Solar Energy FAQ

General Solar Questions

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight directly into electricity. When sunlight hits the solar cells, electrons are knocked loose from their atoms, creating an electrical current. This direct current (DC) electricity flows to an inverter that converts it to alternating current (AC) electricity for use in your home or business. Any excess electricity can be sent back to the grid through net metering.

Do solar panels work on cloudy days?

Yes! Solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days, though at reduced capacity (typically 10-25% of full production). The Bay Area's climate is actually excellent for solar energy - panels perform better in moderate temperatures than extreme heat. Our region receives plenty of sunlight year-round, making solar a smart investment even with occasional fog and clouds.

How long do solar panels last?

Quality solar panels typically last 25-30 years or longer. Most manufacturers provide 25-year performance warranties guaranteeing at least 80-85% of original output after 25 years. The panels continue producing electricity beyond 25 years, just at slightly reduced efficiency. Inverters typically need replacement after 10-15 years, but newer microinverters can last as long as the panels.

Do solar panels require maintenance?

Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Rain naturally cleans them in most cases. We recommend an annual visual inspection and occasional cleaning if you notice reduced output or excessive dust/debris accumulation. Our monitoring systems alert you to any performance issues. Most maintenance involves checking connections and ensuring vegetation doesn't shade the panels.

Will solar panels damage my roof?

No, when properly installed by professionals like Pacific Edge, solar panels actually protect the roof area they cover from weather and UV damage. We use industry-standard mounting systems that penetrate the roof minimally, with all penetrations properly sealed and flashed to prevent leaks. We assess roof condition before installation and can coordinate any necessary roof repairs or replacement before solar installation.

Solar Installation & Process

How long does solar installation take?

Physical installation typically takes 1-3 days depending on system size. However, the complete process from contract signing to system activation averages 6-12 weeks, primarily due to permitting and utility approval timelines. Here's the breakdown:

• Site assessment and design: 1-2 weeks
• Permitting (city, utility, HOA if applicable): 2-6 weeks
• Physical installation: 1-3 days
• Inspection and utility approval: 1-4 weeks

Do I need to replace my roof before installing solar?

If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan (15-20 years old for asphalt shingles), we recommend replacing it before solar installation. It's expensive and inconvenient to remove and reinstall panels later for a roof replacement. During our site assessment, we evaluate roof condition and provide honest recommendations. We can coordinate with roofing contractors if replacement is needed.

Can solar panels be installed on any roof type?

Solar panels can be installed on most roof types including asphalt shingle, tile, metal, flat roofs, and even ground-mounted systems. Each roof type requires specific mounting hardware and techniques. We have extensive experience with all common Bay Area roof types and can design an optimal system for your specific situation.

What permits are required for solar installation?

Solar installations require several permits and approvals:

• Building permit from your local jurisdiction
• Electrical permit for electrical work
• Interconnection agreement with your utility company (PG&E, etc.)
• HOA approval if applicable (California law limits HOA restrictions on solar)

Pacific Edge handles all permitting paperwork and applications as part of our turnkey service.

Will solar work during a power outage?

Standard grid-tied solar systems shut down automatically during power outages for safety reasons (to protect utility workers). However, if you add battery storage, you can have backup power during outages. Battery systems like Tesla Powerwall automatically detect outages and switch to backup mode, keeping essential circuits powered. See our Energy Storage page for details.

Costs, Savings & Financial Questions

How much do solar panels cost?

For Bay Area homes, complete solar installations typically cost $15,000-$30,000 depending on system size. Factors affecting cost include:

• System size (kW capacity)
• Panel and equipment quality
• Roof complexity and accessibility
• Electrical upgrades needed
• Permitting requirements

We provide detailed, transparent pricing in our proposals with no hidden fees.

Are there solar incentives available?

Solar incentives include:

• Net metering: Full retail credit for excess solar electricity sent to the grid
• Property tax exemption: California excludes solar value from property tax assessment
• SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program): Rebates for battery storage systems
• Local utility programs: Some utilities offer additional rebates
• Accelerated depreciation (MACRS): For commercial solar systems

We help identify all applicable incentives for your situation.

How much will I save with solar?

Savings vary based on your electricity usage, system size, and utility rates. Most Bay Area homeowners save $1,500-$3,000 per year on electricity bills. Over 25 years, that's $37,500-$75,000 in total savings. With PG&E rates continuing to rise (averaging 6-8% annually), solar locks in low energy costs for decades. Our proposals include detailed savings projections specific to your situation.

What is the payback period for solar?

Most Bay Area solar systems pay for themselves in 5-8 years through electricity savings. After payback, the electricity is essentially free for the remaining system life (15-20+ years). Payback depends on:

• System cost after incentives
• Your electricity rates and usage
• Rate increases over time
• Whether you purchase or finance

Can I finance solar installation?

Yes! We offer multiple financing options including:

• Solar loans: Low-interest loans (3-7% APR) with terms up to 25 years
• Home equity loans/HELOC: Often lowest interest rates, tax-deductible interest
• PACE financing: Property Assessed Clean Energy programs
• Cash purchase: Best return on investment
• Leases/PPAs: Available for some situations (generally not recommended)

Many homeowners find solar loans allow monthly payments lower than their previous electric bills, providing immediate positive cash flow.

Does solar increase home value?

Studies show solar increases home value by approximately $4-5 per watt of installed capacity. A typical 6 kW system adds $24,000-$30,000 to home value. Berkeley Lab research found solar homes sell faster and for premium prices. Importantly, California's property tax exemption means you gain this value without increased property taxes.

System Sizing & Performance

What size solar system do I need?

System size depends on your electricity consumption, roof space, and goals. We analyze your utility bills to determine average daily usage (kWh), then design a system to offset your desired percentage (typically 80-100%). Most Bay Area homes need 5-10 kW systems. During our site assessment, we review your usage history and design the optimal system size for your needs and budget.

Can I power my entire home with solar?

Yes! Most homes can achieve 100% solar offset with adequate roof space. However, you'll still need grid connection for nighttime power (unless you add batteries). Net metering ensures annual production matches consumption even though production varies by season. Some homeowners choose smaller systems (80-90% offset) to optimize economics.

How much electricity will my solar panels produce?

Production depends on system size, location, orientation, and shading. In the Bay Area, a 1 kW system typically produces 1,400-1,600 kWh per year. A 6 kW system produces about 8,400-9,600 kWh annually - enough for most homes. Our proposals include estimated production based on your specific site conditions using industry-standard software.

What direction should solar panels face?

South-facing roofs are ideal in the Bay Area, but solar works great on east, west, and even some north-facing roofs. Modern panel efficiency and Bay Area electricity rates make west-facing systems particularly attractive (producing during high-rate afternoon hours). We optimize panel placement and tilt angle for maximum production and value on your specific roof.

What about shade from trees or buildings?

Shade reduces solar production, but modern microinverters and power optimizers minimize the impact. We use specialized software during site assessment to analyze shade patterns throughout the year. Light shade (shadows from distant trees) has minimal impact. Heavy shade may require tree trimming or focusing panels on unshaded roof areas. We provide honest assessments of your site's solar potential.

Net Metering & Utilities

What is net metering?

Net metering (NEM) is California's program crediting solar customers for excess electricity sent to the grid. When your panels produce more than you use, the excess goes to the grid and your meter runs backward, earning credits. At night, you draw from the grid using those credits. Credits roll over month to month, with annual "true-up" billing. Currently, NEM 3.0 applies to new solar customers in California.

How does billing work with solar?

With solar, you transition from monthly billing to annual "true-up" billing. You'll still receive monthly statements showing electricity imported and exported, but actual charges/credits settle annually. Most solar customers pay only the minimum monthly connection fee ($10-15) plus a small annual true-up payment. You're still connected to the grid for reliability and net metering benefits.

Will I still have an electric bill with solar?

Yes, but dramatically reduced. You'll pay minimum monthly connection fees (typically $10-15/month) to remain connected to the grid. Depending on system size and usage, you may have a small annual true-up charge or credit. Systems sized for 100% offset often result in annual bills of just $120-180 (connection fees only) compared to previous bills of $2,000-4,000+ per year.

What happens to excess solar production?

Under net metering, excess production earns credits on your utility account at the retail electricity rate. These credits roll over month to month. In California's sunny months (April-September), you build up credits that offset winter consumption. Any credits remaining at your annual true-up typically roll forward or are paid out at a lower wholesale rate.

Equipment & Technology

What types of solar panels are available?

Three main types exist:

• Monocrystalline: Most efficient (20-22%), best for limited space, premium price, all-black appearance. We primarily install these.
• Polycrystalline: Slightly lower efficiency (17-19%), lower cost, blue appearance. Good value option.
• Thin-film: Lowest efficiency, flexible, rarely used for homes.

We install Tier 1 panels from manufacturers like SunPower, REC, and Q-CELLS with proven reliability and comprehensive warranties.

What is the difference between string inverters and microinverters?

String inverters: Single inverter converting DC to AC for the entire array. Lower cost but entire system affected by shade or panel issues.

Microinverters: Individual inverter on each panel. More expensive but better performance in shade, panel-level monitoring, and no single point of failure. We primarily recommend microinverters (Enphase) for residential installations due to superior performance and reliability.

Should I include battery storage?

Battery storage adds significant value if you:

• Want backup power during outages (increasingly common in California)
• Have high evening/night electricity usage
• Are on time-of-use rates with expensive peak periods
• Value energy independence
• Want to maximize self-consumption of solar

Batteries increase upfront cost by $12,000-20,000. Learn more on our Energy Storage page.

Can I monitor my solar system performance?

Yes! All systems we install include monitoring via smartphone app or web portal. You can view real-time production, daily/monthly generation, system health, and individual panel performance (with microinverters). Monitoring helps identify issues quickly and confirms your system is performing as expected. We also monitor your system and proactively reach out if we detect problems.

Warranties & Service

What warranties come with solar panels?

Solar installations include multiple warranties:

• Panel performance warranty: 25 years (typically 85% production guaranteed)
• Panel product warranty: 10-25 years against defects
• Inverter warranty: 10-25 years depending on brand/model
• Installation workmanship: 10 years from Pacific Edge
• Roof penetration warranty: 10 years

All warranties are transferable to future homeowners.

What if there's a problem with my system?

Pacific Edge provides ongoing support for all installations. If issues arise, contact us at (650) 451-8464. Most problems are diagnosed remotely via monitoring. If service is needed, we dispatch technicians promptly. Equipment failures under warranty are repaired/replaced at no cost. Our 10-year workmanship warranty covers any installation-related issues.

Who handles repairs during the warranty period?

Pacific Edge handles all warranty claims and repairs. We coordinate directly with equipment manufacturers for warranty replacements and perform all service work. You have a single point of contact - us - rather than dealing with multiple manufacturers. This is a key advantage of working with an established local company.

Environmental & Community

How much does solar reduce carbon emissions?

The average Bay Area residential solar system (6 kW) offsets approximately 7,500-9,000 pounds of CO2 annually - equivalent to planting 200 trees each year or driving 9,000 fewer miles. Over 25 years, a single home solar system eliminates over 100 tons of CO2 emissions. This is one of the most impactful actions an individual can take to address climate change.

Are solar panels recyclable?

Yes! Solar panels are approximately 95% recyclable. The aluminum frames, glass, and silicon cells can all be recovered and reused. While panel recycling infrastructure is still developing, programs exist for end-of-life panel management. By the time your panels need replacement (25-30 years), recycling will be standard practice.

Does Pacific Edge support the local community?

Yes! As a locally owned Bay Area company since 2014, we're invested in our community's future. We support local schools, participate in community events, and work with non-profit organizations to bring solar energy to underserved communities. We employ local workers, use local suppliers when possible, and contribute to the Bay Area economy. Learn more on our About page.

Still Have Questions?

Our solar experts are here to help! Every home and situation is unique, and we're happy to discuss your specific questions and concerns.

Call us: (650) 451-8464
Email: [email protected]
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