A blended electricity rate combines multiple usage-based electricity costs into a single cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Understanding this rate can provide a useful starting point when evaluating solar by helping you estimate potential savings, calculate payback and compare solar-generated electricity with grid power. However, rate structures, fixed charges and when you use electricity can also affect solar economics, making your actual energy-use patterns an important…
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Solar power scams have become more common as residential solar installations have increased. Some of the most common scams include misleading “free solar” offers, false claims about government programs, exaggerated savings estimates, hidden financing terms, solar lease scams, and unnecessary repair recommendations. Fortunately, most scams follow familiar patterns. By researching installers, asking questions, reviewing contracts carefully, and getting multiple quotes, homeowners can protect themselves and…
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New York homeowners have several options for making solar more affordable, including NYSERDA financing and incentives, Power Purchase Agreements and state tax credits. Eligible homeowners may qualify for the New York State Solar Energy System Equipment Credit, which covers 25% of eligible solar costs up to $5,000. These programs can help reduce upfront costs or spread the cost of a solar investment over time. The…
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Staying on top of your system with consistent solar system monitoring is one of the easiest ways to protect your energy production and long-term savings. By using your solar panel monitoring system to catch issues early, you can avoid unexpected drops in performance and keep everything running efficiently. Once your solar power system is up and running, it’s easy to assume everything will take care…
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While solar panels constantly collect solar energy and generate electricity year-round, not all months are equal in terms of power production. Factors like hours of sunlight per day, the angle of the sun’s rays, and even the temperature can meaningfully affect solar energy production during certain times of year, so the question remains: Which months are the best for solar energy production? The short answer…
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If your solar company went out of business, you’re not out of options. Many orphaned solar systems can still be serviced, repaired, monitored, and maintained by an experienced solar provider. In this article, we explain what a solar orphan system is, common issues homeowners face, what paperwork and warranty information to gather, and how to find a trusted company to help. We also cover how…
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Solar panels need maintenance to continue operating safely, efficiently, and at peak performance. From annual inspections and solar diagnostics to repairs, inverter optimization, warranty support, and orphan system assistance, proactive maintenance helps identify issues early, reduce costly repairs, and protect your long-term investment. Understanding the maintenance services available can help maximize energy production and extend the life of your solar power system. One of the…
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A solar system warranty can protect homeowners from equipment defects, installation-related issues, and certain component failures, but coverage varies by provider. Learn what warranties typically cover, what can void them, how annual inspections help prevent problems, and why owners of orphaned solar systems still have options when service or warranty support is needed. While today’s solar panels and equipment are built to last, no system…
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Solar inverters don’t get nearly as much attention as solar panels, but they’re one of the most important parts of any solar power system. When an inverter begins experiencing issues, it can affect everything from energy production to overall system reliability. In this article, we’ll explain what solar inverters do, common problems they experience, what their typical lifespan looks like, and what homeowners should know…
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