Solar 101
Whether you’re exploring or ready to go solar, this guide covers how it works, why it matters, and how you will benefit.
Solar 101
Residential Solar FAQ
Everything you need to know before going solar with Solar Homes 360.
Can solar panels power my entire house, and what system size do I need?
A properly sized system can significantly reduce or offset your electricity costs. The right size depends on your energy usage, roof space, and sun exposure. Our team provides a customized recommendation for your home.
Will installing solar affect my home’s value?
Owning a solar system can increase resale value by lowering future electricity costs. Leased or PPA systems may have less impact, depending on buyer preferences.
Do I need a new roof before going solar?
A roof in good condition is important since solar panels last 25–35 years. Newly installed roofs are ideal. We offer free inspections and can connect you with roofing professionals if needed. Some financing options allow bundling roof and solar costs.
Does solar work in cold or snowy climates?
Yes! Solar generates electricity from sunlight, not heat. Snow typically melts off panels, and cold temperatures can even improve efficiency. Systems produce energy year-round.
How does solar energy work and can it operate during power outages?
Panels capture sunlight as DC electricity, which an inverter converts to AC for your home. Standard systems shut off during outages for safety, but special inverters can provide backup power.
Do solar panels require maintenance and how long do they last?
Minimal maintenance is needed—rain and wind clean debris naturally. Panels are durable and designed to last 25–35 years.
What are the financial benefits and incentives for going solar?
Solar lowers electricity costs, provides long-term price stability, and may qualify you for federal and state incentives, including the Inflation Reduction Act. Savings vary depending on system size, financing, and local utility rates.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels?
It depends on your goals:
- Purchase (Cash/Loan): You own the system, qualify for tax credits, and may increase home value.
- Lease/PPA: Little to no upfront cost, enjoy solar savings without maintenance, but you don’t own the system.
What is net metering?
Extra electricity your system produces is sent back to the grid and credited to your utility account, reducing overall energy costs.
What does the solar installation process involve?
From consultation to activation, we handle permitting, design, utility approvals, and installation. Our streamlined process ensures minimal disruption to your daily life.
How much will I save with solar?
We calculate annual savings based on your electricity usage and provide a free, customized quote. Solar is recommended only if it’s the right fit for your home.
What installation options are available?
You can:
- Own the system outright (cash)
- Use a solar loan
- Sign a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
- Lease your roof to a solar investor
Our team reviews all options to find the best fit for your home.
Still have questions? Get in touch for a solar analysis and project review. We’re here to help you make a smart, confident decision.
Solar Incentives
Lower Your Cost
—The Smart Way
Solar savings don’t come from a single incentive—they come from understanding all the programs, credits, and utility rules that apply to your home.
Solar Homes 360 helps homeowners identify and take advantage of every available state, local, and utility-based program, while designing systems that maximize long-term savings—not just short-term promises.
Our goal is simple: help you make a confident decision without overpromising or leaving money on the table.
State & Utility Programs
Available programs can vary by location and utility provider. We help you understand what applies to your home and how it impacts your overall savings.
Net Metering & Bill Credits
How your system interacts with the grid matters. We design systems with utility rules in mind to help maximize the value of the energy you produce.
Financing That Preserves Cash
Loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs) can reduce upfront costs and improve monthly cash flow—when structured correctly.
Smart System Design
The right system size, layout, and technology can have as much impact on savings as any incentive.
Solar Terms
Terms & Definitions
Understand the language of solar so you can make informed decisions.
Common Terms
- Alternating Current (AC): Electricity used by the grid and your devices. Solar panels produce DC, which is converted to AC by inverters.
- Direct Current (DC): Electricity generated by solar panels and stored in batteries before conversion to AC.
- Inverters: Devices that convert solar DC power into usable AC electricity.
- Microinverter: Converts power at the panel level for better system performance.
- String Inverter: A central inverter connected to a group (or “string”) of panels.
- Interconnection: The process of connecting your solar system to the utility grid.
- Net Metering: A billing system that credits you for excess solar energy sent back to the grid.
- Kilowatt-hour (kWh): The unit of energy used to measure power consumption or generation.
Other Helpful Terms
- Electric Vehicles (EV): Cars powered by electricity, often charged via solar.
- NABCEP: The top certification for solar professionals.
- Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): Credits for generating green electricity.
- Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): A no-upfront-cost solar plan where you pay only for the energy used.
Incentives & Policies
- Investment Tax Credit (ITC): A federal tax credit that covers 30% of eligible solar project costs.
- Bonus ITC: Extra credit for projects using U.S. materials or built in energy communities.
- MACRS Depreciation: Tax deduction for commercial solar systems.
- Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): Expands solar incentives and supports clean energy development.
- REAP (Rural Energy for America Program): USDA-backed grants and loans for rural businesses.
- C-PACE Financing: Solar loan paid via property tax—ideal for nonprofits and commercial properties.
System Types & Components
- Photovoltaic (PV): Solar technology that converts sunlight into electricity.
- Fixed-Tilt Array: Panels fixed at an angle to maximize sun exposure.
- Racking & Mounting: Hardware that secures solar panels to roofs or ground surfaces.
- In-Front-of-Meter (IFM): Utility-scale solar that feeds energy directly to the grid.
- Behind-the-Meter (BTM): On-site solar that powers your building first, reducing grid use.
