2655 N. Highway 89
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
ph:928-636-2201 fax: 928-636-2015
e-mail: info@evsolar.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a renewable energy
system? What size solar electric system do I need to run
my home? How much does it cost? How
difficult is it to install and manage? How long will my
solar electric system last? What about solar charging for
RV's? Can I use renewable power to pump water from a remote
well?What is a renewable energy system?
A renewable energy system uses sunlight,
wind, and/or water to produce electricity to power your home. A basic system is
comprised of four basic components: solar modules and/or wind generator, charge
controller, batteries and an inverter. Energy is collected at the home site by
the solar panels, wind generators, or hydro-electric generators and stored in
batteries for later use. When you need electricity in your home, this stored
power moves from the batteries through the inverter, which converts the power
from DC to AC. Any DC or AC appliance can be run on an alternative energy
system, including computers, televisions, and stereos.
What size solar electric system do I need to run my
home?
The recommended size of your system depends
on your power consumption. If you want to completely replace your current
electrical purchases from the utility with a solar electric system, the first
step is to calculate your power requirements. To assist you with this process,
we have designed an interactive sizing worksheet. If you design an energy efficient home, you can reduce your
electricity usage dramatically. In the real world, the majority of home systems
range from 2 kW to 4 kW. Where you live, whether or not you are on the grid or off the grid, and how
you live will dictate the size of your system and its total
cost.
How much does it cost?
System size and cost are directly related
to the number of appliances used and the length of time they are used. Simply
put, the power collected must at least equal the power consumed. By analysis of
the expected electrical loads, the experienced technicians at EV Solar can size
the system to provide what the homeowner needs and can afford. This can be
significantly less than the cost of providing a new line from the utility grid
or continuously running a large generator.
Beyond the initial cost of the system
components, there are no monthly electric bills. You are eligible for a
one-time Arizona State tax credit, Federal tax credit, and utility rebate (if
within local, Arizona Public Service -APS- territory). The system will continue to pay for itself by providing
reliable electrical service for many years.
Please go to our list of
Suggested Systems for pricing
information.
How difficult is the system to install and
manage?
The new, state-of-the-art alternative
energy systems are remarkably simple and reliable. Homeowners with average
mechanical abilities can easily install and maintain their own systems. Based
on 17 years of experience building and living in stand alone, energy
independent homes, the professionals at EV Solar can also provide installation,
maintenance and repair services. Generally, installation by EV technicians is
calculated as 20% of the total cost of materials.
How long will my solar electric system
last?
Solar modules have been tested in
controlled settings and in the field, with results showing module lifetimes in
excess of 20 years. We sell panels manufactured by Shell Solar (formerly
Siemens), which carry a 25 year warranty. Other system components have varied
lifetimes. Batteries can last from 6 to 15 years, depending on care. The
electronic components, being the most sensitive, will last anywhere from 3 to
20 years.
Can I use renewable power to pump water from a remote
well?
Self-contained remote power systems for
well pumping and remote communications have long been a cost effective and
reliable solution to a basic requirement.
New advances in solar pumps have pushed the
range of these energy efficient systems to even greater depths. State tax
incentives and the offset savings on electrical infrastructure offer an added
value. Careful analysis of the options available matched with the site
conditions will provide the best return for your money. The solar professionals
at EV Solar can help you do just that.
If you have a question not covered above,
please send an e-mail to EV Solar
Products. Or call us at 928-636-2201.
You might also want to check out our
links page for a list of renewable energy resources on
the web.
