Do I need a city permit to install solar panels in Maryland?
In most cases, yes. Your Renewable Energy Corp. solar contractor will take care of this for you. Installing solar panels in Baltimore and other Maryland communities is easier when you have Renewable Energy Corporation navigating the permit process for you.
How much energy do solar panels produce?
Your home’s solar energy production can vary based on the size of your system and its location. To get an accurate estimate, request a free solar consultation.
How many solar panels do I need for my house?
It depends on your current energy bills are and your energy goals. Most residential solar installations are between 2 kW and 10 kW. A typical solar panel installation provides between 40% and 60% of the household’s energy.
Learn More: Request an analysis of your home’s solar capacity.
How much roof space do solar panels require?
Solar panels are modular, meaning your system can be scaled to fit your roof. Generally, each kW of PV takes up about 100 square feet of roof space. A typical 5kW system, for example, would require 500 square feet of roof space.
Can I install a solar system myself?
We do not recommend a DIY home solar energy system. Maryland building codes require a licensed electrician to connect your PV system to the grid. City codes may also apply. Do-it-yourself solar kits are more complicated than many homeowners realize and can results in serious expenses and risks.
The expert solar installers at Renewable Energy Corporation will your system is well designed and qualifies for the maximum possible rebates and other incentives.
How long do solar panels last?
The American-made solar panels we install are high-quality panels with a life expectancy of more than 30 years. We guarantee the power output for the first 25 years of operation. 97% of power during the first year; and afterward, the power will not decrease by more than 0.7 percent of the rated power per year.
So at year 3, the Sunmodule’s capacity is guaranteed to be at least 95.6% of the nameplate as opposed to the industry standard guarantee of 90%. And at year 20, it’s still at least 83% as opposed to the industry standard 80%.
What kind of solar panel maintenance is required?
PV panel maintenance is amazingly simple. Many homeowners wish to clean solar panels regularly, but other than that, no routine maintenance of solar panels is necessary.
Do solar panels break easily?
No. Our solar panels are extremely rugged. The SolarWorld Sunmodules we install are made from tempered, shatterproof glass. They’re engineered to withstand hail storms with one-inch hail striking at more 50 mph. These durable PV panels can survive snow loads up to 112psf.
Do solar panel systems work on rainy days?
Yes, your home solar system will provide some power on rainy or overcast days. However, you might get maximum output. On days when the sun isn’t shining, the electric grid will provide reliable electricity to your home.
Are photovoltaic systems difficult to operate?
Not at all! Once installed, your solar PV system works automatically. You get reliable electricity and incredible convenience and ease-of-use.
Can I mount solar panels on the ground?
Yes, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems are ideal for many homeowners. Consult with your solar installer at Renewable Energy Corp. to discuss your options.
Learn more: Find out if ground-mounted solar panels are right for your home.
Do solar panels take more energy to manufacture than they produce?
No, this is a common misconception. A typical solar installation will provide an “energy payback” in 1-3 years.
Can my city or HOA prohibit me from having solar panels on my roof?
This depends on where you live. To learn about Maryland solar regulations, visit http://www.DSIREUSA.org.
Will my home solar panels provide back-up power if the power goes out?
In most cases, no. In Maryland, solar PV installations are usually connected to the grid, which means if the power grid goes down, you’ll lose electric power, too. Battery banks and switchable inverters are available for back-up power; however, these systems can cost extra. Ask your solar installers for details.
Learn More: Read about solar inverters
Learn More: Read about solar energy storage
What’s the largest solar panel system I can buy?
The maximum size of system you can install will depend on the amount of appropriate roof and/or ground space available and how much you want to spend. Most of our installations are sized for optimum savings, rather than maximum size and most incentives will only cover up to the amount of electricity your home or business actually uses on an annualized basis.
How heavy are solar panels?
Our Sunmodule 235 panels weigh about 48 pounds each.
