Homeowners contemplating solar power in NJ might wonder if solar is as good as electricity, and if a solar power investment can lead to slowdowns or a loss of power. Understanding how solar power systems work can help answer some of your most commonly asked questions about solar installation for a home or office!
Remember to discuss these and other questions you have with a solar panel installer, as he or she can help you make the right decision about solar installation. With their advice and input, you’ll be happy with your decision for years to come!
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How Do Solar Panels Work?
First note how solar panels in NJ produce electricity used your home or commercial structure. Solar panels contain what are called photovoltaic cells. Those cells harness photons in sunlight and generate a flow of electrons. Silicon directs those electrons to create electricity.
This electricity is called direct current, or DC power. Since most electrical appliances and other equipment use what is called alternating current or AC power, that electricity flow is sent through an inverter, which changes it from DC to AC current.
How Do Solar Panels Power a Property?
If you use a solar power system for camping or powering a small RV or other such equipment, those panels and their inverter will be attached to a battery. As with standard household batteries, solar panels recharge the battery continuously. You would then plug your electrical systems into that battery.
Home solar or solar panels for a commercial structure are not typically connected to batteries, however. The power produced those panels is sent back to a power plant through what is called net metering.
Net metering has your home’s power meter crediting your account for the power produced those solar panels. In turn, your home or commercial structure is still connected to the city power supply and has its electricity supplied that plant, not your solar panels. Your monthly bill is adjusted accordingly; for instance, if you use $100 worth of electricity but your panels produce $70 worth of power, you would get a bill for that $30 difference.
Is Solar Power as Good as Electricity?
If you’re considering a solar power system for an RV, camping, or other smaller application, note that it will supply the same type of power as an outlet in the wall. However, it’s also vital to remember that those solar panels need sunlight to produce electricity for recharging your batteries. They might then slow down or run out of power during winter months, rainy weather, and the like.
For residential or commercial solar power in NJ, your property is still connected to the city power supply. You should never experience slowdowns, loss of power, or other interruptions except when weather conditions or disasters shut down that power plant or bring down a power line.
The bottom line is that investing in solar panels doesn’t mean relying on them for all your power needs. You’ll still be getting your electricity from the city power plant, but will see a credit on your bill for whatever power those panels produce.
Is Solar Power in NJ Worth It?
Most homeowners who invest in solar power in NJ might see a savings of a few thousand dollars over the lifetime of solar ownership, on average. While this might not seem like a lot of money, note that there are many other advantages to investing in solar power systems in addition to the money you might save!
One vital reason to consider solar is that electric power plants produce tons of fumes and emissions. While electricity is a “clean” energy source without fumes, emissions, or pollutants, those plants might use coal, oil, or another “dirty” fuel source to create that power. Investing in solar means being responsible for less air pollution overall.
Net metering also allows you to invest in new appliances or production equipment with less worry about increased energy costs. If you’ve always dreamed of chef-inspired appliances for a kitchen and a heated whirlpool tub in the bathroom, or know your manufacturing facility needs new equipment, consider solar power! This can allow you to upgrade as needed without the added cost of increased energy bills.
Solar panel installation is very labor-intensive and not a job a company can outsource. Investing in solar power systems for your home or business can then create jobs and support your local economy.
Can Anyone Invest in Solar Power in NJ?
Solar power in NJ isn’t necessarily the right choice for every property owner, as solar panels need lots of direct sunlight to create power. If a home’s roof has lots of peaks and gables, or if a production facility’s roof is obscured trees, billboards, and the like, panels might not receive enough sun exposure to produce sufficient power.
Some structures also might not provide sufficient space for solar panels. The roof of a small home or commercial building might not offer enough room for all the solar panels you need. A solar installer can typically install panels in the ground or even along a wall, but this also might not be a solution for undersized properties or those obscured various obstructions.
Do You Get a Tax Credit for Solar Power in NJ?
Some federal tax credits, including those for investing in solar panels, meant to be phased out in the early 2020s were extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since tax credits differ from year to year, it’s vital that you speak to an accountant about any potential deductions for which you’re eligible before investing in solar power.
A solar panel installer can also inform you about other ways to save on the cost of new solar panels. For example, he or she might know of manufacturer rebates or closeout deals, which would lower your solar panel investment cost.
Some installers also offer low-cost financing or leasing for solar power in NJ. Using their financing or leasing your panels can mean little to no money upfront and low monthly payments for those panels, maximizing your energy cost savings! Whatever the case, don’t hesitate to ask them for suggestions on how to better afford the solar panel system you want for your property.
