Solar Power FAQ
How long will it take for the system to pay for itself?
A properly designed and installed system can pay for itself in 5 to 10 years — and even faster if special electric rates apply. Click the button above to calculate your savings.
Will I need new appliances, or changes to my home electric wiring if I go solar?
No. Your internal home electrical system will not be affected by a move to solar, so no need to make any changes. The one difference will see the big reduction in your electricity bills!
What if I don’t use all the electricity my solar system generates?
If you produce more electricity than you use from your solar system, the extra electricity your system produces will go back to the electric grid, basically running your meter backwards, saving you more since your electric utility provider will credit you for the electricity you provided back to it.
Does my solar system work at night or on a cloudy day?
Solar systems only produce electricity with direct sunlight. At night, or on a cloudy day, you will use electricity from your electric provider. On sunny days, you will not only use the electricity directly from your solar system, but will also provide electricity back to your provider, building credits that will offset your nighttime/cloudy day electric use.
What is a “grid-tied” power system?
Where utility power is available, a grid-tied solar power system is the best solution to supply some of the energy needed, using the power from the utility in place of batteries. Because these grid-connected systems are much less expensive to purchase and operate than battery backup systems, and because the owners can effectively sell power back to the utilities, these systems are becoming very popular and affordable.
What are the benefits of a grid-tied power system?
The owner of a grid-connected solar energy system can both buy and sell electricity each month. This is because electricity generated by the solar energy system can be used on-site, or fed through a meter into the utility grid. The utility serves as a backup to the solar power system similar to the way in which batteries do in stand-alone (off-grid) systems.
How will my utility bill me once I go solar?
Every month you will receive a statement showing how much electricity you have “sold” back to the utility (by running the meter backwards), or how much net electricity you have consumed; you will also get billed a nominal (about $5) standby charge. Then, once a year on the anniversary of your system’s interconnection, the utility will send you a reconciliation statement to you and bill you for the net power you have used during the year, essentially annual billing.
How long will my panels last?
Solar power panels installed by EPS are guaranteed for up to 25 years.
What if I need a new roof or need to conduct roof repairs?
EPS recommends that clients conduct roof repairs before the solar panels are installed. Although you do not need a brand new roof to go solar, if you were planning on replacing your roof, we also recommend you go ahead before we install your panels. Should you need to repair your roof after the panels are installed, they can easily be removed and re-installed.
Will my property tax increase if I go solar?
No. Although going solar will immediately increase the value of your home, you will not experience a property tax increase in the states of Iowa, Wisconsin, or Illinois.
How long does the installation take?
Installing your solar system can take anywhere from 1 to 3 days, depending on its size. Your project manager will keep you informed every step of the way to ensure minimum disruption to your family or business.
How do I take care of my solar system?
Solar power panels sold and installed by EPS are guaranteed for 25 years. The only maintenance they may require is a semi-annual washing if you are in a dusty location.
Inverter Care: The best thing you can do for your inverter is to keep it cool and clean. Don’t let plants or debris accumulate around the inverter.