Residential Solar Basics

How does a solar installation work? Solar panels have no moving parts, but they still produce electricity directly from the sun. Panels are normally installed on a home's roof, but can be mounted on a pole or other structure. The electricity produced passes through an inverter and then to the home's electrical system. Systems can be connected to the grid or be designed with batteries to create a self-sufficient system.

What factors impact system design? In order to design the most appropriate system for each situation we take many factors into account:

• Shading: It is very important to understand the position of trees, nearby buildings, chimneys, and other objects in order to place solar panels in the best possible locations
• Orientation: The direction solar panels are facing is an important factor in maximizing their production. Large solar farms implement machinery that changes the orientation of solar panels through out the day to maximize production. These systems are generally cost prohibitive for smaller residential systems however.
• Available space: When space is at a premium high efficiency panels can be employed in order to maximize production from limited space.
• Electricity consumption: Understanding how a home consumes electricity can help to install a system that best meets the goals of the homeowner. This involves looking a past electricity bills and considering future changes such as the purchase of an electric vehicle, or the addition of a significant power draw like a hot tub or electric heating.
• Existing electrical system: We think it is important to plan for any upgrades to the home's existing electrical components before a project begins so that clients aren't surprised by additional costs during installation. In most cases this involves determining if the existing electrical panel has sufficient capacity to incorporate the addition of solar.
• Backup requirements: Batteries can add security against loss of power during storms and other outages and Empowered Solar is happy to help you understand if adding batteries is right for you now or in the future.

Residential solar incentives: Taking advantage of the 26% federal tax credit is a great way to make the switch to solar affordable. Learn more about that and other available incentives.

Solar and your roof: There are different mounting systems that make it possible to install solar on standard pitched roofs as well as flat roofs. There are options for all types of roofing material as well.

Solar monitoring: Each system comes with a monitoring system. This connects to the home's internet and you can view real-time production information as well as receive alerts in the case an issue arises.

What makes us different that other companies? Like our competitors we install solar for homes and businesses in Idaho. When you choose Empowered Solar for your installation you get a high-quality system from a local company. You save money on electricity bills, you produce your own clean energy. However, your impact doesn't stop there. We also work with local and international groups to give back to our communities and make solar accessible to everyone. Learn more about our other work here.