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GreenSpark’s most frequently asked residential solar questions, answered.
At GreenSpark, we’ve spent the last 20 years helping homeowners and business owners in Rochester, the Finger Lakes region, and beyond switch to clean, renewable solar power. Over the years, our residential solar experts have worked closely with countless homeowners on their solar journey. Whether you’re thinking about making the switch to solar or just want to learn a little bit more about how it works, here are some of the most commonly asked questions our team receives from curious homeowners.
Can I get a solar array on my north-facing roof?
Typically, no. When we install your solar array, the main goal is to have your panels facing the direction of the sun as it rises in the east and sets in the west. If the panels are on a south-facing roof, they are getting direct sun all day long. If they are on a north-facing roof they are getting considerably less direct sun—sometimes 40-50% less production. This could mean the return on your investment would be too insignificant to be worthwhile.
If I go solar, I’ll never lose power, right?
This is incorrect. That’s because your GreenSpark array is connected to the power grid, so when it goes down, your solar energy system will too. This is done as a safety measure to protect electricity utility workers and first responders from becoming injured by solar panels sending power to the grid.
In New York State, we’re able to use the power grid as a battery which allows us to over-produce in the months that see more hours of sunlight. If you’re concerned about having a source of backup power during blackouts, there are a few options, such as special inverters that supply backup power during a blackout when paired with a battery. You can learn more about our battery backup solutions here.
Is my home still grid-tied?
Yes. You are still receiving energy from your utility company whenever your solar is not producing enough for the loads in your home, like during the wintertime, when limited sunlight means your array may not be producing as much power.
What is net metering?
After your home’s energy needs are met, excess energy is sent to the utility grid and you get credit for it. In other words, if you use less electricity than your solar system produces, the utility company will offset your bill as you earn credits. During the cold, overcast months of Rochester’s winter when we receive less sun, you get to use those credits for even greater savings. This is known as net metering.
Will my array produce energy during cloudy, snowy winter days?
Absolutely! Although shorter winter days do offer less production than summer days, you’re still producing energy. Our solar experts account for New York’s gray winter days during your initial estimate, and long sunny days more than make up the difference.
For example, over the course of a year, if you use 12,000 kWh, you aren’t going to produce an even 1,000 kWh each month. You might only produce 300-500 kWh in January, but you might produce over 1,800 kWh in July.
What happens if it snows on my panels?
No worries! Snowfall is factored in when we calculate your home’s annual sun exposure. Plus, your panels are installed at an angle, which makes it difficult for much snow to accumulate.
How much will it cost to go solar? Can you give me a range?
Every home is different, which means the cost of going solar varies greatly from situation to situation. Your GreenSpark sales representative will give you a customized and proposal based on the amount of solar that we are able to fit on your property.
How much will solar cost upfront?
This depends on how much you want to put down for the system. We offer financing options for the entirety of the system, along with a loan to get you to the next tax season to receive tax credits. However, if you want to lower your monthly payments, just like a house, the more money you put down the lower those payments will be.
What happens if I move out?
For the majority of the systems that we install, all warranties (including panels, warranty, and workmanship) are connected to the address/house and not the person themselves. We suggest when you move out just leave a little postage note with our name and then we can work with the new resident to get them set up with monitoring.
What are my financing options?
We offer two types of loans, a general loan for the cost of your system and a loan to get you to tax season to cover your tax credits. Your salesperson will review our loan options during your meeting.
Are there any available incentives to help cover the cost of my installation?
There are currently 3 different incentives that you receive for going solar. The first is through NYSERDA and is based on the size of your system. Currently, this grant offers $0.40/ Watt.
The next is the Federal Tax Credit, so in order to receive this, you have to be paying federal taxes through your job. Thanks to the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, this credit currently offers 30% of the cost of the system.
Lastly, there’s the New York State tax incentive. In order to receive this credit, you have to be paying state taxes through your job. This is capped at $5,000 and most solar systems will hit this cap.
Still have questions? Interested in learning more about solar? Want to receive a free solar quote? Reach out to the GreenSpark team today and a solar expert will be in touch shortly:
