Author Archives: emily

Are solar panels worth it in 2022?

Last updated: 04/04/2022

Like any major investment, installing a solar energy system is a big decision! But, as the cost of solar continues to decline and new energy bills make purchasing more attractive, this decision to go with solar over other fossil-fuel-based methods of energy production is becoming easier and easier. For most people, going solar now represents a smart long-term investment with substantial savings. Depending on a variety of factors, you could save $1,200 on your electricity bills in the first year of going solar. However, before installing a solar panel system, you’ll want to make sure that you can take advantage of these benefits by first considering a few major factors. In this article, we’ll help you answer the question: “Is it worth it to buy solar panels?”

Ultimately, the answer to that question is: it depends. There are few circumstances where someone can definitively say that solar panels aren’t for them without exploring their options and getting an evaluation from a licensed, reputable installer. Even renters may have solar options if their property owners or managers are open to it. Keep reading to learn if solar is really worth getting for you and your situation. 

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The FranklinWH battery complete review

Energy storage is becoming an increasingly popular addition to residential solar installations, and more and more companies have started offering storage solutions. In 2022, FranklinWH debuted their first storage product: the aPower. Unlike many other storage options on the market, the aPower must be installed with FranklinWH’s load management system, the aGate. As FranklinWH states, this Home Power Solution (the aPower + aGate) “interfaces between the grid, the loads, the generator and the solar system,” allowing you to more easily monitor and control the loads that your storage system is powering. 

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We read Northern Electric Power’s warranty so you don’t have to

Let’s face it – warranties aren’t the easiest (or most gripping) documents to read. There are often a lot of details, and fine print included that can be hard to digest, leaving many to wonder: what does the warranty actually cover? Am I vulnerable? Anything I might be missing?

To make it as easy as possible, we’ve read warranty documents for the top inverter equipment manufacturers–and talked to them to confirm what is and isn’t included–and plan to point out the most important aspects of each in a series of articles. In this article, we’ll break down the warranty from a US microinverter company: Northern Electric Power (NEP).

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Is your home a good fit for solar? Why community solar could work for you

Home solar power is more popular than ever in the United States. It’s no wonder homeowners love being powered by the sun: when you install a solar system, you can save money on your electricity bills, increase your property value, and do your part to protect the environment. If you’re starting to think about going solar, knowing that your home and solar are a good match makes the shopping process even easier (and helps protect you from some unexpected cost increases after a site visit).

However, there are instances in which your house isn’t a good fit for solar – in this article, we’ll explain how you can decide if you’re a good fit and why we think community solar is the best alternative if not. 

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Rising natural gas prices: what to expect

As we kick off winter 2021-2022, you’re probably anticipating a jump in your heating bill due to dropping temperatures. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), it’s actually slated to be a warmer winter than usual, with above-average temperatures predicted across most of the U.S. due to LA Niña climate conditions – but you should still be prepared for higher than normal heating and electricity bills due to the rising cost of natural gas – and other fossil fuels – across the world. In this article, we’ll explain why natural gas prices are increasing, where the increases are most dramatic, and how you can protect yourself from the volatility of fossil fuel energy sources (spoiler alert: going solar will help!). 

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Q&A with dcbel

If you’re looking to electrify your home, you might be confused by the various components you need and how they all fit together. dcbel, a Canadian company, is trying to make the home electrification process easier with their Home Energy Station – a product that serves as an electric vehicle (EV) charger, solar inverter, and storage inverter. We sat down with dcbel to learn more about their company, the Home Energy Station, and their advice for homeowners. 

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What’s happening with net metering in Florida? Breaking down House Bill 741

Colloquially referred to as the “Sunshine State,” Florida doesn’t disappoint: on average, about two-thirds of Florida days are sunny! Florida has risen to the top of solar states with its ample sunshine, coming in at third in the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)’s list of top 10 states with cumulative solar electric capacity installed through 2021. 

However, the Florida House and Senate just passed House Bill (HB) 741, which has the potential to damage Florida’s solar industry significantly. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know about HB 741 and what it could mean for you if you’re a Florida resident.

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The Coalition for Community Solar Access: what you need to know

Going solar is a great way to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels – while saving money! But what about the almost 80 percent of Americans who aren’t able to install solar on their properties? Whether you’re a renter, have a heavily shaded roof, or don’t want to invest in a solar system, there’s an alternative solution that can still allow you to reap the benefits of solar energy: community solar. The Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) is an organization dedicated to expanding community solar and making it more accessible across the U.S. In this article, we’ll explain the importance of this coalition and what you need to know about them.

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The Lumin Edge: what you need to know

Energy management in an emerging industry that helps you take full advantage of your solar or solar-plus-storage system. With an energy management system, you’re able to both monitor and control your energy consumption, allowing you to maximize the energy generated by your system and lower your electric bills. Lumin was one of the initial leaders in this industry with their Smart Panel that allows you to turn the ordinary circuits on your electrical panel into smart circuits. Building on that initial success, Lumin recently launched their newest energy management product that provides unique opportunity and flexibility for those who don’t want to rewire their entire electrical panel: the Lumin Edge. 

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Q&A with Northern Electric Power

The residential solar industry in the US has long been dominated by two inverter companies: Enphase and SolarEdge. However, recently, a number of inverter companies have been making headway in the US market to expand inverter technology and diversify the options available to consumers. We sat down with Northern Electric Power (NEP), an inverter company founded in the US, to learn more about their mission and their product offerings.

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