Q: How long do photovoltaic (PV) systems last?

A: A well-designed and maintained PV system will operate for more than 20 years. The PV module, with no moving parts, has an expected lifetime exceeding 30 years. Solar power panels installed by Divine Renewable Energy are guaranteed for up to 25 years.

 Q: Can i use photovoltaics (PV) to power my home? 

A: PV can be used to power your entire home's electrical systems, including lights, cooling systems, and appliances. The most common practice is to mount solar power panels onto a south-facing roof. However, solar power panels may also be ground or pole mounted to address shading, roof space or aesthetics issues.

NOTE: Divine Renewable Energy does not recommend using photovoltaics for heating.  Instead we recommend solar thermal which will generate more heat for a given collector area. 

 Q: Can i use photovoltaics (PV) to power my business? 

A: PV systems can be blended into virtually every conceivable structure for commercial buildings. You will find PV being used outdoors for security lighting as well as in structures that serve as covers for parking lots and bus shelters, generating power at the same time. Indoors, PV systems are used to offset and operate all kinds of electrical systems, including lights, cooling systems, and appliances.

 Q:  How do i know if i have enough sunlight for photovoltaics (PV)? 

A: A PV system needs unobstructed access to the sun's rays for most or all of the day. Climate is not really a concern, because PV systems are relatively unaffected by severe weather. In fact, PV modules actually work better in colder weather. There is enough sunlight to make solar energy systems useful and effective nearly everywhere in the United States. Syracuse, New York receives about 70% of the useable sunlight as Southern California. Germany, which is farther North, has the largest and most successful solar market in the world.

 Q: How big a solar energy system do i need? 

A: The size of solar energy system you need depends on several factors such as how much electricity you use, your home or building’s sun exposure, the area available for solar panels, and how much you're willing to invest. Divine Renewable Energy will work with you to determine the type of system that suits your needs. 

Most homes and businesses have adequate roof space for a PV system.  If you don't have adequate roof space, we can employ other solar energy system designs such as ground or pole mounts. Your system will be designed specifically to your needs.

Remember an energy-efficient structure requires a smaller PV system.  Ask us about qualifying for our energy-efficiency package.

 Q: What is net metering?  

A: Net metering is a policy that allows homeowners and businesses to receive the full retail value for the electricity that their solar energy system produces. As the owner's PV system produces electricity, the kilowatts are first used for any electric appliances in the home or office. If the PV system produces more electricity than the owner needs, the excess kilowatts are fed into the utility grid and are reflected as an offset your electric bill.

 Q: How will my utility bill me once i go solar?

A: Every month you will receive a statement showing how much excess electricity you have "sold" back to the utility (by running the meter backwards), or how much net electricity you have consumed; you will also get billed a nominal connection/billing charge.

 Q: How long will it take for the system to pay for itself?

A: properly designed and installed solar energy system can pay for itself in as little as 5 to 10 years, and even faster if electric rates continue to rise.

 Q:  Does solar power increase the value of my property?

A: Yes, for every dollar saved in energy costs, your home value is estimated to rise by $20. New York has a 15 year property tax exemption for photovoltaic energy systems. (Municipalities are permitted to opt out of this exemption).

 Q: How do i take care of my solar energy system?

A: Solar Power Panel Care: There are no moving parts and thus the solar power panels require very little maintenance. The only maintenance they may require is a semi-annual washing to clear debris.

Inverter Care: The best thing you can do for your inverter is to keep it cool and clean. Take care not to let plants or debris accumulate around the inverter.

Divine Renewable Energy will provide you with an operation and maintenance manual customized for your solar energy system to help ensure optimal system production.

 Q: How can i find out if going solar is right for me?

A: The best way to find out if solar is right for you is to request a FREE solar evaluation, we will provide you with a proposal that factors in your budget requirements, the sun exposure of your home or business, and your last 12 month’s kilowatt hour (kWh) use.

Source: US DOE