Author Archives: kerry

An overview of smart modules

Many solar companies recommend pairing a solar array with power optimizers and a central inverter to enhance the performance of a solar panel system. While many people install power optimizers and panels as separate components, your installer may recommend a solar panel that integrates both components into one, also known as a smart module.

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String inverters vs. power optimizers vs. microinverters: what you need to know

As you consider a solar panel system for your home, one of the key decisions you need to make is the type of inverter to install. Inverters convert direct current (DC) electricity generated by your solar panels into usable alternating current (AC) electricity. Given the complex power electronics and software contained within, inverters are vital to the ongoing performance of your solar power system.

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5 solar shopping tips for environmentalists

Generating electricity with your own rooftop solar panel system is one of the most effective ways to reduce your personal carbon footprint. In fact, the average solar panel system can help offset three to four tons of carbon emissions annually–for perspective, the impact of those carbon reductions is similar to planting more than 100 trees each year!

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How does solar panel degradation impact savings?

The word “degradation” can be scary, but don’t let it frighten you too much: every product, from your cell phone to your shoes, degrades over time, and solar panels are no exception to this rule. Fortunately, solar panels degrade at a very slow rate relative to other technologies – in fact, even after 25 years, most solar panels will still generate at least 80 percent of their original solar power output!

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Sungage Financial solar loans: the complete review

Solar loans are the fastest growing method of financing a solar panel installation. Across the country, the majority of new solar installations are purchased with either a cash purchase or through a solar loan. Sungage Financial, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a popular financier in the residential solar industry. If you’re comparing solar quotes from a few different solar installers, you may have received a loan option from Sungage. Here’s what you need to know about Sungage and their products.

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Q&A with Blue Planet Energy: the Blue Ion HI

The energy storage industry is always evolving, and new and improved battery options for homeowners come out constantly. Take Blue Planet Energy, for example – this innovative company out of Hawaii recently released with a sleek new product called the Blue Ion HI. We recently (and virtually) sat down with Blue Planet Energy to learn more about their newest offering, and to hear about what’s coming up next for the company.

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