FAQs

1.  What is the Federal Tax Credit?

First implemented in 2006, the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a 26% federal tax credit for residential, commercial and utility scale solar systems placed in service after January 1, 2020.  The credit is a dollar for dollar reduction in the income taxes of the customer that is claiming the ITC.

2.  What is Net Metering?

Net Metering (NEM) enables residential customers who generate their own electricity to pump excess electricity back to the utility’s power grid.  All electricity not used by the home and sent back is credited to the homeowner at the rate specified on their NEM agreement. The utility effectively becomes a built-in battery for the solar system. 

3.  Will I still receive an electric bill from the utility if I have solar?

You will still receive a bill from the utility for normal NEM fees and gas charges.   That being said, you can reduce your bill significantly once your solar system is turned on.  

4.  Does my solar system produce electricity when the sun isn’t shining?

The amount of solar power your system generates depends on the level of sunlight it is exposed to.  Your solar panels will produce slightly less power on a cloudy day than on a sunny day and no energy at night time.  Our solar designers use a sophisticated program that looks at 30 plus years of weather data to determine the estimated average amount of solar a homeowner can expect in a year. 

5.  Does my solar system work if the utility power is out?

All of our systems are connected to the grid.  If the grid is down then your solar system will shut off unless you have a battery back up installed.  Your system is shut off to prevent it from sending electricity to the grid where the utility workers could be injured by the electricity current.