Solar panels work by capturing sunlight using special cells called photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter is then used to convert this DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the type of electricity commonly used in homes and businesses. This AC electricity can then be used to power your home or business, just like the electricity you get from the grid.

The cost of solar panels can vary depending on factors such as the size of the solar system needed, which is influenced by your electricity consumption, geographical location, and roof orientation. On average, a home solar system for a typical-sized house may range from $10,000 to $15,000. To ensure the most efficient and cost-effective system design, the Amira Solar team can provide expert assistance in optimizing your solar design for maximum output while keeping costs low.

The amount of money you can save by installing solar panels will depend on several factors, including the size of your system, your electricity usage, and the cost of electricity in your area. On average, homeowners can save between $20,000 and $40,000 over the life of their solar panel system.

Financing options for residential rooftop solar include solar loans from banks, credit unions, or borrowing from your own 401K. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) offered by banks or credit unions, and unsecured or signature loans specifically designed for solar installations. HELOCs use the equity in your home to finance solar installations, while unsecured or signature loans do not require collateral. Borrowing from a 401K account allows you to be your own lender and repay the loan to yourself with interest at the market rate. It’s crucial to carefully review and compare the terms, interest rates, and repayment terms of each option to choose the best fit for your financial situation.

The accuracy of our estimate depends on inputs such as your average monthly bill, location, and roof direction. Generally, our estimates are within 10-15% of the final cost and include potential savings from tax credits and incentives. The estimate is meant to provide a general idea of the system size and cost to help you shop around. After you order solar panels, a detailed engineering assessment will be completed to determine the exact system cost based on your specific house details.

Advantages of purchasing solar panels with cash include immediate ownership and control, long-term cost savings by avoiding financing costs, and the ability to generate free, clean energy to offset electricity bills while reducing environmental impact. The return on investment (ROI) can be significant, with potential annual returns of 15-20% of your initial investment through reduced electric bills, and a payback period of 6 years or less. Additionally, cash purchase may provide potential tax benefits, and the ownership of solar panels may increase the value of the property. Overall, cash purchase of solar panels offers a financially prudent and environmentally sustainable investment for renewable energy utilization.

Yes. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, all solar installations now qualify for a generous 30% tax credit. This tax credit effectively reduces your net system cost by 30%. In Nevada, we also have a net metering rule, which allows you to export excess energy during the day and receive credits for it during the night when the sun isn’t shining.

Solar panels are designed to last for 30 years, but many panels can last even longer with proper maintenance.

To determine your average monthly bill, you can check your utility bills from the past 12 months and add up the total amount you paid for electricity. Then, divide that total by 12 to get your average monthly bill. If you do not have your past bills, you can contact your utility provider and ask for your billing history. Alternatively, you can use your online utility account to check your billing history and find your average monthly bill. If you need help determining your average monthly bill, feel free to contact us and we would be happy to assist you.

Solar panels typically require minimal maintenance, with regular cleaning recommended every 18-24 months to remove dirt, dust, and debris for optimal performance. This can typically be done by simply washing the panels with a water hose. Additionally, checking for any shading caused by trees or other objects and trimming them if necessary can help maximize the output and efficiency of the solar panels. By keeping the panels clean and free from shading, you can ensure that they continue to generate clean and renewable energy efficiently.

Net metering is a billing system that allows homeowners with solar panels to receive credit for excess electricity they produce and send back to the grid. This credit can then be used to offset the cost of electricity they use when their solar panels are not producing enough power.

Yes, you can still use electricity from the grid if you have solar panels. However, the amount of electricity you use from the grid will decrease as you generate more of your own electricity with your solar panels.

While batteries can be used to store excess energy produced by your solar panels, they are not required. Net metering allows homeowners to receive credit for excess electricity they produce and send back to the grid, which can be used to offset the cost of electricity they use when their solar panels are not producing enough power.