Solar Electric FAQsexpand/collapse all answers
I've seen some unattractive solar electric installations. Do they need to be so ugly?
Absolutely not. At SunStream USA, we design every installation with an eye toward balancing the shape of the solar module field and the shape of your roof surface to create a system that works with the aesthetics of your home - and your budget.
Is the Northeast a good place for solar energy?
Yes, it's surprisingly good. In fact, we receive about 70 percent of the solar energy received in sunny San Diego because we have a coastal weather pattern.
How much does a solar electric system cost?
It depends on current utility rebates and other incentives.
What kind of payback can I expect from my investment?
With the federal tax credit as well as state, local incentives and utility rebates, you can save thousands in energy costs your first year: that's an immediate return of about 10 percent of your net installation costs.
Does the installation of a solar electric system hurt my home's value?
Actually, it's just the opposite. According to the Appraisal Institute, installing renewable energy systems will raise the value of your property by a multiple of twenty times a dollar of avoided utility cost per year.
What happens if my system produces more electricity than I am using at that moment?
The excess electricity flows back out over your existing electric lines—and spins your meter backwards. You earn a credit at your high retail rate until the sun goes down and your meter spins forward again.
What's the expected lifetime of a solar electric system?
You can probably expect your system to last between 25 to 35 years. The panels come with a 25 year warranty.
Will my solar electric system operate when my utility has an outage?
For safety reasons, your solar electric system must stop producing power when the electric grid is out. Battery backup systems are available and allow you to continue producing and using electricity from your solar array during a power outage.
What happens if the sun doesn't shine?
Your system will continue to produce electricity during cloudy weather and during the winter, although the total amount will be reduced. Power will automatically be provided through LIPA at night or during inclement weather.
How does shade affect my solar electric system?
Proper placement of your system is critical to your system's output. Your SunStream USA professional therefore pays careful attention to shade-producing environmental elements such as trees, chimneys, TV antennas / satellite dishes, dormers of the house, plumbing, vents, etc., when designing your system.
Is the system hurricane proof?
We carefully plan, design and install your system to ensure it will have no negative impact on your home's ability to withstand hurricane winds and that it will survive any storm your home survives.
Are there permits required?
SunStream USA works with all local code authorities to obtain any required permits.
