Denver Solar Now Serving the Denver CO Area

1. How do Xcel rebates, State and Federal tax credits pay for up to 65% of the installation cost?
At this time, Xcel Energy is offering a standard rebate of $2.00 per watt. Please check the website to determine the Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) rate that is paid in addition to the rebate. The State of Colorado has waived the 2.9% tax on solar equipment and the IRS has provided a Federal tax credit, not a deduction, of 30% of the out-of-pocket costs of the solar system. Equipment depreciation may apply to your commercial system.

2. How does solar power work?
Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells that collect sunlight and create direct current (DC) electricity. A component called an inverter converts the DC to alternating current (AC) for seamless use in your home or business.

3. What does grid-tie system mean?
A solar electric or PV system by which the solar panels generate the electricity and supply it to the grid of your utility company is a grid-tie system. This system allows you to have electricity during the evenings and on cloudy days when your solar system is not producing enough.

4. Do I need a south-facing roof?
Not necessarily. Unshaded east- or west-facing roofs will perform reasonably well. Of course, a south-facing roof will give optimum production.

5. Will I still have electricity when the power goes out?
No. If there is a power outage, the solar system will automatically shut down to avoid injury to any utility employee who may be working on the line. Your system is connected to the electrical grid servicing your area while you are generating your own power. Think of the utility company as your "bank" storing your solar generated electricty.

6. Can I use PV solar panels to heat water or for heating?
No, unless such heating is generated by electrical heaters. The system is not a solar thermal hot water heater or space heater.

7. Do solar panels produce electricity on cloudy days and at night?
On cloudy days, your production may not be as much as on sunny days. Solar electric production requires sunlight (ultraviolet rays), not heat; so the brighter, the better.

8. How much will I save off my electricity bill?
Your savings will depend upon the size of the solar electric system and your lifestyle. You can select a size that will offset a portion of your usage, or all of it.

9. When can l expect to pay off the system?
It depends on the current rising utility rates; the faster the rise, the sooner the pay-off period, especially if your utility company uses a tiered rate. Consult with your Denver Solar Now personnel for an individualized cost/benefit analysis and site evaluation free of charge.

10. How much will a solar electric system cost?
A solar electric system ranges from $5,000 to $20,000 out-of-pocket, depending on the size of the system, and after rebates and credits. Denver Solar Now offers turn-key systems which means the price includes installation, permitting, engineering reports and rebate paperwork. You may want to arrange for a lease of the solar system. Consult with your Denver Solar Now respresentative.