Greenlight Power Company (GLPC)

Frequently Asked Questions

 

How Expensive is a Solar System?

With state and federal incentives, as well as innovative financing programs, solar is not only the least expensive energy option, but it actually pays for itself in savings as well as through the additional income your system will generate for you!  Our trained solar consultants will provide a detailed analysis to determine if your home or business is a good candidate for a solar power system.

How Reliable is Solar Power?

Solar systems built today are very reliable. They have proven to be dependable sources of energy supplying megawatts of electricity for large office buildings, industrial buildings, apartment communities, mass retailers and governmental agencies throughout the Country. Some of the largest companies in the world have buildings powered by solar energy. At Greenlight Power Company we employ NABCEP certified designers and we only use equipment from highly reputable companies to insure a reliable, high-quality solar installation.

Will the Government really give Rebates and Tax Incentives for Solar Installations?

The incentives and rebates are both real and substantial. Many states and the Federal Government offer tremendous financial incentives for businesses to choose solar. The most important thing to keep in mind about these governmental programs is that they won't last forever. Now is the time to take advantage of the federal and state mandate to switch to renewable sources of energy. Once the solar adoption rate reaches a certain level, the incentives will disappear.

Should I wait for New Technology?

Now is really the best time to invest in a solar system with the combination of technology, cost and available rebates and incentives. The cost of solar equipment has come down substantially over the past five years and has begun to stabilize. In addition, solar can dramatically reduce your utility bill and will protect you from rising utility rates for years to come. Federal and state governments are currently offering generous rebates and incentives to go solar; however, these programs are designed to reward early adopters of solar power, so the rebate amount per project continues to drop as the allotted funds are consumed.

How long will the system last?

The solar panels carry manufacturer's warranties of 25 years. Other parts, such as inverters, carry 10-year warranties. In addition, Greenlight Power Company offers a warranty of at least 5 years on the system, including installation. Most solar systems far outlast their warranties. Many of the first solar systems installed more than 30 years ago are still producing high amounts of electricity.

How large a system do I need?

System sizes are based on the available roof space and the amount of electricity production you require. We can give you a quick assessment by looking at satellite photos of your property and performing an analysis of your electric bill history. Greenlight Power Company will custom design a system to meet your specific energy needs and offset as much of your utility bill as possible. Commercial systems typically range from 25-500 kW for a medium sized business.

How much power does the system produce?

Systems come in all sizes, and produce as much or as little power as required. The two biggest factors are the amount of sunlight you get throughout the day and the amount of panels you can fit on southern facing, open roof space. 

How long will it take to get my new Solar System Operational?

A typical commercial installation takes about 3-6 weeks from the day we begin the installation. The length of time depends on the complexity of your roof and the number of panels that will be installed. We will get your solar system up and running as quickly and smoothly as possible so that you can start saving money and using clean energy. You won't experience any changes inside your business. The estimated installation time and cost of the system will be included in our design proposal.

What Types of Permits are Needed to Install a Solar System?

As part of our comprehensive service, Greenlight Power Company will obtain all building permits and design your system to meet your local building codes. We'll arrange the electrical, building and utility inspections and be on-site to make sure that everything is up to code. In addition, we will help you file all applications for any available state or Federal Grants or Rebates and handle all of the paper work required by your Utility Company for interconnection. Greenlight Power takes care of your project every step of the way.

Do the Solar Panels Need to be Mounted on my Roof?

There are several different installation methods that we can provide. Panels are often mounted on the roof, but can also be mounted on the ground and on carport structures. Ground mounts are great if there is additional land available, if there are shading issues with the buildings roof, or if dormers or other obstructions limit available space on the roof. There are also roof mounted systems that do not require penetrating the roof to install.

What if my roof needs repairs after I've installed solar panels?

Solar panels should be installed on a roof that is in good condition. Prior to designing a system we will check to make sure that your roof is suitable for a solar installation. Once the solar panels are installed, they actually help to protect your roof from the elements. If you should ever need to make repairs on the roof, the solar panels will need to be removed and re-installed. Greenlight Power Company offers this service for a reasonable fee.

What Maintenance is Required?

Your solar energy system requires very little maintenance, largely because it has no moving parts. All your system requires is minimal shade, occasional cleaning and inspection. We suggest that you keep an eye on trees that may shade your system and keep them trimmed. Greenlight Power Company offers services to perform annual maintenance and to proactively monitor your system output to ensure that your system is performing as it should. In the unlikely event that your system underperforms, Greenlight Power Company will alert you and help to remedy the situation. 

Do I need a Battery Back-up System?

Battery systems are expensive and are not recommended. All Greenlight Power Company's solar installations are connected to the utility grid so you always have access to a power source. Your solar system will generate electricity during peak hours of demand but your utility will continue to supply your electricity at night, and at other times when you are using more electricity than you are generating. You won't experience any power interruptions. The switch between solar system power and the utility grid happens seamlessly, with no effort on your part. You never have to worry about running out of power.

What Happens if there is a Black Out?

In the event of a black out, your system is designed to turn off. This is a safety requirement by the utility company so that their technicians can safely repair down electrical lines.

What is Net Metering?

Net Metering is the regulatory ability to get credit for excess electricity you generate with solar energy and send back through your utility meter. Exact provisions vary by state, but the effect is to allow you to generate excess power during the day to cover the cost of electricity you use at night, without the need for batteries. In addition, some states will reimburse you if you produce more electricity than you consume.

Does a Solar System make Financial Sense for Me?

Solar is a smart financial investment because you will experience immediate savings on electrical costs and experience additional savings for years to come as electricity prices continue to rise. Our customers who purchase their system typically see a strong Return on Investment (ROI) and expect to recoup their solar system investment within 3 to 5 years. Depending on the rebates and incentives offered in your area, you may be able to pay back your system even sooner.