Question 1

How do solar panels work?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts this DC electricity into alternating current (AC) that powers your home. Any excess electricity is sent to the grid through net metering, earning you credits on your utility bill.

Question 2

Will solar panels work on cloudy days?

Accepted Answer

Yes, solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days, though at reduced output (typically 10-25% of their rated capacity). Modern panels are designed to capture diffuse light. Over the course of a year, the sunny days more than compensate for the cloudy ones, especially in Colorado with 300+ days of sunshine.

Question 3

How long do solar panels last?

Accepted Answer

Modern solar panels are designed to last 25-30+ years. Most manufacturers guarantee at least 80-85% of original output after 25 years. The actual lifespan often exceeds 30 years. Inverters typically last 12-25 years depending on the type (string inverters on the lower end, microinverters on the higher end).

Question 4

Do solar panels work during a power outage?

Accepted Answer

Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during power outages for safety reasons (to protect utility workers). However, if you add a battery storage system like the Tesla Powerwall, your solar panels can continue powering your home during outages by charging and discharging the battery.

Question 5

What happens to excess energy my panels produce?

Accepted Answer

Through net metering, excess energy your panels produce is sent to the electrical grid, and you receive credits on your utility bill. These credits offset the electricity you use at night or on cloudy days. In Colorado, most utilities offer full retail-rate net metering credits.

Question 6

Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Most roofs are suitable for solar, but ideal conditions include south-facing orientation, a slope of 15-40 degrees, minimal shading, and good structural condition. Our team performs a detailed roof assessment including satellite imagery analysis and shade mapping to determine your roof's solar potential before recommending a system.

Question 7

How much does a residential solar system cost?

Accepted Answer

The average residential solar system in Colorado costs between $15,000 and $35,000 before incentives, depending on system size, equipment selected, and installation complexity. After the 30% federal tax credit and other incentives, the net cost typically falls between $10,000 and $24,000.

Question 8

What is the return on investment for solar?

Accepted Answer

Most residential solar systems in Colorado achieve a full return on investment in 6-9 years. After payback, the system provides free electricity for the remaining 16-19+ years of its warranty life. Total 25-year savings typically range from $30,000 to $75,000+ depending on system size and local electricity rates.

Question 9

Will solar increase my property taxes?

Accepted Answer

No. Colorado law exempts the added value of solar energy systems from property tax assessments. Your home value increases but your property taxes do not. This is one of the many Colorado-specific incentives that make solar an excellent investment in the state.

Question 10

What happens if electricity rates go up?

Accepted Answer

Rising electricity rates actually increase the value of your solar investment. Every rate increase means more savings for you compared to what you would have paid without solar. Historically, Colorado electricity rates have risen 3-5% annually, meaning your savings grow larger each year.

Question 11

Are there hidden costs with solar installation?

Accepted Answer

At ProGreen Solar, we provide a comprehensive quote that includes all costs: equipment, installation labor, permits, utility fees, and monitoring setup. There are no hidden fees. We also clearly explain any ongoing costs such as insurance adjustments or potential inverter replacement in 12-15 years for string inverter systems.

Question 12

How long does solar installation take?

Accepted Answer

The physical installation typically takes 1-3 days for residential systems. However, the complete process from contract signing to system activation usually takes 4-8 weeks, primarily due to permitting timelines and utility interconnection approval. ProGreen handles all paperwork and coordination.

Question 13

Do I need to be home during installation?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to be present for the entire installation, but we ask that you or a designated adult be available at the start for a brief walkthrough, and at the end for a completion review. Our crew needs access to your electrical panel and potentially your attic or garage.

Question 14

Will solar panels damage my roof?

Accepted Answer

When properly installed by certified professionals like ProGreen, solar panels actually protect the area of roof they cover from weather wear. We use industry-leading mounting systems with proper flashing and waterproofing, all backed by our 25-year workmanship warranty that covers roof penetrations.

Question 15

Do I need a new roof before installing solar?

Accepted Answer

If your roof has less than 10 years of expected life remaining, we recommend replacing it before or during solar installation. Through our partnership with GreenPoint Roofing, we offer seamless D&R (Detach and Reset) service that coordinates roofing and solar work for maximum efficiency and savings.

Question 16

What permits are needed for solar installation?

Accepted Answer

Solar installations require building permits, electrical permits, and utility interconnection agreements. The specific requirements vary by municipality. ProGreen handles all permitting and approval processes for you at no additional cost, including HOA approvals where applicable.

Question 17

Can solar panels be installed on a flat roof?

Accepted Answer

Yes, solar panels can be installed on flat roofs using ballasted or mechanically attached tilt-mount racking systems. These systems angle the panels for optimal sun exposure while maintaining proper drainage and wind resistance. Flat roof installations are common for commercial properties.

Question 18

What brands does ProGreen Solar install?

Accepted Answer

We install premium products from Enphase (microinverters and batteries), SolarEdge (inverters and optimizers), Meyer Burger (panels), QCell (panels), REC (panels), SMA (inverters), and Tesla (Powerwall batteries and Solar Roof). Each brand has been vetted for performance, reliability, and warranty coverage.

Question 19

What is the difference between microinverters and string inverters?

Accepted Answer

String inverters connect all panels in a series and convert DC to AC at one central point. Microinverters (like Enphase) are installed on each panel and convert power individually. Microinverters offer better performance in partial shade, panel-level monitoring, and easier system expansion, but cost slightly more.

Question 20

Do I need a battery with my solar system?

Accepted Answer

Batteries are optional but recommended if you want backup power during outages, want to maximize self-consumption of solar energy, or are on a time-of-use rate plan. Without a battery, your grid-tied system still provides excellent savings through net metering.

Question 21

What is a Tesla Solar Roof?

Accepted Answer

The Tesla Solar Roof replaces your existing roofing material with solar-generating glass tiles that look like a premium roof. It combines roofing and solar in one integrated product. It is ideal for homeowners who need a new roof and want solar, or who want the most aesthetically seamless solar option available.

Question 22

How efficient are modern solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Premium residential solar panels now achieve 20-22%+ efficiency. The brands we carry (Meyer Burger, QCell, REC) offer panels ranging from 21.4% to 22.3% efficiency. Higher efficiency means more power production per square foot of roof space, which is especially important for smaller roofs.

Question 23

Do solar panels require maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels require very little maintenance. Rain naturally cleans most dust and debris. We recommend a visual inspection once or twice per year and occasional cleaning if you notice significant buildup. Our monitoring system automatically detects performance issues so we can address them proactively.

Question 24

What if a panel gets damaged?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels are built to withstand severe weather, including hail up to 1 inch in diameter at 50 mph. In the rare event of damage, your homeowner's insurance typically covers replacement. ProGreen's 25-year workmanship warranty covers all installation-related issues, and manufacturer warranties cover equipment defects.

Question 25

How do I monitor my solar system?

Accepted Answer

Every ProGreen installation includes a monitoring system (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge mySolarEdge, or Tesla app depending on your equipment). You can track real-time and historical energy production, consumption, and savings from your smartphone or computer. Our team also monitors your system proactively.

Question 26

What happens if my inverter fails?

Accepted Answer

Microinverters (Enphase) carry a 25-year warranty, and if one fails, only one panel is affected while the rest continue producing. String inverters (SolarEdge, SMA) carry 12-25 year warranties. In either case, warranty replacement is handled at no cost to you. ProGreen's monitoring detects failures promptly.

Question 27

Will snow affect my solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Light snow usually melts quickly off solar panels due to their dark surface and slight warmth from electricity generation. Heavy snow may temporarily reduce production, but panels are designed to handle snow loads. Colorado's sunny winters mean snow typically clears within a day or two. We do not recommend manually removing snow.

Question 28

What financing options are available for solar?

Accepted Answer

ProGreen offers three main options: cash purchase (highest ROI), solar loans ($0 down, you own the system), and lease/PPA ($0 down, no maintenance). Each has different benefits depending on your financial situation and goals. Our advisors will help you choose the best option for your needs.

Question 29

What is the federal solar tax credit?

Accepted Answer

The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of the total cost of your solar system from your federal taxes. For a $25,000 system, that is a $7,500 tax credit. The 30% rate is available through 2032, then steps down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.

Question 30

Can I go solar with no money down?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solar loans and lease/PPA options allow you to go solar with $0 down. With a solar loan, your monthly payment is typically less than your current electric bill, so you start saving from day one while building equity in a system you own.

Question 31

What credit score do I need for solar financing?

Accepted Answer

Most solar loan providers require a minimum credit score of 650, though some programs accept scores as low as 600. Higher credit scores qualify for better interest rates. For leases and PPAs, requirements are typically similar. ProGreen works with multiple lenders to find the best options for your situation.

Question 32

How does net metering billing work?

Accepted Answer

With net metering, your utility tracks both the electricity you consume from the grid and the excess your solar system sends back. If you produce more than you use in a billing period, you receive credits that roll forward to offset future usage. In Colorado, credits typically roll over month to month.

Question 33

Can I sell my excess solar energy?

Accepted Answer

Through net metering, excess energy earns you credits at your utility's retail rate. In some utility territories in Colorado, you may also receive cash payments for excess production through programs like Xcel Energy's Solar*Rewards. Your ProGreen advisor will explain all available programs in your area.

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