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QUESTIONS/ANSWERS


How Does a Solar Electric System Work?

Solar panels are installed on your roof or other mounting surface and produce electricity the moment sunlight hits the solar cells. This energy then flows to an inverter which converts this solar energy to usable household electricity. When the system produces more power than you consume, your electric meter will spin backwards and credit your utility account. If you produce more electricity than you consume within a months time, this electricity will be carried forward to the following month as a credit.

The ideal site for solar installation is a roof facing south or a flat roof that is free from surrounding obstructions (trees, etc.). However, ground mounting installation can offer solar to many homes that would be otherwise unsuitable solar locations.

What Are the Benefits of Purchasing a Solar Electric System?

  • Solar is a 100% clean and renewable energy source, allowing you to generate your own electricity using energy from the sun and reduce your overall carbon footprint.
  • Installing a system will increase your home or business property value.
  • Solar is a long term investment that is unaffected by variable interest rates and volatile investment markets.
  • The return on your initial investment is strong and will only increase as electric rates increase in the future.
  • Reducing your electric demand will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Your monthly electric bill will be greatly reduced or eliminated, depending on the size system you install.

Why Should I Consider a Solar Electric System?

  • With new state and federal rebates and tax credits covering up to 60% of a systemʼs cost, there has never been a better time to buy solar.
  • Solar reduces your electric bills and provides a hedge against inflation.
  • Solar is clean, quiet, and produces zero emissions.
  • System design provides small investors the option to increase system size incrementally.
  • A back-up system can be incorporated into the solar system to provide back-up power in the event of a power outage.
  • Systems are virtually maintenance free and are designed to last decades.

What Are Alternative Energy Credits (AECʼs) and How Do They Provide Income?

An AEC is created each time a solar system generates 1000kW of electricity. AEC prices are determined by the market (supply and demand). Utility companies are required to purchase a set amount of AECʼs in order to meet the stateʼs Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (AEPS). The AEPS states that an annually increasing percentage of electricity sold to customers is from alternative energy sources. As an increased number of utility providers are required to conform to these standards, the demand and value of these credits is expected to increase. AECʼs are a great way to assist in the payment of your solar system.

What Are the Financial Incentives for Installing a Solar Electric System At My Residence?

  • As electric rates continue to rise, the amount of money saved increases.
  • The federal government is now offering the Renewable Energy Tax Credit, which covers 30% of the total cost of a solar system (NO LIMIT!). This credit can be taken all in one tax year or spread out over several consecutive tax years.
  • The federal government is also offering the Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion, which makes any subsidy received by public utilities non-taxable.
  • Pennsylvania is now offering the PA Sunshine Grant Program, which provides a rebate of $1.25 per watt for up to a 10kW solar system. Check out DSIRE for more info on PA solar incentives

What Are the Financial Incentives for Installing a Solar Electric System At My Business?

  • The Federal Government’s Renewable Energy Tax Credit also applies to businesses and covers 30% of the total system cost (NO LIMIT!). Like with a residential system, this credit can be taken all in one tax year or spread out over several consecutive tax years.
  • From now until October 1, 2011, the federal government is allowing businesses to convert the above tax credit into a grant under the Renewable Energy Grant program
  • The PA Sunshine Grant Program is available to businesses having 100 employees or less and provides a rebate for systems up to 200kW as follows:
    • up to 10kW: $0.75 per watt
    • 10kW - 100kW: $0.50 per watt
    • 100kW - 200kW: $0.25 per watt
  • • PA also offers competitive grants, such as the PEDA and Energy Harvest Grants. Check out DSIRE for complete info on PA solar incentives

What Is the Next Step in Pursuing Solar Energy?

Please contact us at Advanced Solar Industries. With our vast knowledge and over 15 years of experience, providing simple information such as your average monthly electric usage and your street address allows us to determine how suitable your site is for solar electric. We offer on site analysis to further determine the size system that will best suit your alternative energy needs.

Why Should I Choose Advanced Solar Industries (ASI) For My Solar Energy Needs?

  • Advanced Solar Industries (ASI) is a family-owned business, owned and operated in the heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
  • We specialize in designing and installing solar electric systems: THIS IS ALL WE DO!
  • Our installation teams receive ongoing technical training and certifications.
  • We offer competitive pricing on the most innovative and efficient products on the market.
  • As an authorized SunPower dealer, we have access to the most efficient solar products available and an unparalleled product support team.
  • Our MAGE panels come with an industry-leading 30-year 80% power guarantee.
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Begining January 1, 2010, deregulation of electrical utilities in Pennsylvania will take effect with expected rate increases of 30% or higher depending on your utility provider.

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Customer Testimonials

"I can now monitor the real-time performance of my solar system online through a web browser, or via a wireless device which we keep in the house. The monitoring system is far more than a toy. It’s a great way to see how much electricity our solar panels produce and enables us to optimize our energy savings."

– Malcolm Davies, San Rafael, CA Homeowner

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