Common residential solar modules are about 3-1/2’ x 5-1/2’ in size.  While size is similar for most solar modules, power output can vary widely.  If space is limited, a solar power system may need to be designed with the most powerful (expensive) solar modules available.  If there is plenty of space, you may be able to meet your needs with less expensive modules.

Common space limitations include:

• Necessary pathways for emergency personnel, as required by your local planning department.
• Vents, skylights and other obstructions
• Shading
• Rafter location

A professional site assessment includes accurate shade analysis as well.  Most solar modules stop working with only a small amount of shade present.  It’s important for the solar power system designer to have accurate information for determining solar panel location, equipment selection and plans for stringing the modules together for optimum performance.

A professional site assessment also includes an inspection of your existing electric service panel.  The National Electric Code and local building departments provide regulations for connecting solar power systems. A qualified professional with local knowledge can determine your best options for connecting a solar power system that meets your needs.

The post Determine Available Space For Solar Panels appeared first on San Diego County Solar.

As the market for residential solar power systems grows, so do options for financing.

We work with a variety of loans from local Credit Unions, PACE program providers and other lenders to find the best solution for every homeowner.  In most cases, homeowners can save on their monthly energy expense from day one – with $0 out of pocket!

Should you purchase or lease?

We recommend purchasing over solar leasing programs.  With today’s $0 down payment solar loans, purchasing solar makes more sense than ever before.  When compared with a 20 to 25-year lease, it’s a no-brainer.  A 12-year solar purchase-to-own program will save thousands of dollars for the average homeowner.

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Storing energy generated from your solar power system can be beneficial. While battery storage has been used for decades in off-grid applications, for some homeowners it now makes sense to add energy storage to grid-tied solar power.

There are two primary reasons to add energy storage:

1. To provide backup power in the case of a power outage.
2. To store energy for consumption during peak demand hours when prices are higher.

If you happen to live an area with frequent power outages, having a reliable backup power system can be practical. Adding a battery system can provide power to critical loads during an outage. Most residents in San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) service areas rarely experience an outage, so the cost of adding energy storage may be prohibitive.

SDG&E customers receiving permission to operate their solar power systems prior to March 30, 2018 can take service under tiered rates. Those adding solar power after the deadline will be required to take service under a time of use rate. The financial benefits of adding energy storage will vary greatly depending on your individual circumstances.

We’re seeing the most rapid advancements related to solar power in the area of energy storage components, including inverters, batteries and energy management systems. We are currently installing the RESU10H battery from LG Chem with the StorEdge 7.6kW inverter from SolarEdge.

This energy storage system in rural Fallbrook gets its power from a 10kW ground mounted solar array. The battery discharges daily to maximize self-consumption, and provides power to critical loads in the event of a power outage.

The recent Lilac fire demonstrated how SDG&E can cut power to large populations in the event of a wildfire. While this home was not affected, several nearby residents were without power for several days. For this homeowner, solar power and energy storage provide real value.

The post Storing Solar Power Energy appeared first on San Diego County Solar.

1. Sign on to “My Account”
2. Mouse over the “My Energy” tab and select “My Energy Overview” from the drop-down list.
3. In the dropdown list next to “View” select “My Energy Use”
4. You’ll have the option to view daily or monthly charts.  For the purpose of going solar, select monthly.
5. A bar graph will appear.  You can hover over the bar graph or click on the green “T” just above the right-hand side of the chart to view a list of your monthly kWh consumption.  You’ll also find printer and file icons if you’d like to save the information.

Another option for reviewing your energy history is accessing your “Green Button Data.” This data is critical for modeling time of use rates or incorporating energy storage.  Follow the previous steps 1-3, then:

1. Click on Green Button Data icon.
2. Select your electric meter and date range for the past year.
3. Click on “Export.”
4. Once the report is generated, click on link to “download.”
5. You now have an XML file you could forward to a solar installer for review, or you could analyze the data here: “Center for Sustainable Energy”

The post Getting Started With Solar Panels appeared first on San Diego County Solar.

Lower solar cost will help the Green Collar Solar℠ Program create jobs.  We are expanding the market for solar energy with low-cost systems for homes with smaller electric bills.

How does it work?

We find homes with good solar energy potential and offer them low-cost solar energy installation.

How low is the cost? 

Low enough so people with electric bills from $75-$150 can save money with solar energy.

Is this a lease? 

NO, this is not a lease.  With Green Collar Solar℠ you will own your system, whether you write a check or go with $0 down solar financing.

Do I need an in-home appointment with a salesperson to get an estimate?

NO, simply call (760) 230-2220 and we will give you a free estimate based on your home and electric bill.

Is Green Collar Solar℠ an installation company?

NO, it is a program created by San Diego County Solar and is currently offered only by San Diego County Solar. 

The post Lower Solar Cost appeared first on San Diego County Solar.

San Diego County Solar recently designed and installed this solar power system for an Oceanside, CA homeowner.   Power from the sun is harnessed by (17) LG 250w monocrystalline solar panels.  Matched to Enphase microinverters, this Oceanside   installation provides exceptional performance, free web-based monitoring and a 25 year major component warranty.

The post San Diego Solar Power with LG Solar Panels and Enphase Microinverters appeared first on San Diego County Solar.