As renewable energy become a "household" term, choosing a qualified electrical contractor is the key to getting the most productive PV system for your home. As an expert in residential electrical contracting for more than 35 years, IES works with you to determine the solar installation that best meets your energy needs and budget. Your solar system should last well over 30 years. Choose a company you can trust to be there to ensure your investment pays off.

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FRequently asked questions For Residential Solar

Electricity generated by solar panels is referred to as PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) energy.

Q. What is a PV system?

A. PV technology produces direct current (DC) electricity directly through the interaction of sunlight with materials inside a solar panel.  A PV system will consist of an array of modules generating DC electricity, an inverter, and sometimes battery storage back up with charge controller.

Q. What is an inverter?

A. Utility-connected homes use alternating current (AC) power.  An inverter converts PV power from DC to AC for home usage.

Q. How much electricity will a system produce?

A. The amount of power produced depends on the size of the system. An average home consumes 6,500-10,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year. The amount of sunshine falling upon on the average home produces well beyond this amount, meaning a system can be designed to effectively offset all electrical needs. Most systems are designed, however, to offset a portion of your electrical needs.

Q. What about whewn the sun isn't shining?

A. A solar system using batteries for storage offsets non-sunlight periods. However, you can tie your system to the electrical grid.

Q. What is a "grid-tie" PV system?

A. Grid-tie basically connects your solar system directly to your utility company's lines.

Q. How large is a typical system?

A. Typical residential Solar PV systems can range from fifty (50) to six hundred (600) square feet. The more efficient the materials in the panels are, the smaller the size requirement.

Q. How much does a PV system cost?

A. Systems range in price. The larger the system, the lower the average cost per watt. A two (2) kilowatt system may average between $16,000 and $20,000 ($8.00 to $10.00 per watt), while a five (5) kilowatt system may be cost around $35,000 ($ 7.00/watt). These costs are prior to rebates offered in different areas and states.

Q. What tax credits and incentives are available?

A. There is currently a federal tax credit of 30% for qualifying residential or commercial solar systems.  The Federal (MACRS) and State accelerated depreciation deductions can also significantly reduce the final cost of a system used for commercial applications.

Q. Are there any other incentives or programs available to help me afford a solar energy system?

A. Programs vary by area and state.  affecting solar energy go to http://www.dsireusa.org/.

A. Saving depend on your consumption and the size of your solar system. and the amount of electricity you would normally have consumed. A 2kW PV system which is replacing electricity at 30 cents a kWh could save $1,125.00 per year.

Q. How long does it take for a PV system to pay for itself?

A. A solar PV system could potentially generate savings that would equal an annual Return on Investment (ROI) of 7% to 15% per year at today's electric rates. The savings are not taxed.