How does a Solar System work?
The foundation of any solar electric system is the solar cell. Using technology similar to semiconductors, solar cells convert sunlight into electricity without any moving parts, noise, or pollution. In order to easily install these in the field, the solar cells are connected together and encased in a protective coating in a factory to form a solar module. In the field, the solar modules are then connected together and attached to a support structure on a facility's roof, ground, or parking area to form solar arrays. Several arrays make up a solar electric system.
Once installed and exposed to the sun, the solar electric system will produce direct current (DC) electricity - the same type of electricity you get from a battery. Since most facilities use alternating current (AC) electricity, an inverter is used to convert the DC power into AC power. The AC power then flows from the inverter to the facility to power electrical loads such as lights, refrigerators, or computers, reducing the amount of power that is needed from the utility. If during daylight hours, the facility is using less electricity than the solar array is providing, net metering (available in most States) allows this excess power to flow through the utility meter to the utility grid turning the utility meter backwards, this results in a credit for you.
Why is solar a good investment?
Homeowners, businesses and government agencies are increasingly turning to solar technology as a way to reduce rising energy costs and demonstrate environmental stewardship. With the many rebates and tax incentives available today a Solar Energy Solution can be a sound investment that pays dividends long into the future.
There are many benefits to a Solar electric system. The financial benefits include cost savings, increased protection against rising energy prices, energy efficiencies, revenue from the "green" attributes of solar power, and government incentives.
If you are concerned about environmental stewardship, then switching to solar power is a logical choice, reinforcing your values. The environmental benefits of solar power stem from the fact that a solar electric system is emissions free, silent and unobtrusive.
Government Incentives:
Rebates and tax credits are available in several states and can cover up to 60% of the cost of a Solar electric system. The links below are provided to help you understand what incentives are available to you.
Montana Incentives for Renewable Energy
Montana Alternative Energy Revolving Loan Program (AERLP)
NorthWestern Energy - USB Renewable Energy Fund
NorthWestern Energy - Interconnection Agreement
Montana Solar and Wind Access Law
Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE)
Federal Residential Solar and Fuel Cell Tax Credit
Contact Us today to see if we can help you with your solar needs.
The Latest Solar Energy News
(Refresh your browser if you do not see text below)
BAODING, China----Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited , one of the world's leading vertically integrated photovoltaic product manufacturers, today announced that it has entered into a sales contract with IBC Solar AG , one of the leading specialists in PV systems worldwide.
Publ.Date : Thu, 08 May 2008 10:00:00 GMT
Solar 2008, the American Solar Energy Society’s annual conference, is under way and set to continue through May 8 at Mission Valley’s Town & Country Resort and Convention Center.
Publ.Date : Wed, 07 May 2008 21:27:37 GMT
Clear Skies Solar, Inc. (OTCBB:CSKH), a leading provider of renewable energy solutions, today announced that it will provide solar power to a Riverside County, CA, dairy farm, Scott Brothers Dairy Farms.
Publ.Date : Wed, 07 May 2008 11:28:30 GMT
|
|
