoltaic (PV) mean?

The direct conversion of light into electricity.

What is a PV cell?

The smallest semiconductor element that converts light into electrical energy (DC voltage and current). (Courtesy of gepower.com)

What is a PV array?

An interconnected system of PV modules that function as a single electricity-producing unit. The modules are assembled as a discrete structure, with common support or mounting. In smaller systems, an array can consist of a single module. (Courtesy of gepower.com)

What is PV conversion efficiency?

The ratio of the electric power produced by a PV device to the power of the sunlight shining on the device.

Are solar electric systems safe?

Yes. Solar cells are mostly silicon, the primary component of sand. There is no exhaust and no toxic materials to leak out of the system. The electricity coming through the inverter is just like the electricity coming from household wall sockets; you should use the same care you would with utility power. All components are approved for utility interconnection and are installed according to standard construction practices. (Courtesy of gepower.com)

Are solar power systems good for the environment?

Yes! Energy created through our solar electric system produces no pollutants. Our smallest system typically cuts greenhouse gas emissions as effectively as 50 trees. (Courtesy of gepower.com)

What is solar energy?

A solar energy system creates usable power from sunshine. Photovoltaic or PV uses sunlight to generate electricity. It’s the same technology found on pocket calculators, just on a larger scale. PV systems can be designed to generate the majority of the electricity used in your home, or just a portion of it.

Does solar work only on sunny days?

Solar systems work even when it’s cloudy. Naturally, cloud cover reduces the amount of solar radiation reaching the panels, but the system will produce some electricity and/or heat on all but the most overcast days.

How does a solar energy system benefit me personally?

• It reduces your energy bill, and in many areas the utility will buy back any extra electricity you generate. Federal, state, and utility financial incentives are also available in many areas. • It adds to the value of your home. • You gain energy independence. • Perhaps most importantly, it’s a good investment in a sustainable future for yourself and your loved ones.

How can solar help the economy?

Right now the US has to import oil and natural gas to cover our energy needs. The cost adds up to many billions of dollars, and all of that money leaves the country. But solar energy is generated locally. The energy dollars stay at home, creating economic growth and benefiting your community.

How does solar electricity work?

This technology is called “photovoltaic” or PV. Sunlight hitting silicon cells in a module generates a DC current. This current goes to an inverter in the house, which turns it into household AC. Grid-connected systems are linked to the regular electrical grid, and reduce the amount of current the house draws from the power company. Off-grid PV systems are completely independent of the power company. They require extensive battery backup and are more complex to install and run. Wind Energy Systems LLC specializes in grid connected systems, since these are easier to use for most people.

Will a solar PV system give me electricity if there’s a power outage?

That depends on the kind of system you have. PV systems with battery back-up will provide electricity if the power goes out.

Can a PV system give a dangerous shock?

A properly installed solar panel cannot give you a shock, and our mounting system keeps wires safely bundled and out of the way. An improperly installed or damaged module can give a shock. However, Wind Energy Systems LLC are certified installers work to the same electrical code as any qualified electrician, so there is minimal risk.

Is solar power for everybody? What if I live up north?

Anybody who has a good site can benefit from a solar energy system. Once you get it installed, the power is free. And solar isn’t just for the sunny south – solar works in all areas with sunlight. Wind Energy Systems LLC uses panels that are in use around the world, and we have long experience with all kinds of weather extremes. Our systems work efficiently in pretty much any climate.

How long will my system last?

If properly installed, it should last many years. Ours last a very long time. In fact, we guarantee the performance of our PV modules for 25 years.

Can I install solar myself?

It is best to go with an experienced installer. We can help you determine the right system for you, and make sure everything works properly. We are certified for our systems, assuring you of expert installation and service.

Do solar cells store energy?

No. Solar cells just convert sunlight into an electric current that must be used immediately or stored in batteries to be used later. (Courtesy of gepower.com)

How will a solar energy system affect my home’s resale value?

Studies show that most Americans would pay more for a home with a solar system already installed. And of course, as energy costs rise, anything that lowers those costs will add to a home’s value. In addition, our systems are designed specifically to be aesthetically pleasing – they look good on a roof.

How well do solar modules withstand, and work in, inclement weather?

In cloudy weather, solar modules work, although they produce less electricity than on a sunny day. Under a light overcast, the modules might produce about half as much as under full sun, ranging down to as little as five to ten percent under a dark overcast day. If the modules become covered with snow, they stop producing power, but snow generally melts quickly when the sun strikes the modules; if you brush the snow off, they resume operation immediately. Our modules can withstand one inch (2.5 cm) hailstones at 50 mph (80.5 kph). (Courtesy of gepower.com)