Solar energy is generated through the conversion of sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells, typically made from silicon, absorb photons (particles of light) from the sun. The energy from these photons knocks electrons loose from their atoms, creating an electric current. This current is then captured and directed through wiring to power homes, businesses, and other electrical devices. In essence, solar panels harness the sun’s energy to produce clean and renewable electricity without emitting any harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases.

Solar energy offers significant financial benefits through reduced electricity bills, increased property value, and potential income from excess energy generation. By generating your own electricity, you can offset or even eliminate your monthly electricity costs. Additionally, many regions offer incentives such as tax credits, rebates, and net metering programs, which allow you to sell excess energy back to the grid. Over time, the initial investment in solar panels can lead to substantial long-term savings while contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Absolutely! All solar panels meet international inspection and testing standards, and a qualified installer will install them to meet local building, fire, and electrical codes. Also, your solar energy system will undergo a thorough inspection from a certified electrician as part of the installation process. 

A working PV panel has a strong encapsulant that prevents chemicals from leaching, similar to how defroster elements are sealed in a car windshield. Occasionally, a solar panel may break due to weather or other events. According to the International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Technology Collaboration Program, any lead and cadmium exposure from broken solar panels in residential, commercial, and utility-scale systems would be below the acceptable limit set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for soil, air, and groundwater.

The easiest way to find out how much you pay for electricity (and how much electricity you use per month) is to take a look at your utility electricity bill. In the usage section, it will tell you how many Kilowatt Hours (kWh)  you’ve used in a certain period. It usually also shows trends through-out the year and seasonal increases.

Solar panels convert sunshine into power, so if your panels are covered in snow they cannot produce electricity. Snow generally isn’t heavy enough to cause structural issues with your panels, and since most panels are tilted at an angle the snow will slide off. If snow does accumulate, your panels are easy to clean.

Studies (Zillow, Forbes,  that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own, rather than lease, your solar panel system. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.

If you can afford to pay your electricity bill you can afford to go solar.

$0 Cash Down Programs offered through LightSkye Energy make it easy for homeowners with good credit to start saving on their electricity bills by going solar.