Salt of the Earth Solar

How do I know if my system is working properly?

Your solar photovoltaic inverter contains advanced electronics that will alert you in the event of a problem. System under-performance is a bit trickier, as energy production indicated by your inverter at a single point in time can sometimes be misleading; it’s far better to take an average over a week or month. Typical reasons a system might under-perform include excessively soiled modules and increased shading from growing foliage. If you suspect your system is under-performing, please give us a call!

What is Net Metering, and how does it work?

Your electric utility measures your power consumption with an electrical meter, which spins forward as power is consumed. With your new renewable energy system, you are generating your own power as well. Any power demands will first be met by your solar production, then by your electric utility (e.g. Portland General Electric/PGE, Pacific Power, etc). At times your system may create more solar power than you are consuming, and in those instances power will be returned to the utility grid , effectively spinning your power meter backwards. Your overall power bill will “net” the solar energy generated and power consumed, and you will only be billed for the difference.

If you generate more energy than you use, you will receive credits on your account for future bills, which means sunnier summer months can offset your usage in cloudier months. Energy credits unused at the end of the billing cycle will not carry over year to year, so it is important to know what your utility’s annual billing cycle is!

Will I still get a power bill?

Unless you are completely off-grid, you will have a utility bill even with solar energy. The amount of your utility bill will depend on your system’s production relative to your overall energy consumption. Your utility also likely charges fixed access fees that solar power cannot offset.

How long can I expect my new solar power system to last?

Photovoltaic systems are built to last and often continue to produce renewable energy for many decades with only slight performance degradation over time. In all likelihood, your system will continue to function long after future technologies have superseded it.

Will I still have solar power if there is a power outage?

In a typical grid-tied photovoltaic system, your solar inverter will turn itself off and cease to produce power in the event of a power outage. This is to protect utility linesmen and first responders that may be working to restore power. Some inverter companies, however, do offer solar-connected power outlets that may continue to function in an emergency power outage, and we can design a battery backup system for you designed to maintain constant power.

What if my roof needs repairs after I’ve installed solar panels?

Your solar panels will help protect your roof from the elements and actually do slow its aging. Should you ever need to make repairs on or replace the roof, the solar panels may need to be removed and reinstalled, or you may be able to re-roof around the installation. This depends on a number of factors, including the roof’s composition and the solar attachments employed. Removal/replacement is a service we can perform for you. In a changing environment of incentive/tax credits and technologies, periodically it has made sense for our clients to upgrade their systems altogether. In every case, we will always clearly communicate your options for you to make the best decision.

What happens to the system a night?

Your inverter will go into a sleep state when there’s not enough daylight for the system to produce solar energy, and any of your power needs will be drawn from the utility grid. Since you’re always connected to the grid, your home is fully powered all the time. Once it becomes light outside, the system will awaken and begin operation automatically.