Faq

Is Solar Worth It?

Solar is worth it if you live in a sunny area, have high energy bills, and plan to stay in your home long-term. Upfront costs can be high, but savings and incentives make it pay off in 1-3 years. It also boosts property value and reduces your carbon footprint.

Need some guidance on having a solar system installed

Here’s a brief guide to installing solar:

1. Evaluate Needs: Check your roof size and electricity usage.
2. Get Quotes: Compare prices and services from multiple installers.
3. Check Incentives: Look for tax credits or rebates to reduce costs.
4. Choose Financing: Decide between paying upfront, financing, or leasing.
5. Installation: Installers will design and set up your system, handle permits, and connect it to the grid.
6. Activation: After inspection, your system is activated, and you start saving.

Don’t forget to monitor performance and ask about warranties!

Whats the Right time to get into Solar system?

The best time to go solar is when energy prices are high, you plan to stay in your home long-term, and there are strong incentives (like tax credits or rebates) available. Sunny weather helps too, but it’s a good investment any time if those conditions align.

On Grid Solar System and it’s Bill impact

An on-grid solar system is connected to the utility grid, allowing you to generate electricity while still drawing power from the grid when needed.

Bill Impact:

• Reduced Bills: Solar energy offsets your electricity usage, lowering monthly utility bills.
• Net Metering: Excess power can be sent back to the grid, earning credits to further reduce bills.
• Savings: Over time, your savings grow, especially in areas with high electricity rates and good sunlight.

In essence, an on-grid solar system can significantly lower your bills and provide long-term savings.

Solar Setup Grid Tied or Hybrid?

When deciding between a Grid-Tied and a Hybrid Solar System, here’s a quick breakdown:

Grid-Tied Solar System:

• Pros:
  • Lower Upfront Cost: No battery needed, cheaper to install.
  • Net Metering: Excess power is sent back to the grid, earning credits.
  • No Maintenance for Storage: No need to worry about battery upkeep.
• Cons:
  • No Power During Outages: You rely on the grid for backup power, so you won’t have electricity if the grid goes down.

Hybrid Solar System (with battery storage):

• Pros:
  • Energy Independence: Stores excess power for use at night or during outages.
  • Backup Power: Keeps your home running during grid failures.
• Cons:
  • Higher Cost: Battery storage adds to the initial setup cost.
  • Maintenance: Batteries may need maintenance or replacement over time.

Which to Choose?

• Grid-Tied is ideal if you want a lower-cost setup and are okay with grid outages.
• Hybrid is better if you want backup power and are willing to invest in batteries for added reliability.

Ideal mounting angle of solar Panels

The ideal solar panel angle is typically equal to your latitude. For better performance:

• Summer: Tilt 10–15° lower than your latitude.
• Winter: Tilt 10–15° higher than your latitude.
  Fixed mounts work for most, but adjustable mounts optimize year-round performance.

Looking to install solar panel in this extreme heat

Solar panels can handle extreme heat, but to optimize performance, choose high-quality panels with a low temperature coefficient, ensure proper ventilation, and install the inverter in a shaded area. Proper setup will still provide good energy output in hot conditions.

Should I go for a Solar System?

If you want to save on electricity bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase home value, a solar system is a great option. It’s especially worth it if you live in a sunny area, have high energy costs, and plan to stay in your home long-term. Incentives like tax credits can also make it more affordable.

N type technology in solar panels

N-type solar panels use negatively doped silicon, offering higher efficiency and better performance in heat and low light compared to traditional P-type panels. They are more durable, with less light-induced degradation (LID), but come at a higher cost. N-type is a great choice if you’re looking for long-term performance and efficiency.

I have installed on grid system but now power outage is common in my area, what should i do now

If you’re experiencing outages with your on-grid system, it’s because on-grid systems shut off during power loss to protect utility workers. To get backup power, consider upgrading to a hybrid system with battery storage. This will allow you to store excess energy for use during outages. Contact your installer for options to add storage or backup solutions.

11. What is the best angle for solar panels in Karachi?

While the ideal angle for solar panels in Karachi is typically between 30–35 degrees, installing them at a 10–15 degree tilt can still work effectively, especially if your primary focus is optimizing roof space or if the installation is designed for aesthetic purposes.

Here are some considerations when installing solar panels at a lower angle:

1. Roof Design: If your roof is flat or has a shallow slope, a 10–15 degree angle may be the most feasible option for installation, and it will still capture a significant amount of sunlight.

2. Energy Efficiency: At a lower tilt, the solar panels will receive less direct sunlight during certain parts of the day, especially during the winter months when the sun is lower in the sky. However, the system may still generate a good amount of power, especially in Karachi’s sunny climate.

3. Dust and Maintenance: A lower tilt may result in dust buildup on the panels, reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning and maintenance would be more important to ensure optimal performance with this installation angle.

4. Summer Performance: During the hotter months when the sun is high, the lower tilt will allow the panels to receive more sunlight during peak hours, which can help maximize energy production.

Ultimately, while a 10–15 degree tilt might not be the most efficient for year-round performance, it can still provide a solid return on investment, especially with the right maintenance and considerations for local weather conditions.

12. How long do solar panels last?

Solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years, with a gradual efficiency loss of around 0.5% per year. Most panels still produce about 80% of their original output after 25 years. Regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan and efficiency.

13. Do solar panels work in the rain?

Yes, solar panels can work in the rain. While their efficiency may be slightly reduced due to cloud cover or reduced sunlight, they still generate electricity. Rain also helps by cleaning the panels, removing dust and debris, which can improve their performance afterward. However, they perform best in direct sunlight.

14. What is the latest solar panel technology?

The latest solar panel technologies include:

1. Bifacial Panels: Capture sunlight from both sides for higher energy output.
2. PERC Technology: Increases efficiency with a rear layer that reflects more light.
3. Thin-Film Panels: Lightweight, flexible, and ideal for unique applications.
4. Perovskite Cells: Promising higher efficiency and lower manufacturing costs.
5. Transparent Panels: Can be integrated into windows, generating energy without blocking views.

These innovations improve efficiency and make solar energy more versatile.

15. What maintenance is needed for solar panels?

Solar panel maintenance is minimal but important:

1. Clean Panels regularly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Inspect for damage or loose wiring.
3. Monitor performance to track energy output.
4. Ensure no obstructions block sunlight.
5. Professional servicing as needed.

These steps help maintain efficiency and extend the lifespan of your panels.