solar panel durability

Unlimited Energy That Saves The Planet; Reasons To Get A Solar Energy System

October 30, 2021 By Cassandra Love Leave a Comment

Solar energy has taken the world by storm, and it continues to grow in popularity, showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. And not only is solar power becoming more and more popular, but those working in this industry are constantly finding ways to improve solar energy systems, making them more durable, reliable, and efficient. So it might just be time to make the switch to solar energy: you could save thousands of dollars each year, while you’re helping to reduce carbon emissions. But those are just two of the reasons why people love solar energy systems!

Limitless Energy

The sun is a nearly limitless source of energy, producing 175,000 terawatts of solar energy each second, which is 10,000 times more than the energy demand of this world today! There is never a day that the sun doesn’t rise in the morning on Earth, so we will always have access to sunlight, and we will always have the opportunity to get limitless free energy anywhere we are.

Lower Energy Costs

light bulb on a table with some coins next to it

Switching to solar power can help you save a lot of money on your electric bills. Even if your solar energy system does not generate 100% of your energy, you will still see significant changes in your energy costs each month, especially since the extra solar energy your solar system produces can be sold back to your local utility company through a billing mechanism known as net metering.

Durability

Because solar energy systems do not have any moving parts, they are less likely to get damaged than other equipment related to renewable energy, like windmills for example. Solar panel systems actually require very little to zero maintenance over their lifespan, because they are built to withstand high winds and extreme weather conditions, such as hail and heavy snowfall. This is why most solar panels come with a 25 year or more warranty!

Make A Statement

You can show your commitment to sustainability by purchasing a solar energy system for your home or business. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you will also be helping create jobs and stimulate the economy: in fact, more than half a million jobs around the world were created in the renewable energy sector in 2017, and this number continues to grow!

Benefit The Environment

hand holding a green earth with leaves sprouting

Utilizing solar energy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and cuts down on the use of fossil fuels, meaning a reduction in pollution from carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and other byproducts of fossil fuels, many of which can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular issues. In addition, solar power uses up to 90% less water, 80% less land, and is 96% less toxic to humans than fossil fuel processes.

Easy Installation

Solar panel installation has come a long way, and it is now much easier to install panels on roofs, walls, and even on the ground than ever before. Because of this, solar panel installation costs are also down; it can cost less than $3 a watt to install solar panels, which is a 65% decrease from 10 years ago when it was $8.50 per watt.

Savings On Top of Savings

Solar energy systems are incredibly affordable these days: not only can you save money on your electric bills by installing one, but you can also receive federal and state incentives of up to 26% of the cost of your system, increase your property value, and get a return on your investment more quickly than you might think!

But beyond all of the incentives you can get, the actual costs of solar energy systems have gone down dramatically in the last few decades: in fact, the cost of an average-sized residential solar energy system decreased 55% between 2010 and 2018, and that number is not even including the incentives mentioned above.

If you are considering going solar, come to Go Solar Energy. We will provide you with the best service and all the information you need, for free. Working with a trusted company like Go Solar Energy will not only help you get the most efficient solar panels, but will also help you to save thousands of dollars, since our agents work with the top-rated solar companies in the nation, and we can compare all available plans and find the right one for your needs. We will go over all of the tax exemptions in your state and make sure to save you as much money as possible. To get free instant quotes, simply enter your zip code in the bar on our home page, or to speak with one of our licensed agents, call 888-290-3112.

What Are Solar Roof Tiles? Are They Worth It?

April 18, 2021 By Cassandra Love Leave a Comment

Solar energy systems are taking the world by storm, and it is clear why. Solar power is a renewable energy source that is both clean and cost effective. And now, in addition to solar panels that you can add on to your roof, there is a new way to generate solar energy for your home: solar roof tiles. Tesla has created solar roof shingles that are installed on the roof, just as regular shingles would be, as a replacement for big solar panels that are installed over regular shingles. With these two options of shingles and panels available, you might be asking yourself which option is best for your home or business.

Solar Roof Tiles/Shingles

Surprisingly, solar roof tiles have been around since 2005, but they have only recently become popular. They have been growing in popularity because these small solar panels that are designed to look like roof shingles are aesthetically pleasing. They look great, but, just like large solar panels, they are photovoltaic sheets that convert the sun’s energy into renewable energy for homes and businesses. Each single can produce between 13 and 63 watts of energy, depending on the brand. They protect your roof and provide the same durability and flexibility as regular shingles, and, just as with larger solar panels, you can expect to save anywhere from 40-70% on electricity costs.

Solar Panels Vs Solar Roof Tiles

Both solar panels and solar shingles will increase your property value. Solar roof tiles and solar panels both perform the same function; however, there are some variables to consider when choosing between the two:

Efficiency

graph on a paper with a calculator next to it

Solar shingles can be less energy efficient than regular solar panels. In order for the tiles to be more efficient, you would need to have a particular roof slope with high sun exposure. Solar panels are hands-down the more efficient of the two, having an efficiency rating of about 22% as opposed to 18-20% for tiles.

Installation

Solar panels can be installed on almost any roof and do not need to cover the entire roof to be effective. Solar roof tiles, however, are part of the roofing material, so you will need to cover your entire roof with them. If you want to install solar roof tiles, it is best to do so when you’re planning to replace your house’s roof, because the old shingles will need to be removed entirely. Replacing your current roof with solar tiles will take a lot longer than installing solar panels, because panels can be placed on top of your current roof shingles. In addition, solar panels allow for more flexibility during installation, and for maximum efficiency because they can be tilted depending on the position of the sun.

Cost

woman with her hand on her chin and money signs all around her

Because of the need to cover your entire roof with them, the average cost of installation for solar roof tiles is anywhere between $45,000 and $75,000, depending on the slope and size of your roof. Solar panels, on the other hand, typically cost anywhere from $20,000 to $30,000 to install, and depending on your roof, you might not need as many panels. Both qualify for the U.S. federal government tax credit!

Durability

Solar panels usually come with a 20 to 25 year warranty, and even after their warranty expires, they will still typically provide 80% of rated power. Solar roof tiles are relatively new, but companies like Tesla promise an “infinite tile warranty,” meaning that they expect the tiles to last for at least 30 years. However, after 20-30 years, they may not produce as much energy as they did when they were new.

Maintenance

Maintenance for both solar roof tiles and solar panels is relatively simple. They can be cleaned with water and soap. However, when it comes to any repairs that needs to be done, panels can be replaced far more easily than can roof tiles. For a damaged solar panel, a technician can simply remove the faulty panel and install a new one. But for solar shingles, the repair process is more complicated because a technician will have to remove the tiles all around the faulty one to get to it and replace it.

Need Help?

Both solar panels and solar roof tiles are effective solar energy systems that will reduce your energy costs. When choosing between the two, it can come down to your roof design, budget, and aesthetic preference. Solar roof tiles are the pricier option, so if you are looking for a more affordable system, solar panels are your best choice. Solar panels are also easier to install and can offer more efficiency.

The best way to compare all of your options is by working with a licensed agent. Go Solar Energy can get multiple quotes from the top-rated solar energy companies in the country, and compare the quotes side by side. We will go over all of the pros and cons of each and help you determine which option is best for you, as well as which one will save you the most money. If you are interested in getting free quotes and guidance, simply enter your zip code in the bar on our home page. If you would like to speak with one of our agents in your area, call 888-290-3112.

More Power For Your Buck: Who Makes The Best Panels

August 14, 2020 By Cassandra Love Leave a Comment

The solar industry is booming. There are new solar panel manufacturers appearing every day. With so many different companies providing solar panels and systems, it can be difficult to decide which one is the best for your needs. Finding the one that offers the most efficient and durable panels at the best prices can mean doing a lot of research. You have to compare different companies’ solar plans, prices, and panel ratings. Go Solar Energy makes the process easier for you. We will evaluate the quality of each company’s solar panels and systems based on the most important criteria to you.

Warranty

When buying solar panels, you should look for ones with a long life expectancy. One way to determine this is by looking at the warranty provided by the company. After all, a company will only offer a solid warranty on a product that they have confidence in. Many companies offer 20-30-year warranties on solar panels, and some offer different guarantees on the inverter, monitoring, and other equipment. Look into this information, as well as into how long the company has been in business. Also check if there is any feedback available on the performance of their equipment.

Durability

Just as with any product, some solar panels are more durable than others, so look for those produced by companies who have had their panels independently tested. Independent testing of different solar panels can give you a good idea of how well they will hold up in extreme conditions, such as hurricanes, hail and winter storms.

Sustainability

the earth in green with green arrows around it

Some manufacturers use more sustainable methods and materials to produce their solar panels than others. This means that some solar panels will have more of an impact on the environment during the manufacturing process and at the end of their life cycle than other panels. When choosing a solar panel system, look for ones that are produced in the most environmentally friendly way possible.

Efficiency

Last but certainly not least is the efficiency of your solar panels. The more efficient the solar panel is, the more sunlight they will convert into energy for your home or business. If you choose panels with a higher efficiency rating, you will need to install fewer panels and you will end up getting a better return on your investment. Efficiency varies based on what type of panel you choose.

solar panels with people in white suits around it

Most solar panels are divided into three types: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. They all are different in how they are made, how they look, how much they cost, how they perform, and how they are installed. Monocrystalline solar panels are highly efficient, but cost more than any of the other types of solar panel. Polycrystalline panels cost less, but are also less efficient. Thin-film solar panels are lightweight, portable, and flexible, but are the least efficient of the three types.

That being said, even solar panels that are rated the least efficient will still save you money. Panels with a lower efficiency cost less and will still collect the sun’s energy to turn it into electricity. What it comes down to is how much you are willing to spend on solar panels.
Reviewing all the different types of solar panels, how durable and efficient they are, and the warranties offered by different companies can take a very long time. Go Solar Energy makes the process easier for you. Give us a few minutes and we can compare all of the different types of solar panels for sale and how much each company charges for them. We’ll set you up with a local agent who will go over all available plans to help you find the solar energy system that best suits your needs and finances. To get started, enter your zip code on the homepage, or to speak directly to one of our agents call (888) 290-3112.