The journey to solar energy is an exciting step towards contributing to a more sustainable future. This quick guide will walk you through the essential steps to transition to solar power so you can enjoy the technology of renewable energy and start making a positive impact on the environment.
Why should you switch to solar power?
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR POWER WITH SOLAR TECHNOLOGY With advancements in solar power technology, homeowners can now take full control of their energy production and consumption like never before. Solar power systems, equipped with cutting-edge technology, allow users to generate clean, renewable energy directly from the sun, reducing reliance on the grid and fossil fuels. By leveraging solar technology, you can take control of your energy, save on utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether through monitoring tools, smart inverters, or battery storage, solar power puts the control of energy production and consumption directly in your hands.
- REAL-TIME MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT Solar systems today come with smart monitoring tools that provide real-time data on energy production, consumption, and battery storage. With these tools, users can track how much energy their panels are generating, identify peak usage times, and adjust their energy consumption accordingly. Many systems allow remote access via apps, so you can control your solar power system from anywhere.
- ENERGY INDEPENDENCE Solar technology paired with battery storage allows users to store excess energy generated during the day for use during the night or in times of low sunlight. This reduces dependence on the utility grid and provides backup power during outages, giving users greater control over their energy supply and reducing vulnerability to fluctuating energy prices.
- SMART INVERTERS AND OPTIMIZATION Modern solar inverters convert direct current (DC) energy from solar panels into usable alternating current (AC) energy for your home. These inverters are designed with advanced algorithms to optimize energy efficiency, ensuring you get the most out of your system. Additionally, smart inverters can interact with the grid to stabilize power flows, further enhancing system performance and grid independence.
- POTENTIAL SAVINGS Switching to solar power offers significant potential for reducing your utility costs, especially for households with higher energy usage. For example, a typical home in Missouri or Illinois could see noticeable savings on their annual energy bills by going solar. Over a 25-year period—the typical production guarantee for solar systems—the savings can add up substantially.
- AUTOMATION AND CUSTOMIZATION Solar energy systems can now be integrated with home automation technology, allowing users to automate their energy usage. For example, smart thermostats and appliances can be programmed to run during peak solar production hours, maximizing the use of free solar energy. This technology helps users to optimize energy efficiency and take control of their overall energy strategy.
- SUSTAINABLE ENERGY FOR A GREENER FUTURE By adopting solar technology, users take control not only of their power but also their environmental impact. Solar power reduces the need for fossil fuels, leading to lower carbon emissions and a more sustainable lifestyle. Users who switch to solar contribute to a cleaner, greener planet while reducing their long-term energy costs.
- ADVANCED BATTERY SOLUTIONS With battery technology improving rapidly, solar power systems now come with sophisticated energy storage options. These batteries can store large amounts of energy, ensuring users have a reliable power supply even during grid outages or poor weather conditions. The ability to control when and how stored energy is used gives users flexibility and peace of mind.
HOME VALUE A solar power system can raise your home’s value. Buyers can immediately enjoy the benefits of solar energy technology once they move in. This may result in your house selling more quickly and for a better price.
PROTECTION FROM RISING UTILITY RATES Switching to solar power not only offers potential savings on your current utility bills but also provides protection from rising utility rates. As energy prices continue to increase, homeowners who rely solely on traditional power sources may see their bills climb year after year. However, with a solar system, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your dependence on the grid. This shields you from fluctuating and escalating energy costs, allowing you to lock in stable, predictable energy expenses for the long term. Solar energy offers a powerful hedge against inflation and rising utility rates, ensuring you maintain control over your power costs while enjoying the benefits of clean, renewable energy.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVANTAGE Adopting solar power provides a significant environmental advantage, making it a smart choice for property owners who are committed to sustainability. For property owners, adopting solar power represents a proactive step towards environmental stewardship. It not only lowers energy bills but also demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact, supporting renewable energy, and fostering a more sustainable future. Here’s how switching to solar power benefits the environment:
- REDUCTION IN CARBON FOOTPRINT Solar power systems generate electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gasses, such as carbon dioxide (CO2). By replacing fossil fuels with clean, renewable energy, property owners can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner and healthier atmosphere.
- DECREASE IN AIR POLLUTION Traditional energy sources, like coal and natural gas, release pollutants that can degrade air quality and harm public health. Solar power, on the other hand, produces no air pollutants, helping to improve air quality and reduce respiratory issues associated with pollution.
- CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES Solar energy harnesses the power of the sun, a virtually limitless resource, reducing the need for depleting finite resources such as coal, oil, and natural gas. This shift supports the conservation of these essential resources and promotes long-term environmental sustainability.
- SUPPORT FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY GROWTH By investing in solar power, property owners contribute to the growing demand for renewable energy technologies. This helps drive innovation and expansion in the solar industry, supporting the development of more sustainable energy solutions and accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels.
- REDUCTION IN WATER USAGE Traditional energy production methods, such as coal and nuclear power, require significant amounts of water for cooling and processing. Solar power systems use minimal water, helping to conserve this vital resource and reduce the strain on local water supplies.
- ENHANCE PROPERTY VALUE Solar installations are increasingly recognized as a desirable feature for properties. Homes with solar systems often experience an increase in property value due to their energy efficiency and environmental benefits. This makes solar power not only an investment in sustainability but also a smart financial decision.
- COMMUNITY AND ECOSYSTEM HEALTH By reducing reliance on polluting energy sources, solar power helps protect local ecosystems and wildlife from the negative impacts of pollution and habitat destruction. Cleaner energy contributes to healthier communities and preserves natural habitats for future generations.
How does the installation process work? Once you’ve expressed interest in installing a solar power system, the proposal and approval process is a crucial step in ensuring a successful installation
INITIAL CONSULTATION The process begins with a thorough consultation where we assess your energy requirements, discuss your goals, and gather information about your property. This helps us tailor the solar solution to fit your specific needs. Our team may ask to visit your property to conduct a detailed site assessment. This includes evaluating factors such as roof condition, orientation, shading, and available space. We also review your current energy usage to design an optimal system.
SYSTEM DESIGN Based on the site assessment, we design a solar power system that maximizes efficiency and meets your energy needs. This involves selecting the right type and number of solar panels, inverters, and other components. We prepare a comprehensive proposal that outlines the system design, estimated energy production, projected savings, and costs. This document also includes details about any available incentives or rebates. You receive a clear breakdown of costs, including installation, equipment, and any additional fees. This transparency ensures that you understand the financial aspects of the project. If you have any concerns or require adjustments, we work with you to revise the proposal as needed. This may involve modifying the system design, adjusting the scope, or updating cost estimates.
PROPOSAL APPROVED Once you are satisfied with the proposal, you provide your approval to move forward. This typically involves signing a contract or agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the solar installation.
CONTRACT SIGNED AND CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE ESTABLISHED As soon as we have a signed contract, we promptly establish a construction timeline that aligns with your schedule. This careful planning ensures your solar installation progresses smoothly, meets your availability, and gets completed as planned.
COUNTY / CITY PERMITS AND UTILITY INTERCONNECTION APPROVED Our engineering team develops detailed plans that outline the system’s final design that will adhere to your local jurisdiction’s building and electrical codes, and safety regulations. The engineering plans and other required documents are then submitted to the local authority having jurisdiction, and the utility provider for their review, and for them to give permit and approval to construct.
CONSTRUCTION IM Sustainable ensures that during the construction of your solar system, a clear timeline is provided, and the project stays on schedule without delays. We offer regular updates on progress and maintain a reliable point of contact to address any questions or concerns. Our team delivers high-quality workmanship, ensuring the installation is professionally executed and aesthetically integrated with your property. We also minimize disruptions to your daily life, keeping the site clean and following strict safety protocols throughout the process.
MONITORING SETUP Once construction is completed, we set your solar monitoring app on your phone or computer or both. The inverter, being the heart of the monitoring system, provides real-time data on power production, voltage, current, and system status. Either Wi-Fi, Ethernet, GSM/GPRS, or an RS485 device connects data from your inverter to the monitoring platform, and enables real-time data transmission to remote servers.
COUNTY / CITY INSPECTION Local jurisdictions often require inspections to ensure that the solar power system is installed according to local building and electrical codes, fire safety standards, and zoning requirements.
UTILITY INSPECTION Utility companies conduct their inspections to ensure the safe interconnection of the solar power system to the grid. Tests are performed to verify safe operation and compliance with interconnection agreements, and power production and consumption are monitored. Upon successful interconnection, we receive all final documents, including countersigned agreements, and approval to operate. After passing inspection by the authority having jurisdiction, and receiving permission to operate from your utility provider, your system is officially commissioned!
PROJECT CLOSEOUT AND DOCUMENT HANDOFF Once your project is completed, and upon receipt of final installation payments, we send you documents pertinent to your project such as receipts, warranties, and tax credit forms and instructions.
How does solar work? Solar panels are made up of numerous photovoltaic cells that work together. These cells use sunlight to generate electricity by freeing electrons from atoms within the cell. When these electrons are moved through connected wires, they create an electric current. The more cells a solar panel has, the more electricity it can produce. Since solar panels generate direct current (DC), an inverter is needed to convert this DC into alternating current (AC), which is what’s used to power homes and the electrical grid.
Solar panels generate electricity throughout the day. When your system produces more electricity than you need, the surplus is sent back to the grid. When your solar system isn’t producing enough power (like at night or on cloudy days), you draw electricity from the grid.
What is net metering? Net meters are bi-directional, meaning they can measure the flow of electricity in both directions. Your electric meter tracks both the electricity you use from the grid and the electricity you send back to it. At the end of the billing period, your utility company calculates your net consumption- this is the difference between the amount of electricity you took from the grid and the amount you sent back. Net metering is a mechanism that allows homeowners with solar power systems to bank kilowatt-hours into the grid, and pull them first for future use, and once a year or every billing period, receive credit for the net consumption.
Why should you add batteries? Adding batteries to a solar energy system improves your grid independence by providing backup capabilities, and by significantly enhancing your solar system’s efficiency, reliability, and flexibility.
ENERGY STORAGE FOR LATER USE Solar energy production is intermittent and dependent on sunlight, which means it’s only available during the day. Batteries store excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours so that it can be used when the sun isn’t shining, such as at night or during cloudy weather. This ensures continuous power supply.
BACKUP POWER DURING OUTAGES A solar-plus-battery system provides backup power during grid outages. This is particularly beneficial for areas prone to power outages due to natural disasters, unreliable grids, or maintenance interruptions. The battery can keep essential appliances and devices running even when the grid is down.
ENERGY INDEPENDENCE Solar systems with battery storage increase energy independence by reducing reliance on the utility grid. Homeowners can rely more on their own generated power rather than purchasing electricity from the grid, helping to reduce energy costs and shielding against price hikes.
MAXIMIZING SOLAR SELF-CONSUMPTION Without batteries, any excess solar energy generated is usually sent back to the grid, often at a lower rate than it costs to buy back power later. With batteries, users can store their excess power and use it when their solar panels aren’t producing enough, thus maximizing self-consumption and reducing reliance on grid power.
PEAK SHAVING AND DEMAND CHARGE REDUCTION For some solar sites, batteries can be used to reduce demand charges by discharging stored energy during peak demand periods. This process, known as peak shaving, can result in substantial cost savings for properties that face high demand charges from utilities.
ENHANCED ENERGY MANAGEMENT With batteries, solar site owners can have more control over when and how their energy is used. Advanced battery management systems allow users to optimize energy consumption, prioritize critical loads, and manage peak hours more efficiently.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS By storing excess solar energy, users can minimize the need for fossil fuel-powered grid electricity during peak times, contributing to a cleaner energy mix. This reduces the carbon footprint and aligns with sustainability goals.
OFF-GRID CAPABILITY For remote or off-grid locations where connecting to the utility grid is expensive or impractical, solar-plus-battery systems provide a complete energy solution, making these sites entirely self-sufficient and independent from the grid.
RESILIENCE IN REMOTE AREAS In rural or remote areas, especially those with unreliable power grids, batteries can improve the overall resilience of the power supply, ensuring a steady energy flow for essential operations like agriculture, medical services, or telecommunications.
TIME-OF-USE (TOU) OPTIMIZATION In areas where electricity rates vary throughout the day (e.g., time-of-use pricing), a battery system allows users to store solar energy when rates are low (e.g., midday) and use it during peak hours when rates are high (e.g., evening). This helps reduce energy bills significantly.
What should you consider before switching to solar power? Solar energy can help everyone. To make the most of switching to solar power, here are some helpful facts to be aware of in advance.
ROOF AGE If you have any doubts concerning the state of your roof, IM Sustainable can do a roof inspection. Your roof’s issues, if any, may also be resolved when installing solar panels.
IRRADIATION It’s critical to understand how much sunlight your roof receives as this will decide whether solar energy is appropriate for your house.
Why go solar with IM Sustainable?
EXPERTISE AND PROFESSIONALISM With years of experience in the solar industry, our team is highly skilled in designing and installing systems that maximize energy efficiency and long-term savings. We are committed to staying up to date with the latest technologies and industry standards, ensuring that each installation is performed with precision and care. Our knowledgeable professionals will guide you through the process, providing clear communication and delivering a seamless, high-quality solar solution tailored to your needs.
OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SUPPORT AND COMMUNICATION You will be kept informed at every step, from the initial consultation to post-installation follow-ups, ensuring you are always up to date. We make sure you feel fully supported during every phase of your project.
HIGH-QUALITY INSTALLATIONS Customers are impressed with the quality of installations, often mentioning the meticulous attention to detail and safety measures taken during the process. Our installation teams are friendly, hard-working, and adaptable, ensuring everything is done correctly—even under challenging conditions like extreme heat or complex site requirements.
LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE AND ENERGY SAVINGS Clients report significant reductions in their utility bills after installation, with some seeing their bills drop to as little as the base delivery charge. Many customers are pleased with the system’s long-term performance, even years after installation, underscoring the durability and efficiency of the systems provided.
POST- INSTALLATION SUPPORT IM Sustainable continues to provide excellent service long after the installation is complete. From upgrading inverters to fixing data connection issues, our team is readily available to ensure that systems are running smoothly.
SEAMLESS PROCESS WITH INCENTIVES AND REBATES IM Sustainable’s assistance in navigating the SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Credit) process and tax rebates ensures customers receive the full financial benefits of going solar. Many of our customers share their “next to nothing” monthly bills – thanks to these incentives, making solar a cost-effective investment.
PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE AND CUSTOMER-CENTERED APPROACH
IM Sustainable’s approach is heavily focused on customer satisfaction, hands-on service and attention to detail, offering customized installations. We take customer preferences seriously, and to the best of our ability, accommodate special requests – whether it’s the placement of panels, piping, or meters, we work with homeowners to find the best solutions that suit individual needs.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Many of our past customers have recommended IM Sustainable to their friends and family, reflecting the confidence you can have in our ability to deliver excellent service and results. Our team’s skill in addressing complex issues, performing high-quality installations, and fostering strong customer relationships demonstrates our solid reputation. If you’re looking for a company that offers expertise, reliability, and outstanding customer service, IM Sustainable is an excellent choice for your solar energy needs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DO SOLAR PANELS WORK IN COLD OR RAINY WEATHER? Yes. Solar panels create energy from sunlight and not from the heat of the sun. Solar panels produce electricity more efficiently in cooler conditions than in warmer conditions. Even in the most frigid weather, solar panels can turn sunlight into electricity.
WHAT IS THE LIFESPAN OF A SOLAR POWER SYSTEM? The typical lifespan of a solar power system is around 25 to 30 years. Solar panels are designed to be durable and have a long operational life. Most panels come with performance warranties of 25 years.
HOW MANY SOLAR PANELS DO I NEED? The size of your system will depend on your annual power consumption and your property’s sun exposure. IM Sustainable offers a free quote to help you determine the best size for your solar system.
WHAT MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED FOR MY SOLAR SYSTEM? Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections for dirt or damage are recommended. In 2024, advancements in technology continue to make solar panels more durable and low-maintenance.
