FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to solar photovoltaic technology, you might have a lot of questions. Our team at Champion Solar is here to walk you through the things you need to know before we get down to work.

Are there any money-saving incentives available for solar?

Yes, there are many! Please visit our incentives page to see what is available for everyone and if there’s any that’s specific to your area or utility to see what is available.

What happens to solar panels when it’s cloudy or raining?

Photovoltaic panels use both direct and indirect sunlight to generate power. They will still work even when the light is reflected or partially blocked by clouds, although they are most effective when exposed to direct sunlight. At the same time, rain actually helps your panels function efficiently by washing away dust or dirt.

Minnesota and Wisconsin implement strong net metering policies. Excess energy generated by your panels during sunny hours will offset energy that you use at night or when your system isn’t operating at its full capacity

Will solar panels generate enough electricity to power my entire home or business?

Yes. However, there are variables that still need to be considered. Get in touch with our customer service representative so we can help you determine if your home or business qualifies for solar PV installation.

How does solar power work?

Basically, when sunlight hits the panels, it generates a current that passes through your electrical panel and effectively provides power to your home or business. However, this simple explanation only covers the basics of the whole system.

People have been using solar power for over 100 years. In fact, NASA has been using solar on satellites since 1958! Technological advancements have made it more efficient and affordable for all. If you want to learn more about how it works, feel free to reach out to our experts at Champion Solar.

Can I install the solar panels myself?

Absolutely. However, you must remember that you’re dealing with dangerous, direct current electricity. One mistake may lead to a serious injury or fatality. Before you think of going the DIY route, consider the safety hazards that come along with it.

Aside from the dangers of dealing with live current, some rebates and incentives are only applicable to professionally installed systems. It’s still advisable to find a reputable contractor like Champion Solar to handle the project from start to finish.

Working with an experienced company like ours gives you peace of mind that your panels are designed and installed correctly. Aside from all the monetary incentives you’ll be entitled to, all the necessary paperwork, permitting and inspections will be taken care of. With our professional turnkey solution, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and wait for everything to be done.

How long do solar electric systems last?

Solar modules typically carry a standard 25 to 30-year production warranty. When a solar electric system is designed, installed, and maintained properly, it can last for more than 40 years.

What is net-metering?

Net-metering in Minnesota and Wisconsin states that when you connect your solar production to the grid, the utility company has to pay you the same rate they charge you. Each provider has their own rules beyond that; some may pay you up to 120% of your typical usage, while others may allow you to make as much as you want up to a 40kW system. Whatever the case, this can help lower your bills and provide an extra source of income.

What are the financial benefits of solar energy?

Switching to a solar energy system allows you to cut down on monthly utility bills and protect yourself from rising electricity rates in the future. While the amount of money you save still depends on the policies governing your area, a clean energy transition is still a smart investment regardless of where you live.

How does solar power increase property value?

According to studies, homes with solar energy systems sell 3% to 6% more than homes without them. In some parts of the country, going solar gives you a higher chance to increase your property value than a kitchen renovation. However, this is more likely to happen if you own rather than lease your solar panel system.

The best part about this? Even though the value of your estate increases, laws are in place so that your property tax can not increase. Sweet!

How to size a solar system?

You may approach this in two ways: 1) Consider how much you want to save.2) Determine how much extra electricity and money you may want to make. Other factors that might help you are local levels of sun exposure, orientation of the array or tilt angle, and possible plans for future expansion.

How long will the solar power system last?

Solar panels are durable in nature, and are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including snow, wind, and hail. Generally, solar energy systems can generate electricity for 25–35 years under warranty and can continue for another 15+ years after that.

How do solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work?

Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. However, most households and businesses use alternating current (AC) electricity, so DC electricity still needs to pass through an inverter to become usable AC electricity. Once it’s converted, you have the choice to use it or send it back to the electric grid.

What is solar panel efficiency?

The electrical power your solar energy system produces is highly dependent on sunlight. As a result, it won’t be at its full capacity if it’s cloudy and they produce no energy at night. However, due to high electricity rates and great incentives, solar is a smart decision even if you live in a cloudy city.

Do solar panels produce power when the sun isn’t shining?

The electrical power your solar energy system produces is highly dependent on sunlight. As a result, it won’t be at its full capacity if it’s cloudy or if it’s nighttime. Our proposal will consider the average sunny vs. cloudy days and even snow so we are sure to provide for your production needs.

Do solar panels work in winter?

Panels need to be exposed to light to produce electric current, so it’s important to keep snow away from blocking the face of your solar panels. Colder temps actually increase voltage which means your system will produce MORE when it is cold and sunny. That is why production in Minnesota and Wisconsin is similar to that of Florida and Texas.

However, there are fewer sun hours during winter, leading to an overall drop in the production of electricity. It is advisable to conserve energy to get the most out of your system in the winter.

What’s the difference between grid-tied and off-grid systems?

The difference between the two systems revolves around where you store the energy you generate. With grid-tied systems, you get paid for the electricity your panels feed into the grid that’s shared with other households and businesses in your area. On the other hand, off-grid systems are not connected to power lines. Instead of grids, they use batteries to store the energy they generated from sunlight.

What is a solar inverter?

The inverter’s role in your solar energy system is to convert direct current (DC) to alternate current (AC) so it can be used to power your appliances.

How do solar batteries work?

Batteries serve as storage for excess solar energy from your panels. When your panels aren’t producing enough electricity or when you don’t have access to a grid, you can draw energy from the batteries instead.

 

What’s the difference between roof mounts and ground mounts?

Both options have their benefits. Roof mounts cost less since you’re using your current roofing system’s structure. Ground mounts tend to offer more flexibility since you can decide where you should place them. You have the liberty to move them to an area where the sun shines the most, so you can yield greater results.

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