Sun N Us Solar Blog

Does My Utility Bill Have Hidden Charges?

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 17:50:32 GMT

Does My Utility Bill Have Hidden Charges?

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

What’s In a Solar Proposal? How to Compare Solar Energy Options for Your Home

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 15:45:00 GMT

What’s In a Solar Proposal? How to Compare Solar Energy Options for Your Home

If you’re making the move to solar power (good on you!), you may be wondering, what is the best way to compare proposals from different providers? Unfortunately, there is no one standard format for solar proposals, but there are some key points of information that you can look for to make an informed decision.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the mySunPower proposal tool and point out the relevant information along the way. But first, a few things to look for when comparing solar proposals:

System size and energy offset - Any solar proposal should clearly define the size of your system in kilowatts, and the estimated “offset” the system will provide. Offset is the percentage of your energy usage that will be covered by solar energy.
The amount you’ll pay and the amount you’ll save - How much you pay for your solar system will depend on your system size, location and the type of financing you choose. The amount you’ll save depends on your local utility rates and the average expected increase in their costs to you. (Every SunPower dealer knows how to estimate this, and this metric should be noted in your proposal.)
The terms of your agreement - How will you pay for solar power? The financing vehicle (cash vs. loan, lease or PPA), the length of the contract and the warranties the company provides should all be clearly evident in your proposal.
Production guarantee - Solar panels tend to degrade over time -- some more than others. For some companies, this number can go as low as 80%, which will dramatically affect your energy production, and hence, your financial returns. SunPower guarantees its systems will perform at or above 92% over the 25-year warranty of the system.

What will my SunPower proposal include?

Once you’ve provided your utility bills and your solar representative has generated a quote, you’ll get a message in your email with a link to a solar proposal. The landing page of the proposal will look something like this:

In this case, there are three financing options– loan, lease or cash. The size of the system is shown, along with whether it’s solar or solar + storage. Choose the option you want and you’ll be prompted through a detailed look at your system. You can always go back and choose other options to compare them.

mySunPower is actually a powerful education tool, so the first few pages are simple explanations of how solar works.

After you’ve run through those pages, you’ll see a screen outlining the benefits of each financial approach. Here’s an example of the financing benefits page:

Some of the benefits of financing your system with SunPower include owning the system outright vs. leasing it, and the ability to increase the value of your homewhen you sell it down the road.

How much can I save with solar energy?

You can always “skip to proposal” to see the nuts and bolts of the system, which in this case looks like this:

You can move the vertical line back and forth along the green savings continuum to find the place where you’ll break even on the investment, in this case at around year 15. (This is a highly variable number based on the financing option you choose, so it’s good to compare your options.)

Ready to sign? Here’s how that’s done.

Once you’ve reviewed your proposal and are ready to take the next step, the system will prompt you through a Docusign process that clearly summarizes the details. From there, it’s a simple process of creating your account within MySunPower - which keeps track of your system performance and savings- scheduling your installation and you’re done!

Want to see how the process works yourself? Take our SunPower Design Studio for a test drive and find out what your home looks like with solar.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How Can I See How Much Solar Energy My Home is Using?

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:00:04 GMT

How Can I See How Much Solar Energy My Home is Using?

With a home solar system, it’s easy to see the clean energy you produce day in and day out. The flick of a light switch or hum of the dryer are good indicators of your solar array’s success and just as easily, its progress can be viewed on a mobile app. But when you receive your utility bill, you may find yourself wondering how your solar power production compares to your electricity consumption.

To fully understand the power of your solar system, getting the entire picture of your home’s energy production and consumption is necessary. Monitoring your SunPower® solar system through the mySunPower® app can not only show you how much solar energy you generate but also how much electricity you are using. This knowledge can help you better plan out your utility costs. For example, if you find that the weather is curbing energy production for a day or two, you can consciously decide to scale back on electricity use for the day. However, there may be certain scenarios when you aren't able to easily view your energy consumption. Let’s explore those situations.

We'll start with the basics. In order to view your electricity consumption in real time, your electrical panel will need a current transformer or CT. But what exactly is a CT? CTs are small devices used in your home’s electrical system that measure electrical current. These devices are crucial for homeowners with a solar system that want the option of monitoring their home's power usage. If you have a SunVault® storage system, a CT is required for the system to work properly.

Not all homeowners with a solar system installed have CTs and there are some good reasons for that. The first reason is that other solar energy technologies may not have the power monitoring requirements that SunPower does. If you have older solar panels, it’s possible that the solar monitoring component was not yet a part of the product requirements.

The second reason is more common, especially for newer systems. Residential electrical panels vary depending on the age and location of your home. Some are more complex to work with than others. It’s worth noting that determining just how complex installing a CT will require an in-depth look from an electrician. Oftentimes, your solar installer won’t be able to identify how involved the job is until after the site survey is completed.

When a homeowner’s electrical panel involves a complex CT installation, the work could take several hours to even days. The associated costs, time to complete and skill level needed to properly configure your home could lead to an additional fee. Luckily, this extra work is often not needed.

In any case, a highly skilled, trained and experienced professional is necessary to properly install CTs. Even simple cases require a certain amount of knowledge. That’s why choosing the right solar installer is important. At SunPower, we provide our dealers and solar installers with specialized training for various types of consumption CT installations. Most of these training sessions are required. To ensure you receive the world-class service that you’ve come to expect from our brand, we have also created a system of checks and balances that verify proper installation after an installer completes the task.

In very rare cases, CT installation is not available for your home but not all hope is lost. You can view energy consumption details within your monthly utility bill. The great news is that most homeowners can monitor their home solar system with ease, down to each individual panel with the mySunPower app. Check out this video to learn about mySunPower’s various features.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Can You Add Solar Panels to an Existing System?

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:57:01 GMT

Can You Add Solar Panels to an Existing System?

Home energy needs change over time. While your solar system was likely sized to meet your energy usage when it was installed, many homeowners find that expanding their solar system can be a helpful way to further decrease their utility bills. Here are a few frequently asked questions about adding solar panels or storage to existing home solar systems to keep in mind as you consider expanding.

When should I add solar panels to my existing solar system?

If you’ve had any significant lifestyle changes in your home since you first installed solar panels, chances are you may want more solar energy to meet your current needs. For example, working from home, purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) or adding a pool or home addition may lead to increased energy demand.

Those who move into a newly built home with solar pre-installed may also find it necessary to add to their existing system. Instead of basing solar system size on the homeowner’s unique needs, new homes often include a solar system sized to meet minimum requirements set by solar mandates. Once you’ve settled into your home and get a better sense of your solar energy production and energy consumption, you might want to cover more of your electricity use.

Often homeowners can determine whether they need to expand their system around one year after installing solar power. This allows time to monitor solar panel performance and utility grid usage across various seasons. If you find that your energy use is exceeding your solar energy production, you may want to add on to your system to match your current demand.

How will I know how many more solar panels to add?

A SunPower energy consultant will review your historical solar monitoring information and electricity bills to determine your current energy usage. If you know you have changes coming soon – such as the purchase of an EV – SunPower will take these factors into consideration. From this, you’ll be able to determine how many additional solar panels are recommended. Keep in mind that like most providers, SunPower has a minimum size requirement for the solar system addition.

You may also be concerned about the available space left on your roof for additional solar panels or how the overall look of the system will change with expansion. SunPower’s team will create a custom design to integrate your new and existing solar panels considering available space and optimizing location to maximize production.

Will new panels or battery storage be compatible with my existing system?

When you start the process of expanding your system, your provider will review your existing setup. SunPower solar systems are designed to last decades, replacing an entire solar system in order to add additional solar panels is a rare occurrence. Depending on the age of your home solar system, you may need or want to upgrade some components to achieve your desired expansion.

Unlike conventional solar systems, each SunPower solar panel features microinverters, making them ideal for modular design. This means that additional solar panels can easily integrate into the existing solar system and solar monitoring process. However, if your solar system is older and incompatible with your desired expansions, you may choose to replace the system altogether or run a separate system alongside your solar panels.

Do I need to stick with my original solar installer for an expansion?

When looking for a solar installer to assist with your expansion, there are benefits to sticking with the same provider that completed your original installation. Keeping up with multiple companies for customer service requests and warranties can prove tiresome. Homeowners also may value the aesthetics achieved by working with a single company that may be able to maintain a similar overall appearance when adding on new solar panels.

If your initial installation experience did not live up to expectations, or if the company you previously worked with went out of business, you are not out of luck. SunPower will work with you to ensure your unique needs are met with your solar system addition and give you confidence in your expansion experience.

I’m a solar customer in California and I currently enjoy the benefits of NEM 1.0 or NEM 2.0. Can I add onto my system without changing to NEM 3.0?

Homeowners in California can expand their solar system by 10% and still be eligible to keep the benefits of NEM 1.0 or NEM 2.0 without any changes. Existing customers are grandfathered into these programs, allowing you to continue to enjoy the full 20 years of NEM 1.0 or NEM 2.0 benefits from your solar installation. It’s important to note that your grandfathering start date for this 20 year period is the Permission to Operate date from your original solar installation, not the date of your solar system expansion.

Most homeowners don’t know what their energy needs will be in 10 years. Having the option to add additional solar panels or battery storage to your system down the road can give you the peace of mind that you’ve invested in a home solar system that benefits you now and in the future.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Strengthening Communities Against Power Outages with Clean Energy and Smart Home Technology

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 16:52:10 GMT

Strengthening Communities Against Power Outages with Clean Energy and Smart Home Technology

With energy demands growing every day and severe weather events increasingly putting electrical grids under stress, homeowners are seeking more reliable and resilient solutions to power their homes.

In 10 pilot projects across the country, including new construction homes, workplaces and a university, the Department of Energy (DOE) is working with private sector companies, public utilities and learning institutions to create energy smart “Connected Communities.” Made up of grid-interactive energy efficient homes and buildings that use smart controls, sensors and analytics to communicate with the power grid. As a result, it reduces the energy required during periods of peak demand.

Keeping the Power On – Even When the Electrical Grid Goes Out

While some commercial buildings and industrial sites have been using microgrids for years, they are a new energy resource in residential communities. Residential microgrids enable a group of homes to generate, store and share their own electricity, especially during emergency situations when the utility grid goes down. Because each microgrid community has interconnected power, all the houses share electricity, and all benefit from the same backup and enhanced power grid resilience.

Creating Neighborhoods That Use Power Wisely – and Communally

SunPower is leading the efforts in one of these connected communities projects, overseeing project partners, providing clean energy services and technology and ensuring that home energy systems interact with the electric grid more reliably and efficiently.

KB Homes’ Oak Shade and Durango at Shadow Mountain, will be the first residential new construction neighborhoods in California to be designed and built from the ground up with smart home technologies. This includes solar panels, a backup solar battery in every home and a local electrical grid connected to a self-supporting energy system with a 2.3-megawatt community battery.

SunPower and KB Home have a long-standing history of working together to bring innovative technology and sustainability to new homes. Oak Shade and Durango at Shadow Mountain provided both companies with an opportunity to demonstrate how new build homes can sustainably and affordably produce and store renewable energy. When connected to a community battery, entire neighborhoods can reduce their impact and reliance on the public utility grid while lowering their overall energy costs.

Each of the houses in the new developments will be equipped with a SunPower Equinox® solar system and a 13kWh SunVault® Storage battery. SunPower's solar battery storage system stores extra energy generated by the home's solar panels for future use. During outages, SunVault can provide seamless backup power by tapping into the reserve energy. SunVault also features a clean, minimal design and comes with an industry-leading 10-year warranty.

In addition, SunPower will provide electric vehicle (EV) charging options that will be pre-wired into every garage. Some will have bidirectional charging, which enables an EV to be an additional source of energy for the home during a blackout. All of the new homes are designed and built to meet the DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home criteria, which can help homeowners reduce average energy use by up to 40%. This level of optimum energy efficiency reduces the power demands of the entire community on the electrical grid while reducing energy costs and emissions.

SunPower is proud to be at the forefront of creating new, power-outage resistant communities that will offer a blueprint for creating a new generation of sustainable, energy-resilient residential developments across the country.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

The Top 5 Reasons Californians Should Go Solar Now

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:48:01 GMT

The Top 5 Reasons Californians Should Go Solar Now

This year, the passage of Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) opened new doors for clean energy by making solar power more accessible for Americans interested in reducing their carbon footprint and their utility bills. The new law also secured thousands of renewable energy jobs over the next 10 years with an extension of the federal solar Investment Tax Credit. But many would say that recent changes to California’s net energy metering (NEM) program, often called NEM 3.0, are a step backward from U.S. climate goals and the state’s race towards 100% clean energy.

While NEM 3.0 is certainly a change in how solar owners are compensated for their contributions to the grid, aligning with the right solar provider can help them unlock significant savings on their electric bills.

PG&E, SCE and SDG&E utility customers that go solar after April 13, 2023, will only be eligible for NEM 3.0, as opposed to California’s current NEM program, NEM 2.0. As such, understanding what to expect from NEM 3.0, the program that will start in just a few short months, is crucial, especially for homeowners currently shopping for solar energy. Here are five reasons why you shouldn’t wait to make a clean energy transition.

There’s Still Time to Take Advantage of NEM 2.0

If you live in the Golden State, there are still a few months left to apply for the current NEM 2.0 program. This can be highly beneficial because NEM 2.0 customers will not be affected by revisions to NEM 3.0 for 20 years from the date of their Permission to Operate status. NEM 2.0 customers can receive higher reimbursement rates for any extra clean energy supplied to the power grid when compared to the upcoming NEM 3.0 program.1 Also, keep in mind that solar owners that are locked into NEM 2.0 can modify their system by up to 10% without triggering a requirement to switch to NEM 3.0.

To qualify as a NEM 2.0 customer, a completed Interconnection Application package will need to be submitted to your utility by your solar provider prior to 5pm PST April 13, 2023. Keep in mind that this application does take some time to complete. Get solar energy now to avoid missing out on NEM 2.0 savings.1

Solar Battery Storage Makes Sense under Both NEM 2.0 and NEM 3.0

Since its introduction on the market a few years ago, solar battery storage has become a hot commodity. It has also become increasingly affordable through new incentives provided by the federal Inflation Reduction Act. The NEM 3.0 program is more favorable to customers who go solar combined with battery storage, to support personal resiliency when the grid goes down, and electrical grid resiliency, which can help prevent grid outages in the first place.

Homeowners with solar + storage can receive compensation for any stored energy that is discharged from their solar battery when demand for electricity is at its highest – typically during the evening when solar power isn’t readily available. And solar customers that are locked into NEM 2.0 can add battery storage and still take advantage of NEM 2.0.

The Inflation Reduction Act Provides Tax Incentives for Going Solar

As mentioned above, the Inflation Reduction Act is a great resource for solar energy savings. Through it, qualified residential consumers can now take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit at a higher percentage of the system cost than was previously available – the tax credit is now valued at 30% of the system cost.2 The federal investment tax credit will also be available for battery storage systems for the first time this year, along with an additional federal tax credit for EV charging solutions.2 A great place to learn more about the range of new clean energy federal incentives available to American consumers is through Rewiring America.

Beyond the Inflation Reduction Act, many homeowners may find that there are state and local rebates available to cut down solar and/or battery storage installation costs even more.3 Talk with your SunPower installer about what might be available to you in your area or get a sense from the DSIRE database.

Plan Ahead for Power Outages

Researchers from Climate Central found that power outages increased by 63% over the past decade. Of those outages, 83% were caused by weather-related events like storms and wildfires. Solar energy is becoming a vital resource for the aging power grid. As more homeowners use their solar systems to generate clean energy, they rely less on the grid for their daytime electrical use. But when extreme weather events occur, a solar battery can help keep the lights on.

Most solar systems work with the electrical grid to provide a home with power. When a power outage occurs, your solar system will pause production. That’s when a solar battery storage system saves the day. The solar battery can be programmed to discharge and power up your home with stored energy from your solar panels. Having this advantage to power essential appliances like your fridge or keep your phone charged can save you from a serious headache. In some cases, a more powerful version of the SunPower® SunVault® storage system can power your whole home, even enabling your EV charger to keep your vehicle in working order.4

Climate Change is an Active Issue

It can be disheartening to think about the state of our planet when it comes to addressing climate change, but the good news is we can do something about it. Taking an active part in reducing harmful climate change pollution by installing a solar system is a great way to make a real difference.

SunPower customers have installed solar systems that have generated enough clean energy to be the equivalent of reducing approximately 94 million metric tons of carbon since 2005. That’s to the same as carbon sequestered by 115 million acres of U.S. forests in one year.5 When you go solar with SunPower, you’re making a commitment to fostering a better, cleaner planet.

California has been a leader in stimulating a clean energy economy for many years, setting initiatives that have led to state accomplishments like boasting over a million solar rooftops. Even with the changes in the new NEM 3.0 program, there are many opportunities for Californians to save money on their electricity bills, especially considering the benefits in the Inflation Reduction Act and even certain local rebates.

In other words, if you’ve been on the fence about solar power, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of the many benefits available to you. Kick things off by signing up for a custom solar quote.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What is Happening with California’s Net Energy Metering policy

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 14:30:01 GMT

What is Happening with California’s Net Energy Metering policy (NEM 3.0) and How Will It Affect Home Solar Systems?

There’s been a lot in the news lately about California’s plans to update its solar net metering policy, otherwise known as NEM 3.0. But the information has been fluid and at times confusing for homeowners who already have solar panels, as well as those considering installing solar energy in the future.

To provide clarification, in this post we’ll present a quick overview of Net Energy Metering (NEM), how it started and where we think things are headed. We will also try to answer some of the most pressing questions homeowners have about the future of NEM in California.

What is Net Energy Metering (NEM) and why does this matter?

California’s initial NEM program was established in 1996 to incentivize utility customers who generated their own clean energy by offering financial credit on their electric bills for any surplus energy fed back to their utility.

NEM served as a very attractive incentive to many homeowners who were interested in getting solar energy but were uncertain about the cost advantages. Knowing they could “sell” any surplus energy back helped many consumers realize the financial benefits that justified installing solar systems on their homes. This was in addition to helping their community by adding renewable electricity to the utility power grid that everyone relies upon.

NEM 1.0 (as it became known) proved so successful in persuading homeowners to adopt solar power that by 2016, the designated 5% cap on how much residentially produced power could be sold back to utility companies neared its limit. This led the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) to initiate a successor program called NEM 2.0, which was enacted on July 1, 2017.

The most notable change implemented with NEM 2.0 required all solar energy customers to switch to Time of Use (TOU) rates, which altered the price the utility company had to pay for surplus electricity based on time of day. While higher rates could be charged during times of peak demand, such as in the late afternoons, renewable energy generated during off-peak times was reimbursed at lower rates. Under NEM 2.0, you can get back almost as much as the retail rate but there’s a small amount deducted to help pay for the power grid.

What impact will NEM 3.0 have on NEM 1.0 and NEM 2.0 customers?

If you installed a solar system under NEM 1.0 or NEM 2.0, there will be no changes to your service agreements. All the benefits of NEM 1.0 and NEM 2.0 have been grandfathered in for existing customers, protecting your investment from any revisions in NEM 3.0 for the full 20 years you expected from the date of when you received Permission to Operate from your utility after your solar installation. Furthermore, if you’re thinking of adding additional solar panels in California, you can revise your solar system by up to 10% without any changes. You can also easily add battery storage, meaning there will be no changes to your current plan through your utility company.

Can homeowners still apply for NEM 2.0?

A completed Interconnection Application package will need to be submitted to your utility prior to 5pm PST April 13, 2023, in order to fall under NEM 2.0 rates and regulations. Keep in mind that it takes some time to prepare an application properly, so you will want to connect with your solar energy provider as early as possible before the deadline. However, do know that the best solar company will know what requirements are needed for you to be eligible for NEM 2.0. You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they will submit the necessary documentation on your behalf.

How will NEM 3.0 be different?

NEM 3.0, which was finalized on December 15, 2022, will include several changes from previous net metering plans, but there are no fixed charges or other fees specifically charged to NEM customers. In other words, NEM 3.0 DOES NOT include a punitive “solar tax.” However, there will be changes that impact the amount that homeowners with solar will be able to recuperate when selling excess energy back to the utility grid.

With NEM 3.0, the value of the credits for net exports will be tied to the state's Avoided Cost Calculator (ACC).

The ACC is a set of formulas that attempts to estimate the value of solar generation for the entire electrical grid, as well as other distributed energy resources, by modeling the utility’s avoided cost for not having to generate or procure a megawatt-hour of energy

The anticipated result will be an average net export rate of approximately 7.5 cents/kWh across all three utilities statewide by 2023 for any solar electricity that you do not consume in your home and that is “exported” back onto the grid. In the first five years of NEM 3.0, there will be a gradual reduction for implementing the revised rate structure that includes a small added value in the form of an export credit adder for PG&E and SCE (there is no adder for SDG&E). This adder will be on top of the ACC value so that customers who participate in the NEM 3.0 program sooner, rather than later, will experience higher export rates and savings. The adder value reduces by 20% per year, until the end of the five-year period.

All NEM 3.0 residential customers who go solar in the first five years of the new program will have higher export credits locked in for nine years (commercial customers don’t get an adder, but they get their export compensation locked in for 9 years). The value of the locked in export rate credits that the NEM 3.0 customer receives for the first five years of the NEM 3.0 program will be based on the year in which they start participating in the NEM 3.0 program. For example, for those who start participating in the second year of the program, the export rate credit adder will be 20% less than the export rate credit adder for those who started participating in the first year of the program. After the first five years of the program, there will be no export compensation locked in for 9 years; instead, the export rate will be variable, with the CPUC determining the ACC-based export value each year.

The other significant change with NEM 3.0 will be applied to the netting period -- the time period over which the utilities measure the clean energy being imported or exported. In general, longer netting periods have been better for solar power customers because any consumption can be offset with production. NEM 3.0 will instead measure energy using instantaneous netting, which means interval netting approximately every 15 minutes. This will lead to more NEM customers’ electricity registering as exports, now valued at the new, lower ACC value. This means that customers who pair their solar with electric appliances, whole-home energy management and/or battery storage – to capture more of the solar benefit by matching it to electricity consumption patterns or storing it in a battery system - can save more under this new program

In addition, NEM 3.0 offers different provisions and considerations for low-income homeowners and multifamily dwellings. Specifically, low-income homeowners who are on CARE/FERA rates, homeowners in single family homes that live in disadvantaged communities, and residential customers in California Indian Country are eligible for higher export rate credits.

What’s the key to getting the most out of solar under NEM 3.0? Solar + storage.

In short, the timing of your clean energy exports is the biggest determining factor in how they will be valued. The most valuable export rates and retail rates will be in the evening. This makes owning a solar battery very beneficial. During the night, your solar battery can kick on and power your home to avoid high retail rates, while sending any leftover energy back to the grid for maximum profit.

Installing a solar system is still a smart financial move for most homeowners. It’s a proven solution for minimizing electricity costs – and keeping them stable. And when integrated with a battery storage system, it becomes an energy resource you can count on, even when the electrical grid goes down. On top of that, the possibility of new funding for the Self Generation Incentive Program (SGIP), which provides battery storage rebates for SCE, PG&E, SDG&E and SoCalGas customers, could further incentivize homeowners to pair battery storage with their solar system.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Why Should Homebuyers Consider Solar Panels When Building a New Home?

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 14:14:22 GMT

Why Should Homebuyers Consider Solar Panels When Building a New Home?

As a homebuyer during the new home construction process, you have a lot of decisions to make. You may consider upgrades as you move into your new place, including solar energy. Solar panels provide several advantages, many of which cater directly to homebuyers that have purchased a new construction home.

Solar Power is Simple

When it comes to buying a new build home, the best time to install solar power is during the construction phase. The reason is simple: installing a home solar system during the building process of your new home is easier and more cost-effective than having it retrofitted down the line. When you incorporate solar panels at this stage, you can account for them in your building design considerations, streamlining the construction process.

Solar Energy Reduces Electricity Bills

As a new homeowner, you already have so many expenses to consider. Reducing what you pay for electricity is one way to ease the financial pressure. By going solar, you may insulate yourself from future utility rate increases. In fact, the electricity cost savings generated by your solar system can begin the moment it is activated. When your main source of energy comes from your solar system, you can significantly reduce your reliance on the power grid and subsequently, the cost of your utility bills.

Solar Power is Affordable

If you can afford to pay your electricity bill every month, you can afford solar energy. There are solar financing options that can enable you to transition to renewable energy with little to no upfront costs.

The first way that new homebuyers can finance their solar system is through a solar lease. As a first time homebuyer you may be cash strapped. A solar lease can help you avoid the up-front costs by leasing equipment in exchange for a reduction in your energy bills. With a lease, financially conscientious homeowners can get access to clean energy at an affordable monthly cost that works with their budget.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to finance a new home solar system with a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The key difference between a solar lease and a PPA is in the terms of the monthly agreement. Instead of making a monthly lease payment, PPA holders agree to purchase monthly power from the equipment owner at a preset rate. Like a solar lease, a PPA involves the installation of solar equipment that is owned by a third party and doesn’t require an up-front payment.

Solar Energy Pays You Back

When you finance your solar system using a loan or combining costs into your home‘s mortgage, you can take full advantage of any incentives available. The Inflation Reduction Act provides a federal solar tax credit that enables qualified homeowners to receive an income tax credit worth 30% of the cost of their solar system.1 This incentive will be available until 2032, which will help make the cost of solar energy more affordable. Also, some states offer tax credits, rebates and other local incentives, making solar power even more cost effective.

Your exact return on investment can be affected by which solar financing option you choose, cash purchase, loan or lease/PPA options all have financial benefits and variable timeframes for you to realize your solar energy savings. But given that you may be able to reduce your utility bill and potentially take advantage of the solar tax credit and/or local solar incentives,1 the return is likely to be in the tens of thousands over the life of your solar system.

Clean Energy is Good for the Environment

Many new home buyers look for environmentally friendly home elements in a new build that make the home more sustainable, helping homeowners live greener and save money.

Climate change is a pressing concern for many and solar power can help protect the planet. When homeowners choose solar energy, they are reducing their carbon footprint by helping eliminate the amount of harmful greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. SunPower customers can even see a quantifiable version of their environmental impact with the mySunPower app.

You may even consider pairing solar power with other clean energy solutions. For example, if you own an electric vehicle, you could charge the EV with solar power, relying completely on renewable resources.

Buying a new home is an exciting time and factoring in solar power can benefit you in the process. Solar power can be installed with little upfront cost leading to savings and environmental improvements.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Accelerating Solar Small Businesses with the SunPower Dealer Network

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 15:45:00 GMT

Accelerating Solar Small Businesses with the SunPower Dealer Network

Small businesses were greatly impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many forced to close temporarily or permanently due to the pandemic. Those companies that were able to weather the storm of economic uncertainty need our support now more than ever to continue to regain stability. Despite the setbacks of the pandemic, the solar industry continues to grow at a rapid pace. The second quarter of 2022 accounted for approximately 180,000 home solar installations – the largest quarter yet for residential solar.

With more than 850 dealers collectively employing approximately 15,000 employees in local solar companies across the country, SunPower truly is powered by small businesses. This network supports SunPower’s residential customer base of 427,000 plus homeowners and helped SunPower install over 3.61 total gigawatts across the United States through solar installations. SunPower solar projects have generated an estimated 133 Terawatt-hours (TWh) since 2005 – the equivalent of avoiding 94 million metric tons of carbon emissions1 – and this could not have been accomplished without the hard work of our dealer network.

Becoming a SunPower dealer requires meeting high standards for design, quality and service, achieving consistent customer satisfaction scores, and completing specialized training. We want to make sure our dealers continue to have the support and resources they need to maintain this high-quality level after they join our dealer network, so we’re always looking for new ways to support these local businesses.

In early 2022, we launched the Dealer Accelerator Program (DAP), an initiative in which SunPower invests in select local solar dealers to help advance growth in the solar industry. SunPower provides financial investment, business strategy support and additional lead generation assistance to dealers in this program, backing these small businesses as they work to scale solar in high-growth areas. Through this initiative, SunPower is taking the next step to build upon momentum in the industry and set up our dealers for success as they grow their businesses.

In addition to innovative programs like the DAP, all SunPower dealers have access to a variety of resources to help them provide a top-tier customer experience to all homeowners. Ongoing training through online courses and sharing of best practices in person at our annual Dealer Conference help dealers stay up to date with the latest technical tips and happenings with SunPower and the solar industry. Our innovative digital solutions also help streamline the buying process for dealers and homeowners, with customized designs and savings estimates for homeowners easily available right from a laptop, tablet or phone.

Our goal at SunPower is to help more homeowners enjoy sustainable and cost-effective energy than ever before and we know we cannot achieve this without the ongoing support of our network of dealers. Their regional expertise and knowledge of local codes and utility requirements allow dealers to best serve their local communities, and we want to provide the resources to best serve our dealers during every step of this process. Providing support to these small businesses helps our dealers do what they do best – bring the benefits of solar energy to more communities across the country.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Tips on Helping Friends and Family Go Solar

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 16:54:55 GMT

Tips on Helping Friends and Family Go Solar

When you go solar with SunPower, it’s natural to want to brag about it. After all, you have the world’s best solar sitting on top of your roof. Add in the benefit of lower utility bills, a reduced carbon footprint and energy resilience, and you’ll find that it’s hard not to share the advantages of solar energy with everyone in the neighborhood. But did you know you can be compensated for your referrals?

Share SunPower is a referral program that rewards homeowners for helping others go solar. The process is simple:

Refer a homeowner you know that is interested in solar power.
Wait until they schedule an in-home or virtual consultation with SunPower.
Reap the rewards.

Beyond catching a neighbor’s eye with your sleek solar installation, what’s the best way to start conversations with friends and family about solar energy? Here are a few tips that may make referring others a little easier.

Share the Benefits of Your Solar System

Word of mouth is powerful, especially when you have experienced the benefits of your solar system firsthand. Whether you’re pulling out your phone to highlight your recent savings in the mySunPower® app or proudly showing off your solar array, using your personal experience to encourage others to choose solar energy is one of the best advantages you have.

It’s no surprise that becoming part of SunPower’s world savers has a positive impact on the planet and your community. Solar energy helps reduce carbon emissions which promotes cleaner air. Whenever the subject of climate change comes up with a neighbor, co-worker or family member, you already have the upper hand. In fact, you can easily discuss how you are playing a role in the 94 Million Metric tons of carbon that SunPower has offset since 2005. Giving a friend or family member a quick tour of the mySunPower app is the perfect way to illustrate this. Just tap on the analyze tab and scroll to the environmental savings section.

But environmental benefits aren’t all solar power has to offer. Homeowners that adopt solar energy are also helping stabilize the electrical grid by generating power on their roofs. Relying less on the grid in times of high demand like extreme weather events can reduce the threat of blackouts or power outages.

Look for Change of Life Events

There are plenty of instances that can require a home to consume more electricity. From adding a pool to growing your family, rising utility rates can compound when these types of changes take place. Even buying an electric vehicle can have a significant impact on your home’s utility bill, increasing consumption by as much as 30%. When a homeowner generates solar energy, these changes become much more manageable economically. Add in the fact that SunPower customizes a homeowner’s solar system based on their current and even future energy use, and your referrals can be set for years to come.

Point Out the SunPower Advantage

If you’ve managed to get your referral to start thinking about solar energy, great job! The next step is to show them why SunPower is the best choice for their installation. This should be a fairly easy task, given we’re the longest standing solar company in the nation. That reputation comes with years of experience and a trustworthy Complete Confidence Warranty that covers your SunPower Equinox® solar system and all of its components.

SunPower® solar panels are responsibly sourced and rigorously quality tested to provide the best energy solution for your home. And you can easily check up on their progress with panel level monitoring through the mySunPower app. SunPower also offers a variety of world-class clean energy solutions for the whole home, including the SunVault® Storage System and Wallbox EV charger, giving homeowners the ability to expand their energy independence as they see fit.

Get started sharing SunPower with everyone you know by signing up for our referral program and earn a $100 reward for every qualified homeowner that has an in-home or virtual consultation. And be on the lookout for special double referral weekends that enable you to earn $200 during certain times of the year.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Are There Different Types of Solar Cells?

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 16:34:40 GMT

Are There Different Types of Solar Cells?

It may seem obvious to say, but not all solar cells are the same. From the type of silicon used to the design of the solar cell, there are many aspects that determine the efficiency and durability of solar panels. It can be a bit overwhelming to understand what’s out there and what’s right for your home, so we’ll try to break it down for you.

Here at SunPower, we offer two main cell technologies within our SunPower Equinox®solar system – back-contact solar cells and front-contact solar cells. What makes these technologies different?

Most solar cells, including front-contact PERC solar panels, have metal ribbons on the front of the panel used to carry electricity through the cells. Front-contact solar cells, also known as Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell, or PERC for short, are an advancement of conventional solar cells. One of the main ways solar cells lose efficiency is when sunlight is insufficiently absorbed by the cell and therefore cannot be converted to solar energy. Front-contact PERC technology gives sunlight a second chance to be captured through an additional layer on the back of the solar cell that also reflects sunlight into the cell. This additional sunlight can then be absorbed and therefore generates more solar power than a conventional solar cell.

As the name implies, back-contact solar cells, also known as Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC), move these contacts to the back of the solar cell. This allows the entire front of the solar cell to be exposed to the sun without any shading from metal ribbons. Back-contact solar cells can therefore use more of the light spectrum to create more energy, typically resulting in higher performance.

While these two solar cell technologies both offer greater efficiency than conventional, non-PERC solar panels, it’s important to keep in mind that there are many components that make up a full solar system, including the inverter and mounting system. All these components vary by manufacturer and solar installer. If your front-contact or back-contact solar panel, as well as all the other components of the system, were not tested for long-term durability and reliability by your solar provider, you may only enjoy the benefits of your high-efficiency system for a short time.

SunPower Equinox – with front-contact or back-contact solar cell technology – is the only complete home solar solution designed and warranted by one company. Our products are rigorously tested, and certified to meet comprehensive quality standards, with ongoing onsite manufacturing and shipment inspections of all our suppliers. If you should run into a problem, our Complete Confidence Warranty covers your entire system. This includes both product coverage on materials and workmanship and power coverage guaranteeing the power output of your panels for 25 years. With SunPower, you can feel confident in the long-term durability of your high-efficiency solar panels.

Schedule your online appointment today and learn how much you can expect to save when going solar.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Three Things You Should Know When Shopping for a Solar Battery

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 17:10:09 GMT

Three Things You Should Know When Shopping for a Solar Battery

From wildfires to hurricanes, the last couple of years has been unpredictable for many Americans. Tired of being caught off-guard, homeowner interest is on the rise for alternative energy sources like solar batteries. The timing couldn’t be better as the technology becomes more available, affordable and even customizable in some ways. SunPower’s award-winning SunVault® Storage System is no exception.

The SunVault Storage system integrates seamlessly with the SunPower Equinox® System. Solar + storage enables homeowners to generate their own electricity and use it when they need it – tapping into stored power at night to reduce dependence on the electrical grid or saving it for when a power outage occurs.

SunPower recently announced new system sizes for the SunVault storage system. Homeowners will be able to choose from a 13 kWh, 19.5 kWh, 26 kWh, or 39 kWh to best suit their energy and financial needs. With the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, obtaining a home solar storage system of any size is now much more attainable through a 30% tax credit.*

But it’s important to note that not all solar batteries are created equally and to really get the most value out of your investment, quality paired with flexibility are key. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a solar battery:

How to manage your stored battery power

SunPower’s SunVault Storage system comes with two main components, the solar battery and the Hub+™. Both are easy to control through the convenient mySunPower®app. Hub+ houses intelligent software that puts power right in the palm of your hand. Whether you want to store excess solar energy for a power outage, program it to kick in during peak demand times or help you combat time-of-use rates, SunVault can do it all.* It can automatically detect utility disruptions, so you can switch to backup battery power without any extra effort.

How a solar battery is made

Are solar batteries safe? Some materials are safer than others. When considering a solar battery provider, it’s important to investigate the type of battery being used. Made up of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry, SunVault has one of the safest battery technologies on the market. Compared to conventional batteries, Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries consist of materials that are not only more environmentally friendly, they are also more stable-- making them better for residential use.

SunVault is assembled in the U.S. and features premium, imported parts. It is also the only home solar + storage solution designed and warranted by one company.

3. How powerful a solar battery is

SunPower’s SunVault Storage System has the ability to power your whole home during a power outage. Depending on your system size, you can choose to use your stored clean energy to power essential appliances like your refrigerator or even use it for non-essential items like charging your electric vehicle. You can even run multiple appliances at the same time.* That’s because SunVault’s powerful solar battery has more charge cycles than conventional systems.

Bonus: does your solar battery come with a warranty you can trust?

SunPower provides a 10-year warranty for SunVault as part of the Complete Confidence Warranty which covers SunPower® solar systems.

If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to get a solar battery this year, consider this. A recent analysis conducted by the California Solar + Storage Association showcased just how powerful distributed solar + storage was during a recent California heatwave. On September 6, residents expected a round of rolling blackouts but to everyone’s delight, they never came. You’re probably thinking, what is the difference between September 2022 and the past couple of years?

The answer lies in the state’s solar battery capacity. In just two years, California homeowners have rapidly increased the adoption of solar storage from 30,000 connected batteries in 2020 to over 80,000 solar batteries today with the capability of providing 900 MW of solar power. In other words, with the mass adoption of better, cleaner energy solutions the distribution of solar batteries can stop a power outage in its tracks.

So whether you want peace of mind for your family or have a more philanthropic approach to strengthening the electrical grid in your community, getting a solar storage system can offer you plenty of benefits—especially if you choose the right provider.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Jorge and Claudia’s Story: How the Inflation Reduction Act Makes Embracing Solar Energy an Easy Choice

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:57:03 GMT

Jorge and Claudia’s Story: How the Inflation Reduction Act Makes Embracing Solar Energy an Easy Choice

In this ongoing series, we’re exploring how the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act will empower families in communities across the United States to save money while reducing their carbon footprint by choosing clean energy. In this week’s scenario, we’ll see how a young family in Florida is making solar energy work for their budget and needs.

In Miami, the relentless heat of summer 2022 set some all-time records. Like many young homeowners, Jorge and Claudia have been watching their utility bills rise faster than the temperatures. Tired of seeing double-digit increases in their utility bills, Jorge and Claudia knew it was time to consider other options. That’s when they began wondering if solar power would be worth a look.

Jorge began researching solar companies like SunPower. After following them on Facebook, he was notified that they would be hosting a live Q&A about the Inflation Reduction Act. He decided to attend and learned quite a bit about the incentives being provided to homeowners. One fact that stood out to him was that SunPower passes on the savings from the 30% solar investment tax credit to help reduce the cost of leasing solar. When the couple realized the benefits of the IRA extended beyond just customers who purchased their systems, leasing their solar system seemed like a no-brainer.

Jorge and Claudia made a virtual appointment with a SunPower solar advisor to assess their situation. Here’s what they learned:

With a 7-kilowatt (kW) system on their 2,500 square-foot home, Jorge and Claudia can expect to save on average around $104 per month on their electric bill, depending on the season. These savings would be more than enough to cover the $91 per month lease payment, enabling them to immediately benefit from solar with no upfront cost.

Apart from savings, there are other benefits to leasing a solar system. For one thing, SunPower maintains the solar system during the term of the lease, meaning Jorge and Claudia wouldn’t have to worry about any repairs or updates should the need ever arise. Secondly, SunPower offers a performance guarantee. If the couple’s solar system doesn’t perform as agreed upon in their Lease Agreement, they can be eligible for reimbursement of any lost production.

So, how much can Jorge and Claudia actually save?

Estimated average monthly savings from solar after lease payment: $13

Estimated annual savings: $156

Even better, Jorge and Claudia learned that the solar on their roof would help “green up” the electricity grid in Florida by producing clean energy.

Claudia and Jorge decided going solar was the best investment they could make as a young family. It would help reduce their electricity bill and redirect their current investments toward clean energy instead of going to the utility company.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Can Solar + Storage Solve the Challenges of Grid Reliability?

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 16:00:09 GMT

Can Solar + Storage Solve the Challenges of Grid Reliability?

For many, this summer has been long and hot – very hot. And these high temperatures have done more than just disrupt summer vacations. The extreme heat is leading many to install air conditioning in locations that previously never needed it – such as the Pacific Northwest and Northern states including Idaho and Montana. That extra strain on the grid has prompted electricity failures and rolling blackouts.

In Texas alone, residents have experienced record-breaking temperatures this summer with local meteorologists reporting daily highs of over 100 degrees for several consecutive weeks. As a result, the Lone Star State was asked to reduce electricity usage to prevent grid failure. That kind of request is nothing new for Californians that have dealt with public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) for years.

Having reliable power when extreme weather hits is no longer just about comfort. It can have a major effect on your life from disrupting your work from home to draining your bank account. So, it’s worth asking: when the grid is so overtaxed, could distributed resources like solar energy help the grid become more reliable?

The Rise of Renewables

The transition to renewable energy is well underway. Wind and solar provided a record 10% of global electricity generation in 2021. In the U.S., renewable energy contributed about 20% of total electricity last year, according to the Energy Information Administration.

But we still have work to do. While global energy consumption declined during the pandemic, energy use has more than rebounded, increasing 5.5% in 2021, the biggest jump since the 1970s. All of this growth is good news for the economy but challenging for grid infrastructure.

Rooftop Solar Helps the Grid Keep Powering

Home solar systems can benefit grid reliability. First, solar energy directly reduces demand on the electrical grid during peak times. A home with rooftop solar does not need as much electricity from the grid because its solar panels often generate enough energy to meet the home’s needs.

Second, solar + storage can improve the resiliency of the grid during extreme weather events that are becoming more commonplace due to the impact of climate change. This is because solar energy systems can often operate in an off-grid function, freeing up electricity for the rest of the community.

It’s All About Independence

We all like the freedom to adjust our thermostats as we choose. One way to achieve energy independence for your own personal comfort (and costs) is to install a solar system with backup power. The SunPower Sunvault system, for example, enables consumers to choose whether to send excess energy back to the grid or store the energy for use during a high-demand event, whether that event is a spate of extremely hot weather or a PSPS event planned by California utility providers like PGE.

In fact, solar + storage played a unique role for The Golden State in early September when a massive heatwave challenged California’s grid. An analysis conducted by the California Solar + Storage Association (CALSSA) found that distributed solar batteries can save the day when Mother Nature takes a toll. California now hosts over 80,000 batteries that are connected to the electrical grid and are capable of providing 900 MW of clean energy. This was just what the state needed on September 6, 2022. When demand skyrocketed, these solar batteries kicked into gear and prevented residents from experiencing any sort of power outage. Since then, this event has become a prime example of what the future of clean energy looks like with backup power.

Having solar + storage provides peace of mind and helps with grid stability at the same time. As more homes switch to electric and the grid experiences even higher demands from additional loads like EV chargers, every part of our energy system – from generation to transmission to use -- needs to be smarter and more resilient.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Powering Through Blackouts: How the IRA Helps Homeowners Add Solar Batteries

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 17:54:51 GMT

Powering Through Blackouts: How the IRA Helps Homeowners Add Solar Batteries

In this ongoing series, we’re looking at how people across the United States are finding new ways to save money and curb carbon emissions with clean energy through the Inflation Reduction Act. In this scenario, a couple in California is interested in adding a solar battery to their rooftop solar system to ensure resilience during power outages. But would the investment pay off?

Kate and her husband, Sam, live in a suburban neighborhood in Stockton outside of San Francisco. They’ve experienced a number of blackouts this year. In fact, the power outages got so bad over the summer that the food in their refrigerator spoiled. Kate is a nurse at the local hospital but Sam works from home and the summer has been tough on him. When the electricity was out for three days straight during a late summer heat wave, he finally decided something had to give.

When Kate and Sam bought their house two years ago, they were happy to see that the previous owners had recently installed SunPower solar panels on the roof. The 10-kW system has drastically cut down their utility bill, making it possible to put more money into savings. While chatting with a neighbor down their street, the couple also learned that SunPower’s SunVault storage system can be used to generate further energy savings. SunVault gives homeowners the option to choose what they want to do with their excess power. While storing it for grid failures is certainly the most talked about feature, the solar storage system can also be activated during peak demand times to cover additional electricity fees. This function coupled with its ability to kick in when the power goes out has made SunVault a very attractive clean energy solution for Kate and Sam.

Kate has seen the massive investment in backup generators that the hospital had to make to keep the power on. Adding energy storage to her home’s solar system always seemed out of reach financially. But she heard about the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act on the way to work and now she’s wondering if the incentives might help their situation. She and Sam are willing to use at least part of their $300-400 a month savings from solar power if solar storage can ensure they’ll never lose power.

How might the IRA help them realize their goal of solar + storage?

Let’s look at the numbers. To get the most out of their 10-kW solar system, Kate and Sam would need to invest in a 13-kWh energy storage system. Fortunately, their SunPower solar panels pair well with the SunPower Sunvault energy storage system, which ensures seamless transfers from grid power to battery power and back again.The SunVault lets customers set their own preferences on whether to store energy for later use or send it back to the grid for even greater savings. They can choose to always have enough backup power, use the stored power to charge an electric vehicle, or share any excess with the grid when their solar is really churning, which happens frequently in the long days of summer.

The IRA provides for a 30% tax credit on the purchase of an energy storage system. How much would that save Kate and Sam?

SunVault cost (including installation): $18,000

30% Investment Tax Credit: $12,600

How long would it take Kate and Sam to see a return on their investment in energy storage?

Current Annual Savings with Solar: $4,500

Additional Savings with Energy Storage: $60

Monthly Loan for Energy Storage: $90

Kate and Sam decide that ensuring their power never fails is worth the small monthly investment—especially as California moves toward a zeronet energy future.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

EV Chargers Become a Popular Amenity for New Home Communities

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 18:12:38 GMT

EV Chargers Become a Popular Amenity for New Home Communities

Electric vehicle sales hit an all-time high in Q2 of this year, signaling that the transition to an all-electric lifestyle is gaining speed. A study conducted by Cox Automotive showed that EV sales accounted for 5.6% of the total market, a large jump from the 2.7% market share at the same time last year. With rising gas prices and new policies to promote growth in the industry, experts predict these numbers to increase rapidly.

One industry that is acutely aware of the rising trend is the new homes market. Some of the nation’s top builders are jumping in feet first to develop all-electric communities. Part of this is due to California’s groundbreaking Title 24 energy code that requires all new homes to be built with solar power and other sustainable features. Within the code are mandates for a percentage of multifamily parking areas to be designated as EV ready and all new homes to have 240-volt outlets installed, supporting electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries. Many of these requirements are recent as the Title 24 energy code continues to evolve to meet the Golden State’s ambitious climate goals.

In addition to the Title 24 energy code, a historic vote by the California Air Resources Board to phase out new gas-fueled vehicles recently passed in California. By 2026, the state plans for 35% of new vehicle sales to be electric and 68% by 2030. The policy is expected to catch on in other U.S. states and will be another amplifier for EV adoption.

These changes can be hard to keep up with, and consulting with SunPower’s new homes and multifamily solar professionals can help builders avoid costly pitfalls. The main key to success lies in integrating these clean energy technologies during the initial design phase of the new development. Working solar energy, solar batteries and EV chargers into the building’s foundational designs can save builders money and time, while simultaneously respecting the structure’s aesthetics.

For example, multifamily developers that prepare the necessary infrastructure for EV expansion not only meet code but also can take advantage of an additional revenue stream. Through smart EV charging and load management software, property owners can recuperate the charges at retail rates for EV charging (ranging on average from .25 to .40 cents per kilowatt hour). These meters can even be offset by applying credits acquired from the development’s solar generation. Between the rate charged to drivers and the solar credits applied to the EV accounts, property owners can generate profits and offer an attractive amenity for tenants.

The process is simpler for single-family new home communities but the idea of incorporating EV charging into the design phase still stands true. Equipping homes with 240-volt outlets gives homeowners the freedom to use better, cleaner energy as they choose. Some of the nation’s top builders are leading the way on this adoption by building full communities equipped with clean energy amenities including solar panels, solar storage and EV chargers. In fact, The New Home Company has made SunPower’s clean energy solutions a standard feature in its Eureka Grove community in California. These homes include a SunPower Equinox®solar system, a 13 kWh SunVault™ system and Wallbox Pulsar Plus EV charger.

With incentives for builders and homeowners alike in the new Inflation Reduction Act legislation, electrification trends are only expected to increase. The solar ITC has been restored to 30% and will be available for the next 10 years, along with a 30% tax credit for solar batteries. Qualified taxpayers can also take advantage of a 30% tax credit on EV chargers. And, there is a tax credit of up to $7,500 for qualified EV owners that meet specific requirements.

New home and multifamily developers that plan EV charging into their projects will set themselves ahead of the curve as EV sales increase. At SunPower, our clean energy pros are happy to help you get started on the right path with high-quality products and guidance that can help you cut project expenses. Contact us and together we’ll help change the way our world is powered.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Uri’s Story: How the Inflation Reduction Act Can Help This Future EV Driver Save

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 17:59:31 GMT

Uri’s Story: How the Inflation Reduction Act Can Help This Future EV Driver Save

The Inflation Reduction Act is recognized as the most significant clean energy legislation in U.S. history. But what can the average American expect to gain from the new law’s incentives? In this ongoing series, we’ll provide real-world scenarios of the potential savings for solar, energy storage, electric vehicles and more. Today, we start with Uri’s story.

Uri works as an electrician in Chatham, New Jersey. While he considers himself to be a car buff, Uri has never really been convinced that an EV has the power and acceleration he wants. At least that was the case until he drove a friend’s EV and the acceleration really caught his attention. Uri has been shopping around for a new car for a few months but just hasn’t found the right fit. He’s now wondering if he should consider an EV.

Just as with every big life decision, Uri has some other things to factor into his car buying decision. For example, he has two children nearing college age, so Uri and his wife are focused on saving. Even though their household income brings in around $210,000 per year, he had always assumed EVs were too expensive. But with the new incentives just for electric vehicle owners in the Inflation Reduction Act, he thinks he might be able to qualify for up to $7,500 off the price of an EV.

That’s got him wondering…should the family go all-in by putting solar on their roof and an EV charger in the garage? He likes the idea of charging his car with clean energy. He’s heard that solar energy can help him lower his utility bills as well. And, his utility, recently said that they want to increase his electric rates. Right now, he’s already spending around $180 a month.

But how much would all of this cost? Even with all the incentives, Uri isn’t sure he can really afford any of this.

The Inflation Reduction Act offers EV owners financial benefits including up to $7,500 off the purchase of an EV and a 30% tax credit on the installation of home EV charging systems.*

Uri has done some research and knows that to get the full EV tax credit of $7,500, the car he chooses has to be manufactured in North America with an MSRP under $55,000 for a sedan or $80,000 for a truck or SUV. Uri has his eye on a Chevy Silverado RST to carry all of his electrician tools. He was excited to discover that even if he adds a few bells and whistles to his purchase, he’ll still be able to stay well under that max.

Most homeowners find that powering an EV at home is much more convenient than public charging. In fact, 80% of electric vehicle owners choose to charge at home. Charging an EV can take hours, especially for large capacity vehicles like trucks. Uri could save himself a lot of time if he were to install a Level 2 EV charging system in his garage.

Uri has looked into home charging units a bit too and decides he likes the convenience of getting the well-reviewed Wallbox EV charger installed at the same time as a SunPower solar system. The two products really seem to make sense together since EV chargers typically increase a home’s power load.

With a rooftop system like a SunPower Equinox, Uri would be able to run his Chevy Silverado RST on pure sunshine versus relying on the rising prices and harmful pollutants caused by traditional fossil fuels. Through solar power and an EV charger, Uri and his family could offset much of their electricity and all of their gas bills while ensuring a measure of resilience during south Jersey’s increased frequency of major tropical storms. This idea gives Uri a level of peace of mind he hadn’t anticipated. He also likes the flexibility of leasing his solar system.

Now, let’s do the math. How much would the system cost vs. how much Uri can expect to save on energy costs and tax incentives?

Estimated costs

10.88 kW SunPower Equinox

WallBox: $1,600

Chevy Silverado RST: $52,974

Projected electricity offset from solar: $1,884 and after monthly lease payments of $132, an annual savings of $300. Without the ITC, the lease payments would be about $189/month.

Projected Annual savings on gas: $1,500

Estimated tax credits

Electric vehicle: $7,500

Wallbox: $1,120

Once he does the math, Uri decides it makes perfect sense to get started on a solar design while he finishes configuring his EV. Further, he learns that if he moves forward with leasing from SunPower, they will pass the savings from the Inflation Reduction Act onto him. Though he won’t receive the credit directly, the 30% solar tax credit will allow him to benefit from lower payments.

For more real-world examples of how to leverage the IRA for your own home energy needs, keep an eye out for new blog posts over the coming weeks.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

10 Clean Energy Benefits in the Inflation Reduction Act That Could Change Your Home and Fill Your Wallet

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:52:05 GMT

10 Clean Energy Benefits in the Inflation Reduction Act That Could Change Your Home and Fill Your Wallet

President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law on August 16, 2022. This historic bill covers several issues impacting American lives today but is anchored by clean energy and climate related investments totaling nearly $370 billion.

There is a lot to unpack in the 730-page document, ranging from corporate tax law to drug price mandates to renewable energy rebates. The intricacies and sheer volume left a lot of people confused and wondering, “what’s in it for me?”

The good news? We read the bill so that you don’t have to! There are a lot of amazing benefits for people that want to save money on their electricity bills, make their home energy more reliable or reduce their carbon footprint. For instance — do you already have a SunPower solar system but are thinking about adding a SunVault storage system to protect your family against those ever-increasing power outages? Starting in 2023, you can get a 30% tax credit on a solar battery.

It's probably not surprising that there are extra benefits and some limitations depending on your income level, location or other personal factors. To help illustrate how you can get the most out of the bill, we'll be showcasing real-world scenarios of people planning their own tax breaks, rebates and incentives over the next few weeks. Stay tuned!

For now, here are the top 10 things you should know:

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Comparing Solar Financing Options with SunPower

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 15:37:44 GMT

Many considerations come along with choosing to install solar power on your home. But often the first question homeowners ask is, "Can I afford to go solar?"

The answer for most is yes. SunPower offers a variety of accessible financing options to suit your unique needs. While some homeowners are focused on adding long-term value to their homes with their solar installation, others want to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without a commitment to buy. Here’s an overview of SunPower’s offerings to help you decide on the right financial path for your solar installation.

Buy Your Power

Leasing a solar system or participating in a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with SunPower gives homeowners all the benefits of going solar without purchasing the system. A solar lease allows you to rent your solar system for a monthly payment, similar to renting a home or apartment. With a solar PPA, you agree to purchase the electricity generated by a solar system installed at your home instead of paying to rent the system. SunPower owns and maintains the solar system with both of these options.

Many homeowners get started with little or no upfront cost and can begin seeing cost savings shortly after system installation and activation. You’ll also have peace of mind that you are getting exceptional value from the solar system on your roof for the full length of your agreement with SunPower’s low degradation rate and production guarantee. If the solar system does not perform as expected, SunPower will provide compensation for lost production as outlined in your lease or PPA agreement.

SunPower also understands that your circumstances might change in the future, and we’ve got you covered. If you decide that you want to own your system, we’re happy to work with you to calculate an early buyout amount or weigh your options for making early payments. If you end up selling your home during your lease/PPA term, your SunPower agreement is 100% transferrable to qualified customers.

Buy Your System

A solar loan with SunPower enables homeowners to borrow money to purchase their solar system. When you become the owner of a solar system, you are in charge of its maintenance but SunPower makes this easy too. Our Complete Confidence Warranty covers your whole solar system; 25 years for all solar work and equipment on the roof (panels, microinverters and racking), 10 years for everything off the roof (monitoring system and storage system).

SunPower Financing offers competitive interest rate loans as low as 0% for 10-year loans with no penalty for prepayment. Similar to buying your power from SunPower, many qualified customers are eligible for $0-down options when buying their system. Flexible financing choices and terms are available to help you minimize total financing fees or lower your monthly payment.

How do I know what option is right for me?

SunPower and its extensive network of dealers are here to help you find the best path forward for your home and your budget. Our energy consultants will help you calculate how much you can save depending on the financing option you choose and your monthly electricity usage. Once you’ve found your preferred solution, you can apply with ease and start your solar journey.

Learn more about payment options with SunPower or set up a free virtual consultation to see how much you can save.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Moving? How SunPower Helps Homeowners with Their Solar System During Life Changes

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 17:19:29 GMT

Buying or selling a home is a big change for any family. There are several things to consider during the process, making the question of what to do with your solar system feel daunting. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. Realtors and homeowners are also increasingly savvy about promoting the value of solar power when it comes to home sales and purchases. But even without that expertise, the ins and outs of buying and selling homes with solar panels aren’t that complicated.

Apart from paying for your solar system in full, here are three main ways to finance a home solar system – loan, lease or PPA. How you purchase your system can impact the process for selling your home.

Purchase – If you’ve purchased your home’s solar system outright, then you should be able to factor that into your asking price just as you would other upgrades, like a remodeled kitchen or new roof. How much you can factor it in will depend in part on how much money you save each month on your electricity bills and how long you’ve had your system. An average house saves between $10,000 and $30,000 over the lifetime of the solar system. That’s a great selling point for any home.

Loan – Buying a solar system through a loan allows homeowners to pay over time while taking advantage of tax credits, like the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) and similar state and local solar incentives.But what happens if you need to sell that home? That depends upon the loan.

If you have a home-equity loan against the house, you will have to pay off the balance of the loan before you sell. If it’s an unsecured loan that doesn’t use the house as collateral, you can sell – but you will be responsible for paying off the loan. In some instances, lenders will even allow you to transfer the loan to the new homeowner if their credit meets the lender’s criteria. Because these circumstances vary, it’s always a good idea to ask your lender what options are available to you.

The good news is that these are the same options people face when they borrow to make any home upgrade. It should help you command a higher price for the house and to pay off any loan.

Lease –The person selling the home can transfer the lease to the new homeowner. It is important to note that the buyer will need to meet the credit criteria of the company that owns the lease. Usually, that’s not a problem in a home sale because the buyer presumably has solid credit.

It is also good to be aware of the possibility that the lease owner may charge a fee to the current homeowner for the transfer. Be sure to take the time to understand the details of your lease.

PPA – Power purchase agreements are similar to leases because the homeowner does not own the solar system. Instead, they purchase the electricity thatisgenerated by the solar panels on their roof. If you happen to have a PPA with SunPower, you can simply transfer the agreement to the new qualified owner.

Education is a homeowner’s best defense against any buyer hesitation. Be ready to provide data on your solar system, especially information showing how it saves money and reduces pollution. The mySunPower app can be especially helpful. Local real estate agents and SunPower’s dealer networkare also good resources to tap into.

In conclusion, SunPower can help you buy or sell a solar-powered home with ease. For additional information on navigating this process, visit our life events resource page.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Does Solar Energy Allow You to Go Off Grid?

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 16:06:04 GMT

Does Solar Energy Allow You to Go Off Grid?

Living off-grid, better defined as not having a dependence on public utilities such as electricity, sounds appealing for a lot of reasons. The idea of being self-sufficient, powering your own home with solar energy and maybe even building that home with your own two hands can sound like an appealing challenge for freedom chasers.

Maybe you’ve thought about it many times before, could you really hack it out there alone in the wild? Exactly how feasible is it to live without the electrical grid using solar energy as your one and only power source?

Whether you dream of that cabin in the woods or just want to exert your energy independence over your local utility, going off grid is possible but that doesn’t mean that it’s beneficial. For starters, being off grid takes a lot of advance planning, not to mention that it’s incredibly expensive to get started. Plus, you’ll need to have backup energy sources on hand, particularly if you’re not ready to let go of your power-hungry devices.

When it comes down to the question of whether SunPower solar panels have the capability to power an off grid project, the answer is easy. Yes, they most certainly do. With the most efficient solar panels on the market, a well-designed SunPower solar system can handle any energy need that pops up. But even with this in mind, we’ve actually found that there are some pretty good reasons to stay connected to the grid.

First, staying on the grid enables you to support your local community. Solar power has the amazing benefit of helping reduce strain on the electrical grid when demand rises during peak times or extreme weather hits. By generating your own clean power and even sending excess energy back to the utility in some cases, you are creating a more reliable electrical grid.

Virtual power plants (VPP) are another example of homeowners using their solar systems for the greater good of their community. VPPs come into play when energy demand is higher than the available amount. When this occurs, home batteries that are connected to the VPP trade their stored electricity to the electrical grid to help meet the demand. SunPower is participating in a VPP program called ConnectedSolutions. Eversource, National Grid, and Cape Light Compact customers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut are invited to participate where eligible.

The reliability of the electrical grid has become an increasing concern for many homeowners as power outages become more commonplace. That’s why the popularity of home solar systems and VPPs has been on the rise. In the 2021 Energy Sense Index conducted last year, SunPower discovered that two out of every five homeowners worry about power outages every month of the year. This has led homeowners to seek out solutions, a call that solar + storage has answered. This leads us to our next point.

Second, solar + storage gives you the energy independence you’ve been searching for without all of the unwanted tasks that come with actually being off grid. With the SunPower Sunvault™ Storage system, you can back up enough power for extended periods of time. Depending on your system size, SunVault can power your whole home during a power outage. When the utility schedules its next rolling blackout, you can live in comfort using home appliances, keeping the lights on and even charging your electric vehicle.

The third reason for staying connected to the grid is probably the most pragmatic. Staying on the grid can help you save more money. Many solar homeowners have the option to take advantage of net energy metering (NEM), a state provided incentive that gives homeowners a credit for any excess energy they send back to the grid. When homeowners produce more clean energy than they consume in a given day, this power can be sent back to the utility. SunPower’s high-efficiency solar panels help homeowners maximize their solar production, leading to big savings on their utility bills. You can find out what NEM incentives your state provides by visiting DSIRE’s website.

When it comes down to it, local utility companies provide a valuable service to customers in times of critical need. Homeowners and utilities can and should collaborate to create a more reliable, decentralized grid. And solar + energy storage is making that possible right now.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What is Net Energy Metering and How Can it Help You Save Money?

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 17:01:13 GMT

What is Net Energy Metering and How Can it Help You Save Money?

Adopting solar energy offers homeowners many great benefits. One of the best – for those who can take advantage of it – is net metering, also referred to as net energy metering. With net metering, you can be credited for any extra clean energy your solar panels produce and send back to the electric grid.

These extra credits roll over monthly, until they are trued up on an annual basis. The bill crediting, rollover and true-up structure ensures that homeowners can use their solar system to offset their home electricity consumption over the course of the year. It’s important to note that net metering programs place limits on the size of a solar system, to ensure the solar power generated matches your approximate annual electricity consumption.

Most homeowners rely on the grid to power their homes some of the time, like at night for example. When that happens, your utility charges a regular retail rate for the grid electricity consumed. With net metering, that process goes in reverse. A system producing extra electricity through solar then sends it back to the grid making the electric meter run backward.

Under an ideal net metering program, you receive a credit for that grid-bound energy at the same retail rate charged by your utility for any in-bound energy needed. At the end of the billing period, the utility provides a credit on your electricity bill for the net amount of energy they send back to the grid, which gives us the name “net energy metering.”

But net metering program details are determined by state elected officials and regulators. This means the value of the credits homeowners receive for the extra clean energy they send to the grid and can vary by state and utility. Not all net energy metering programs give people the full retail rate on their electricity bill for the extra clean energy they generate from their solar system that goes back to the grid. For instance, Nevada solar customers receive 75% of the retail rate (vs. 100%).

Also, not all solar systems are large enough to produce enough energy to meet your annual electricity consumption. Some homes have small solar systems that offset only a portion of your annual energy usage.

But for many homes with large solar systems, net metering can save people hundreds of dollars a year. And while net metering does not typically “pay” homeowners money directly, it does cut the cost of their energy bills, and that – along with free, clean energy each month – helps pay off the cost of their solar systems.

What is the best way to find out more about net metering in your state? Talk to members of SunPower’s highly trained dealer networkas well as our Master Dealers. As your SunPower dealer fills you in on net energy metering in your specific region, they can also give you a clear idea about how much the system will cost and how soon you will see a return on your investment.

You can also go toSunPower’s Design Studioto quickly find out how your new solar system will look on your property and how much you can save each month in energy bills.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Three Ways SunPower is Transforming Customer Care for Homeowners

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 18:58:58 GMT

During our 37 years of service, we’ve had the great privilege of providing more than 427,000 homes with solar power. While this is an impressive number, when you look at the bigger picture, less than 4% of homes in the United States are powered by clean energy. That means there are still many homeowners looking for a solution that both reduces their carbon footprint and helps them find electricity savings. At SunPower, we want to ensure that each point of contact we make is effortless, productive, and—hopefully—enjoyable.

Thanks to feedback from homeowners like you, our team has identified three ways to enhance our approach to customer service. SunPower is committed to achieving a world-class level of customer care that matches the reputation and caliber of our industry-leading products.

1. Improving Self Service Resources

We know that when it comes down to it, customers feel empowered when they can solve their own problems. Providing easy-to-navigate solutions that you can implement yourself lets you quickly get back to the things that matter most. Because we understand that contacting us is an interruption in your day, we are working to provide more automation and self-service options. For example, we are currently focusing on enhancing online support, so you can get answers in a few clicks or less.

2. Taking a Proactive Approach

Whether it’s listening to feedback, answering a simple question or addressing an issue, our customer care team talks to roughly 15,000 customers a week. But for us, you’re more than just a number in a queue. Every time you contact SunPower, we use it as a learning experience. Our team is trained to listen for opportunities to improve your overall SunPower experience in every conversation. They actively advocate for change on your behalf by sharing your ideas with SunPower leadership.

In fact, when a technical error is brought to our attention, we do more than just work on the system of the homeowner that contacted us. SunPower looks for other products that might be experiencing similar issues and moves to correct those as well, oftentimes before those homeowners realize that something isn’t functioning properly.

3. Investing in Our Team

While we are working to give you plenty of self-service options, there are times when you’ll need to reach out and talk with someone. SunPower understands that when this happens, you want to work with someone that is knowledgeable. That’s why we’re investing in better tools and training to ensure that our customer care employees develop expertise with our systems. From product knowledge to more technical aspects, we want them to know solar power like the back of their hand and we won’t stop until you see it for yourself.

When you choose SunPower, you aren’t just choosing industry-leading solar + storage solutions, you’re also putting your confidence in our team. That matters to us, so stay tuned as we continue working on ways to provide top-notch service. We believe that only through improving our customer experience can we make solar easy and accessible for all consumers.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Three New Renewable Energy Incentive Programs for California Multifamily Developers

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 18:05:29 GMT

Three New Renewable Energy Incentive Programs for California Multifamily Developers

It’s a common concern that has dominated industry headlines throughout the year. If you’re in the business of new home construction, you know all too well that building costs have skyrocketed since the pandemic began.

Concerns over supply chain issues, tariffs and labor shortages are just a few of the factors driving up construction expenses. In a commentary provided by Fannie Mae, the price to build a 4-7 story apartment building has increased approximately 8.3% since 2020. Despite growing expenditures, experts expect the multifamily sector to continue trending upwards as renter demand remains steadfast.

With no clear path of cost relief in sight for multifamily builders, it’s safe to say that every cent counts now more than ever. So how can multifamily developers maximize profit? One major way to offset higher costs is by adding new assets that bring in more income. A properly designed, on-site solar system is a great example, producing new income for decades.

Through virtual net energy metering (VNEM), long term gains can be generated from solar. With VNEM, solar generation at multifamily rental properties is converted into utility bill credits and allocated to each meter—helping builders boost their net operating income and share savings with tenants if they choose. In this way, money saved from utility expenses is great for the builder’s bottom line and touts an attractive amenity for renters looking to live sustainably. VNEM can be fully explained to you by a SunPower energy consultant.

But beyond the long-term cost savings that solar energy brings to the table, SunPower can guide you on what incentive programs are available based on your location. For multifamily builders in the Golden State, three new incentive programs have recently made their way into the spotlight.

BUILD Program

The Building Initiative for Low-Emissions Development (BUILD) is a program through the California Energy Commission (CEC) that provides builders with incentives for all-electric, low-income residential buildings that reduce harmful carbon emissions. BUILD focuses on providing renewable energy technologies in affordable housing developments. Awards up to $2 million are available to each applicant and include a kicker incentive for additional clean energy technologies such as solar storage.

Builders can apply by submitting a complete BUILD Incentive Reservation Application package.

Energy-Smart Homes Program

The Energy-Smart Homes Program is organized through the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and provides incentives for all-electric new home construction. The program has $12 million in incentives for builders each year through 2025, and there’s an extension option available. Even better is the fact that it can be layered with other programs like BUILD. Applications for this program are currently being accepted.

California Electric Homes Program

Currently under development, the California Electric Homes Program was created to incentivize electric buildings and energy storage. It is expected to launch with $58 million allocated in its first phase. Overarching guidelines for the program are expected within the month followed by a public comment period in late 2022 or early 2023. The SunPower team is working closely alongside this particular incentive program and will keep builders up to date on its progression.

For many of the incentive programs above, being compliant with California’s Title 24 energy code is a prerequisite. The mandate states that solar panels are required on all new residential construction three-stories or less. SunPower’s multifamily construction experts work with architects and builders alike to bring the world’s best solar technology to their units while helping them avoid costly pitfalls. In other words, SunPower is all about helping builders save money.

With over 80,000 new home solar installations and counting, it’s easy to see why SunPower is trusted by the nation’s leading homebuilders like KB Home, Toll Brothers and Meritage Homes. We offer industry-leading whole home renewable energy solutions from solar storage to EV chargers, and our solar panels are rated for the highest efficiency and durability. If you’d like to learn more about how to maximize your investment with solar energy, contact our team.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Home Solar Goes Virtual Through ConnectedSolutions

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:36:04 GMT

In today’s world, just about everything is virtual – from virtual meetings to virtual currency to the innovative realm of virtual reality. With the advent of pairing energy storage with residential solar, homeowners can now participate in virtual power plants or VPPs.

How do virtual power plants or VPPs work?

Virtual power plants trade stored electricity from connected residential batteries to the utility grid when the demand for power exceeds the available supply.

The central premise of the virtual power plant is expanding the resilience and reliability for homeowners to the larger community. Connecting your solar+ storage system with other solar batteries in your area creates a shared supply of clean energy that reduces grid infrastructure costs for everyone and is designed to smooth out fluctuations in demand and supply on the power grid.

For example, on a hot summer day when many neighborhood air-conditioning units turn on at the same time, utilities need additional resources to meet the increased demand. Utilities could ask actual power plants to turn on to meet this need, but it’s often cheaper and more efficient to ask a VPP made up of neighborhood rooftop solar + storage systems to disperse more stable and sustainable energy.

What are the benefits of a VPP?

Customers in select locations with a SunVault storage systemwho decide to enroll in SunPower’s ConnectedSolutions VPP can receive seasonal participation payments. For those that choose to enroll, compensation is based on performance and provided by the homeowner’s local program administrator. Performance is calculated by taking the average kilowatts (kW) your SunVault storage system contributes per event, averaged over the season, and then compared to your typical solar battery use.

Customers can choose how much energy to store for later use, and work with SunPower to determine how much to sell to participating utilities through their SunVault control system. SunPower coordinates the charge and discharge of the battery, sharing energy to the utility on the customers’ behalf while reserving some electricity in the battery for backup power to the home.

With nearly half of homeowners having experienced an outage in the last year, VPPs are a great way for citizens and utilities to work together to reduce those outages – and there’s an added benefit of putting more money into homeowners’ pockets. Unlike other providers, SunPower passes all grid payments in this program directly to participants, who can earn hundreds of dollars per year in exchange for allowing the utility to discharge their battery during times of peak energy demand.

How can I get started?

Currently, SunPower is participating in the ConnectedSolutions program available with Eversource, National Grid, and Cape Light Compact customers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. And SunPower has plans to expand VPP opportunities in the future.

Those enrolled in ConnectedSolutions will have the opportunity to participate during their local utilities' VPP season, running June through September each year.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Four Key Takeaways from SunPower’s 2021 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 16:15:34 GMT

Four Key Takeaways from SunPower’s 2021 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

With 37 years of innovation under our belt, SunPower is not just the longest-standing major solar company in the U.S., we’re also one of the most recognizable brands. Our team plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable, equitable and inclusive business practices. And, as part of our commitment to change how the world is powered, SunPower recently released our 2021 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report to show homeowners and solar energy advocates alike what we accomplished in 2021, as well as commitments through 2022 and beyond.

Below are a few highlights from the report, featuring the work we’ve done to reduce carbon emissions, support supplier and dealer diversity and minimize waste streams.

Environmental Impact

Since 2005, SunPower solar installations have generated 133 terawatt-hours (TWh), the equivalent of avoiding 94 million metric tons of carbon emissions. The offset CO2 from our world-class products is equivalent to negating greenhouse gas emissions from 104 billion pounds of coal burned or 11 billion gallons of gasoline consumed. In 2021 alone, we enabled 14 million metric tons of CO2e of carbon avoidance for our customers.

Electric Fleet and Green Logistics

SunPower’s focus on sustainability extends to our logistics, freight network and vehicle fleet, with specific goals established to reduce carbon emissions. The targets we’ve set to maximize a positive environmental impact includes converting at least 90% of our U.S. fleet of vehicles to electric or hybrid vehicles by 2030. Additionally, SunPower is working to reduce carbon emissions from our downstream freight, establishing programs to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. SunPower products and services -- along with the efforts of our homeowners -- already make a palpable difference in the fight against climate change, and these new operational efforts further amplify this effort.

SunPower’s 25x25 Pledge and Supplier Diversity

In Sep tember 2021, SunPower launched a 25x25 Initiative with a series of new commitments established to accelerate diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) in the solar industry by 2025. The 25x25 Initiative outlines pledges to increase workforce diversity, expand solar energy access for historically marginalized communities and ensure industry equity through new dealer and subcontractor diversity. The obligations in the 25x25 Initiative will be measured in our annual ESG report moving forward.

Part of this initiative is the commitment that by 2025, 25% of SunPower’s U.S. residential homeowners (single and multi-family) will be made up of people who live in historically under-represented communities. To reach this goal, SunPower is establishing a new program to provide homeowners with no-interest loans. Solar power provides a variety of benefits to consumers including decreased energy costs, backup during power outages and the opportunity for energy independence, and we believe these opportunities should be available to all Americans regardless of economic background.

Waste Management and Product Recycling

SunPower utilizes a national network of approved recyclers for our solar panel, electrical and mechanical waste to maintain environmentally responsible disposal of inventory. Components with remaining life are tested, reused or resold. The portion of inventory that is unusable is shipped to Responsible Recycling, a group of recyclers specializing in precious metal salvaging as well as the circular use of raw materials. SunPower also helps to provide homeowners with more accessible module recycling, partnering with PV recyclers regionally to lessen the freight mileage of waste streams.

Additional details about SunPower’s focus on sustainability -- including our efforts towards supplier diversity, health and safety culture and innovative new product offerings -- can be found in the full report by visiting our ESG page.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Can You Install Solar Panels on Tile Roofs?

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:34:43 GMT

When you’re ready to install solar panels on your home, there are many factors that will determine the unique design and cost of your SunPower solar system. Various roof types require different installation processes. For example, lightweight tile roofs can present unique challenges and considerations for a solar installer. Here are a few things you need to know before adding solar energy to your tile roof.

What is unique about solar installations on lightweight tile roofs?

Cement and clay tile roofs, sometimes known as Spanish tile or terra cotta tile, are commonly found in the west and southwest United States. The following three shapes are typically associated with this style of tile-- “W,” “S” or flat tile. Tiles weighing less than nine pounds per square foot are classified as lightweight tiles. Have you ever tried to walk across your tile roof to complete a repair or maintenance? Chances are, you might've damaged a few of these tiles in the process because they are brittle and can break easily.

Attempting to install solar panels directly on top of a lightweight tile roof is inadvisable. While they may hold up well against harsh weather, these tiles are not designed to withstand the stress of added pressure. Breaks or cracks can occur during the solar installation process, potentially compromising roof integrity and leading to leaks and other damage to your home. Drilling through these tiles may also result in damage to the base layer of your roof called the underlayment, which is used for extra protection below tiles or shingles.

Some solar installers will choose to remove individual tiles and replace them with special tile replacement mounts. Although this method may work for heavyweight tiles, lightweight tiles that are not removed are still at risk. If this method of installation is pursued and solar panels are successfully mounted without tile breakage, there is still a possibility of issues down the road. Because lightweight tiles are fragile, vibrations that occur from wind passing between the panels and the racking system sitting on top of the tiles can result in future incidents.

How do you install solar panels on tile roofs?

A preferred technique utilized to install SunPower’s highly efficient solar panels on a lightweight tile roof is called an inset solar installation, sometimes referred to as a “comp-out.” This process will add additional steps and costs to your solar project but will give you long-term durability and help prevent potential damage to your home.

During this process, a roofing professional removes the existing tile roof from the area where the solar array will be installed and lays new composite shingles in its place. Transitions are reinforced with sheet metal called flashing and sealed to ensure the roof is completely waterproof.

Next, a solar expert installs the solar array on the composite shingle surface. Accidental harm to composite shingles that could lead to a compromised roof is unlikely, particularly in comparison to the potential of inadvertent damage to fragile lightweight tiles.

After solar installation on the composite shingles is complete, the area around the solar array is filled in with the previously removed tiles. This creates the aesthetically pleasing appearance of the solar array being built into the roof.

What are the benefits of an inset solar panel installation?

Like other roof replacements that are a part of the solar installation process, the costs associated with solar-necessary upgrades of comp-outs may be eligible for the Solar Investment Tax Credit.

Many homeowners also choose inset installations because of the overall look. It creates the appearance that the home was designed with solar power in mind, creating a low-profile style that is often used on new home designs when solar energy is predetermined. Additionally, you get to keep the extra tiles that are removed from your roof for the composite shingle installation and can use them on future projects or repairs.

As a homeowner, you might discover that some installers of conventional solar systems will proceed with installing solar panels on a tile roof without a comp-out. However, that doesn’t mean that you should proceed with this solar installation method. Remember, these solar panels will be on your home for many years to come. That’s why SunPower provides homeowners with a 25-year industry-leading warranty. Knowledge is key. Ensure that your roof integrity is preserved by taking an active role in your upcoming solar installation.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What are the Best Locations for Solar Energy?

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:30:13 GMT

When determining which places are the most accommodating for solar energy, your first thought may linger on where the sun shines most. And while that approach is certainly valid, there’s a lot more to consider than just the weather.

States like Arizona, Texas, California, Nevada and Florida are considered some of the sunniest places in the nation. And the major cities within them also happen to have a large amount of solar PV installed. Many homeowners in these areas have learned that solar panels are a great asset when it comes to cutting rising utility bills. They also aren’t strangers to extreme weather conditions like wildfires and even freezing temperatures.

Solar power can provide reliable clean energy during times like these when it’s needed most. As homeowners produce their own power it helps create a more resilient electrical grid, especially when the demand for power is high. These factors alone can make alternative energy sources attractive, but what else makes a certain location solar friendly?

Shining Cities is an annual report conducted by the Environment America Research & Policy Center. The study looks at the total amount of solar power installed per person in America’s largest cities. The top nine named shining cities of 2022 were found to have more solar power than the entire United States just 10 years ago. This alone illustrates the rapid growth of solar adoption and the positive trend doesn’t look to be slowing down.

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) found that solar power accounted for 46% of all new U.S. electricity-generating capacity in 2021. This is the third year in a row that solar power made up the largest share of new capacity. Part of this growth is due to effective solar policy, including the solar federal tax credit (ITC) that provides qualified homeowners who purchase solar with a tax credit on a percentage of the cost of their home solar system1.

Public policy plays an important role in determining which states will be more likely to adopt renewable energy. For example, California has been a leader in green building for many years. The implementation of the Title 24 energy code has made quite an impact on the rapid growth of rooftop solar.

In 2020, the Golden State’s Title 24 energy code began requiring that all new homes include solar panels. This includes multifamily units like condos, townhomes and duplexes that are three stories high or less. Initiatives like this are keeping California at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. In fact, it recently broke a significant record. On April 30, the state’s demand for electricity was 100% matched by renewable energy generation for the first time in history. Clean energy, with solar generating the majority of power, provided all the state’s energy needs for approximately fifteen minutes.

Some of the best locations for solar energy are areas where effective solar policy is active. That’s why SunPower has a policy and strategy team that works with local and national governments to keep solar affordable and accessible to homeowners everywhere. But it truly doesn’t matter where you choose to go solar. The ability to enjoy the benefits of clean energy is available to everyone from fostering better air quality to reducing utility costs.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What to Expect During Your SunPower Solar Installation

Tue, 17 May 2022 14:42:56 GMT

Homeowners looking to cash in on solar energy’s excellent benefits often are unsure of where to start or what to expect. The solar discovery journey may seem daunting at first, but with the longest-standing solar company by your side, you’ll receive proper guidance every step of the way.

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to dip your toe into the process of going solar is by testing out the SunPower Design Studio. Start by entering your address and within seconds you’ll get a rendering of your home to visualize how many solar panels you’ll need to serve your unique energy needs.

Once you’re done trying your hand at solar design, you can set up an in-person or virtual appointment to get a detailed custom quote. SunPower’s growing team is filled with professionals that have the experience and training to tailor your home’s solar system for maximum efficiency.

To kick things off, a SunPower energy consultant or certified dealer will want to know about two main things. The first is the size of your home – specifically, the square footage and how much space there is for putting solar panels on the roof or elsewhere on the property. The second factor is your home’s energy usage.

Naturally, a SunPower energy consultant will want to find out about your current electricity usage. But they’ll also take time to examine your future plans. For instance, are you expecting children? Do you work from home? Looking to install a pool? Or are you planning to buy an electric vehicle? These additions could greatly affect your utility bill and should be considered during the design phase. Consultants will also look over local trends and regulations that affect energy use.

SunPower dealers can usually produce a custom quote fairly quickly. If you were to accept this quote and move forward, you would be scheduled for a site survey so that dealers could get a closer look at your home. This visit enables them to identify any structural challenges like plumbing vents, chimneys and skylights.

The length of the installation process can vary from location to location, depending on building codes, permitting rules and homeowners associations. Separate permits may be required during the design, installation and completion phases. In some cases, homeowners can get a SunPower system installed a couple of weeks after contacting the dealer. In others, several weeks or even months may pass before it’s all finalized. Keep in mind that the bigger the project, the longer this may take.

Fortunately, your SunPower dealer will provide you with a project manager that knows how to guide the solar project through the permitting and building process as seamlessly as possible. The project manager will mediate most contact with the utility while managing the construction and keeping you updated about its progress. They will also work closely with an interconnection coordinator who will handle the technical end of matching the solar system with the utility company’s gear.

Your SunPower solar system can become a great asset for your home and can even help increase its value. Solar power greatly reduces – or even eliminates – electricity costs for homeowners and can even help them to benefit from net energy metering. Your investment will also be backed by SunPower’s industry-leading Complete Confidence Warranty.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How Many Solar Panels Do You Need to Charge Your Electric Car?

Thu, 12 May 2022 18:10:04 GMT

Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining in popularity, with nearly every major manufacturer now offering an EV model. Sales of EVs nearly doubled in 2021. EVs are a great way to save on fuel costs and slash carbon emissions, too. But to gain the biggest benefit from switching to an EV, you need to consider how you’ll power it. EVs powered by solar energy have the sweet advantage of literally “running on sunshine.” But how many solar panels do you need to power your EV for the long haul?

Home vs. Public Charging

First, let’s look at the way EVs are charged today. You have two basic options: charging your EV at home or charging it at a public (or commercial) charging station.

About 80% of EV drivers today charge their vehicles from home. And while EVs are great for reducing your fuel needs, charging them increases demand on the electrical grid – no matter what kind of charger you’re using. If the grid running electricity into your home is powered by fossil fuels, your EV will essentially run on the same kind of energy you were trying to get away from in the first place.

If you have a rooftop solar system, however, you can run your EV on 100% clean energy.

Then there’s the fact that having an EV charger at home is much more convenient. Charging your vehicle overnight is much easier than spending part of your day hunting down a public charging station.

How much energy does your EV need to fully charge?

Let’s look at the numbers.

Although it differs some by state, on average, people drive about 14,000 miles per year, according to the Federal Highway Administration. The average EV can go about 3 miles per kilowatt-hour. So, to power your car all year you’ll need about 4,666 kWh of additional energy (14,000/3 = 4,666).

How many solar panels are needed to offset this additional demand?

Again, a bit of math.

Typically, every kW of solar installed on your roof produces roughly 4 kWh/day, or about 1,500 kWh/year. (This energy production will fluctuate depending on weather conditions, location and seasons, of course.) So to produce 4,666 kWh of energy you’d need an additional 3.1 kW system, or eight to 12 panels, depending on their power output, to run the average EV purely on solar energy.

If you already have solar on your home, should you add more?

Like all big decisions in life, that depends. If your current solar system is not covering all of your electrical use, it may be worth it to add 3 or more kW on your rooftop as your consumption will increase with EV use. If your solar system is already covering your energy needs, or even over-producing, you could also add a home battery to use some of your solar energy to charge your car at night.

SunPower’s SunVault™ Storage System can be programmed to kick in during times of demand (like when your electric car is charging) to serve your loads from stored solar energy rather than the grid. But most home batteries are smaller than an EV battery, so chances are your energy storage system will be maxed out charging the EV.

If you want to be able to rely on energy storage for power outages, adding some additional solar panels to your solar system may be the answer. Fortunately, SunPower® offers the most efficient solar panels on the market today,* making it easy to put a lot of power on your roof even with a limited amount of space. Whether you decide to add more solar panels or not, SunPower solar systems can help you cut utility costs by generating clean energy during the day. With solar power on your side, your electricity bill should be lower when compared to what you would have to pay without the supplement of solar power.

If you’re buying an EV and you don’t have solar yet, should you go solar first?

Of course, we’re partial to a clean energy approach when it comes to whole home energy. If you’re going to charge your EV at home, your electric bill will increase and solar power can help keep your electricity costs under control. The SunPower Equinox® solar system is a highly efficient, streamlined system that enables you to easily determine the best number of solar panels needed to cover all your energy needs. Plus, SunPower’s world-class network of dealers will be there to help you every step of the way. And don’t forget that you can easily add a SunVault storage system down the road as your needs grow.

Transportation is often called “the last mile” of the decarbonization challenge. Powering your EV with solar energy is an excellent option if you want to do your part for the planet – while saving money on electricity too.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Are Critter Guards Really Necessary? Four Solar Installation Enhancements You Should Consider

Thu, 05 May 2022 13:51:05 GMT

When it comes to installing a new solar system, most homeowners simply think about only buying the actual solar panels. There are multiple pieces of equipment that come along with your solar installation but did you know that additional product enhancements exist to further optimize your investment? Your solar provider may offer various add-ons like critter guards or even edge skirts. But do these add value? Or just add to the cost?

We’ll review some of the most common solar enhancements to determine what can help you tap into the full benefits of your home solar system.

Critter Guards

SunPower® solar panels are mounted on your home’s rooftop in a way that leaves a small space underneath each panel. This enables any debris that collects from weather such as rain and snow to roll off the roof. However, in some occurrences this space can become an attractive shelter for small animals.

For areas heavily populated with birds, netting is available to prevent them from building nests underneath your solar panels. Critter guards can also protect your solar system’s wires from being chewed or damaged by small rodents such as squirrels or rats. These guards consist of strips of metal screening that are secured to the outside of your solar panels. The edging creates a barrier that prevents small animals from gathering in places you don’t want them to. In some locations, homeowners don’t experience any major disturbances from animals looking for a safe haven. But if this is an issue you think you could experience, it’s always a good idea to talk to your local SunPower dealer about options.

Edge Skirts

SunPower solar panels are known for their curb appeal. That sleek appearance goes beyond the solar array when front edge skirts are part of the installation. Front edge skirts obscure mounting hardware and seamlessly blend into your roof. While edge skirts aren’t a necessity, they are perfect for the homeowner that is looking for a complete finish.

EV Chargers

Having an EV charger at home is incredibly convenient for electric vehicle owners. For one thing, there’s no need for EV drivers to search for a public charging. Secondly, an electric vehicle typically takes from one to a few hours to charge each day for a local commute. That’s time that can be well spent if the EV is charging in a place that accommodates the owner’s lifestyle.

Approximately 40% of electric vehicle owners also own a solar system. Not only is this a sustainable choice, it’s an economic one as well. Electric vehicles require a large amount of power to charge. Solar energy can help make up the deficit by providing clean energy to homeowners without them experiencing a surge in their utility bill.

Later this year, SunPower will offer homeowners in select regions the opportunity to install a Wallbox EV charger during their solar installation. This gives homeowners access to premium, eco-friendly products with the ease of one seamless installation experience. Homeowners can sign up to be notified when Wallbox will be available in their area.

Solar Batteries

Solar batteries are rising in popularity as homeowners arm themselves against power outages. According to SunPower’s Energy Sense Index, two out of five homeowners worry about power outages every month of the year.

SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system has the capability to ease blackout anxiety. Based on system size and design, SunVault can be used as a reliable backup energy source that powers the whole home. Homeowners no longer need to sacrifice comfort when unexpected outages occur. With SunVault, they can power up necessary appliances like refrigeration and HVAC while also charging their electric vehicle or completing a load of laundry.1

But solar batteries provide more than just peace of mind, they can also help homeowners save on their utility bills. Depending on how homeowners prefer to use their storage system, SunVault can also jump into action during peak demand times when utility rates are often higher. This can shave those additional charges to help reduce costs. Because of this, highly intelligent solar storage systems like SunVault are a great investment for homeowners with a SunPower solar system.

The right solar system enhancements can help homeowners save money, prevent common issues from arising and raise home aesthetics. Better yet, many of these options are affordable and easy to integrate. For further details, reach out to a SunPower dealer.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Earth Day is Not Enough but It’s a Start

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 17:31:47 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Earth Day was established in 1970 to raise awareness about pollution and drive environmental regulations. It’s served an important purpose, offering a moment in time for people to celebrate, reflect and do their part to green the earth. But to reverse the impacts of climate change, sustainable practices must be embedded in our lives every single day of the year. Earth Day is simply not enough.

Whether we’d like to admit it or not, the evidence of climate change is easy to find. It seems in recent years that it has made itself more apparent from record-breaking heat in the north to increased wildfire disasters on the west coast and above-average tornadic activity this spring in the south. At first glance, it may seem like restoring the planet is a hopeless cause but there is a bright side and it comes directly from the sun.

Last month, the UN climate report made one thing very clear – we must act now to limit the damage that harmful greenhouse gas emissions have already caused. But perhaps the most encouraging takeaway is this, change is possible if we all play our role.

The report laid out a blueprint of what must be done to slow the effects of climate change and it starts with rapidly accelerating the use of renewable energy and cutting fossil fuels. Effective solar policy can help bring these initiatives to light by making solar energy more accessible to all Americans.

The U.S. Congress is currently considering a large budget package that includes a long-term extension of the federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar and storage solutions. The solar ITC helps reduce upfront costs for homeowners who opt-in for solar power. Currently, the ITC provides homeowners with a tax credit of 26% of the total cost of their solar system1. But starting in 2023, this credit will decrease to 22% before completely phasing out in 2024. In response, SunPower’s policy and strategy team has been working with members of Congress to encourage an ITC extension of 30% for the next 10 years. This alone could make a sizable impact in increasing solar adoption.

Beyond solar policy, SunPower is working on additional ways to make solar power more affordable. In late March, we announced that a strategic alliance with solar manufacturer First Solar Inc. was in the works. First Solar would produce solar panels that would produce a thin-film solar technology along with crystalline silicon to capture even more sunlight. SunPower’s solar panels already have a reputation for their high efficiency. These new solar panels would continue that legacy, helping homeowners greatly reduce their utility bills. Homeowners can also take advantage of SunPower’s affordable financing options to buy or own their highly efficient solar panels if needed.

We are on the precipice of an energy transition and it’s up to all of us to tip the scales. Over the course of three decades, SunPower has offered a way for homeowners to do their part with the world’s best solar. But we can’t stop there. We are focused on making it easier for more people to adopt renewable energy and making deeper commitments to ensure our business practices are as green as our product. There is so much we can do, but let’s start by changing the way our world is powered. Every day.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Four Things You Need to Know about the SunVault Solar Storage System

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 15:18:38 GMT

Homeowners are facing an increasing number of power outages across the United States. Devastating wildfires in California, winter storms in Texas and an unprecedented Pacific Northwest heat wave all left millions without power over the past year, causing many homeowners to seek out backup power alternatives like clean energy solar + storage solutions.

Homeowners that use traditional electricity experienced over eight hours of power interruptions in 2020, more than double the amount in 2013, according to a recent review of federal data by The Wall Street Journal. These events are expected to increase as the effects of climate change put added stress on an aging grid infrastructure.

Powering through Outages

The once-in-a-season storm outage is to be expected, but a growing number of consumers are starting to worry more about the ongoing reliability of their power, according to the most recent SunPower Energy Sense Index.1 This unease is causing many to investigate solar energy and storage as a way to keep the lights on and the refrigerator humming during outages.

As with any innovation, there is much to learn about how solar storage works. So we thought we’d present some frequently asked questions about battery backup systems and SunVault™ Storage, SunPower’s residential solar storage solution.

How does the SunVault battery work?

SunVault charges from your SunPower Equinox® solar system, creating a “perpetual” energy backup system. As your Equinox system produces energy, it sends the electricity you're not using to SunVault Storage and/or sells it back to the electrical grid for a credit on future electric bills.2

With the mySunPower mobile app, you can select how much of the battery you want to use daily for savings and how much to reserve for an outage via different modes of operation:

Self-supply mode maximizes your use of solar power and minimizes the amount you consume from the grid during the day. This setting is the most environmentally friendly, because it first supplies your home with clean energy; then with stored solar energy from SunVault; and finally—only if additional energy is necessary—by pulling from the grid.

Reserve mode enables you to maintain your SunVault in a fully charged state in anticipation of a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) or expected storm. In Reserve mode you can reserve 97 to 100% of your battery power. SunVault will use a small amount of energy each day to self-power and will recharge when solar energy is available.

Cost savings mode enables you to limit your use of electricity from the grid during peak times. Depending on the mode chosen and what your local utility allows, your SunVault will discharge from 5:00 p.m. through 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, until the level reaches the Reserve Charge level you defined in the app.3

How much energy does the SunVault system store?

SunVault systems range in capacity, from 13 kWh to 52 kWh. Depending on the capacity that you choose, your system can save up to 52 kWh of energy, with 48 kWh of maximum energy use.4 Expanded storage capacity enables you to back up more energy for emergency use, provide more electricity during an outage, or it can provide more backup power for everyday needs.

Can SunVault save money during peak demand times?

Utility rates are typically lower during the daytime hours, so by storing the energy and then discharging the solar battery in the evening, SunVault enables you to sell your energy back to the utility when the rates are higher. SunVault’s intelligent software monitors your production, home energy use and utility rates to determine which power source to use—maximizing the use of solar power and reducing peak-time charges, where utilities allow it.

How does SunVault know when to go into backup operation?

SunVault is designed to seamlessly transition from utility grid power to backup power when the utility grid falters. This seamless transition can occur as quickly as the blink of an eye. The utility grid is a very dynamic environment where conditions change by the millisecond. SunVault was designed with this in mind and intuitively changes modes based on grid conditions and utility requirements.

Making the Most of Solar Power

Being a self-reliant energy consumer is an exciting prospect. Adding SunVault Storage to your solar system is the perfect way to make the most of the solar energy you produce. And if you haven’t gone solar yet, it’s the perfect time to design a clean-powered system for all your energy needs.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Do I Need a New Roof to Go Solar?

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 17:36:03 GMT

Do I need a New Roof to Go Solar?

(And Other Pressing Questions to Ask Your Solar Installer)

When you install solar panels on your home, you’ll save money and help eliminate harmful carbon emissions from your local environment. It’s easy to get excited about the prospect. But before you add solar panels to your roof, what questions should you ask to make sure solar energy makes sense for your home and your situation?

Do I need a new roof to go solar?

Solar panels should be installed on a roof that is in good condition . Assessing your roof condition is an important step in determining your home’s viability for solar power. Depending on the age of your roof, you may want to consider replacing or repairing your roof before adding solar panels. The good news is that nearly every type of roof (asphalt, shingled, clay tile) can accommodate solar panels. A professional solar installer will address your roof viability early on in the process.

Do we need to rewire our home to get solar power?

In most cases, you will not have to do extensive rewiring for solar power. You do, however, need to make sure you have adequate space in your electrical service panel to accommodate the solar input, and your SunPower solar installer will determine this during your home visit.

Is my home facing the right way for solar energy?

Historically, homes facing south were considered optimal for solar panels because they harnessed the most energy from the sun. But advancements in solar technology enable high-performance solar panels like SunPower’s to harness plenty of clean energy from a roof that’s not optimally oriented to the sun—even on cloudy days . And since some utilities pay more for solar energy sent to the grid during times of peak demand such as late in the day, western or southwestern-facing roofs that capture more of the setting sun can often generate solar energy that’s actually higher value to the homeowner.

Do I have to cut down trees to generate enough solar energy for my home?

Getting the most solar energy from your roof does sometimes mean trimming some trees to let the most sunlight in. But the good news is that advancements in solar technology have made extensive tree removal a thing of the past. For example, the AC solar panels in a SunPower Equinox system enable every panel to capture optimal sunlight, even in shade-prone areas. Your SunPower dealer will help you choose the right solar panel for your home.

Will solar power lower the value of my house?

No. In study after study, energy upgrades such as solar power have been shown to increase the value of a home. Specific factors will determine by how much – such as the home’s location, availability of performance-based solar incentives, and the age of the PV system. Contact a qualified SunPower dealer to learn more.

How much can we really save with solar power?

The big question on home solar is this: how much can you really save? This is determined by the available space on your roof, the amount of electricity you need, the solar panels you choose , and the value of solar power to your utility. Fortunately, solar installation prices have rapidly dropped over the last decade, and solar energy is now considered a great investment no matter where you live.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Why Does SunPower Have the Most Comprehensive Warranty in the Business?

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 15:17:25 GMT

A typical SunPower® solar installation generates low-cost, environmentally friendly power for 25 to 30 years or more, making the switch to solar power a long-term project. That means it’s vital to have a good warranty to protect your investment. SunPower’s Complete Confidence Warranty is considered the most comprehensive warranty in the solar industry, and it’s important to understand why.

Solar warranties come in three main types. It’s important to understand what each type typically covers so that you know what you are signing up for. Here’s a quick breakdown of how they work:

Solar panel product warranty: This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship. In the rare event that a solar panel suddenly stops working correctly, the product warranty will most likely cover it.

Solar panel power warranty: The power output of all solar panels diminishes or “degrades” over time. Knowing this degradation rate (which is stated in the warranty document) will give you a clear sense of the minimum amount of power you’ll be guaranteed for a designated amount of your panels’ lifespan. If a panel’s output is lower than promised, the manufacturer will replace, repair or reimburse you for the panel.1

Combined power and product warranty: These can be tricky because many solar companies cover their products and the power output for different time periods. SunPower’s comprehensive warranty covers your solar system and guarantees the highest DC power output in the solar industry.

Depending on which solar provider you choose, you could end up with several different warranties to sift through and that can get confusing. Most solar companies create rooftop systems using parts from different manufacturers. Not SunPower. Our highly trained dealer network and Master Dealers use parts and engineering all created by or for SunPower, so there’s no doubt that the warranty covers the hardware on your roof and the workmanship that put it there.

Be aware of the product warranties provided to you. Many only cover the solar panels. But there’s more to your solar system than just the solar panels. The SunPower Complete Confidence Warranty covers your entire system. Everything on the roof – including panels, microinverters and racking – is covered for 25 years. As for the rest– such as monitoring hardware and storage – it is covered for 10 years. The reason being that much of this equipment is still evolving and may require updates to ensure it performs at its maximum potential.

But the parts of a solar system are only as good as the power they produce, which is why SunPower’s warranty gives you peace of mind about that as well. SunPower’s solar panel degradation rate is the lowest in the industry.2 We guarantee that your panels won’t lose more than 8 percent of their original direct current power output over 25 years. Conventional panels, meanwhile, typically lose at least 17 percent during the same period of time. That means a high-efficiency SunPower system can crank out more energy over the decades its powering your home.

SunPower solar panels are so durable because they’re built with a unique solid copper foundation that can withstand weathering and corrosion better than conventional panels. SunPower panels are made with ultra-pure silicon to make anti-reflective glass that allows the light that enters to bounce back into the panel and harvest as much power as possible. So SunPower panels generate more power than any other solar panels, even on cloudy days, while looking terrific on your roof.

Your SunPower installer becomes a partner who can smooth the transition from traditional grid energy to solar. As long as SunPower panels power your home, your dealer will be able to provide a hassle-free replacement, repair or reimbursement for any defective panel or part covered by your warranty. If your system’s not performing up to standard, a certified installation contractor can help fix the issue.

SunPower is the only solar company that’s been in business longer than our 25-year panel warranty, so we have the experience needed to help people save money on electricity bills while reducing their carbon footprint. Once the switch is made, our best-in-class warranty will protect you for the long haul.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Maximize Your Solar Savings with the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:56:27 GMT

Solar power is a famously great investment and the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) can make it irresistible. But the time to redeem ITC at its maximum value is running out, so homeowners should take advantage of it while they can.

The ITC provides homeowners with a tax credit on a percentage of the cost of their solar system1 . This makes solar’s clean-energy approach much more economical.

Throughout 2022, the ITC for residential properties will remain equal to 26 percent of the amount invested in an eligible solar property, as long as the construction begins before 2023.

But homeowners need to move fast if they want to save money with the ITC. Starting in 2023, the tax credit will “step down” to 22 percent. In 2024, it will completely phase out for homeowners.

The ITC helps homeowners because it’s a dollar-for-dollar tax credit that can be applied to the income taxes you owe. For example, if you purchase your solar system for $20,000, you could receive a tax credit of $5,200. And if you don’t have a high enough tax bill to claim the entire credit in one year, you may be able to roll over the remaining amount to future years – as long as the tax credit is still in effect.

Solar customers can use the ITC to offset expenses for their solar panels. It also covers labor costs and developer fees. Solar storage units like SunVault apply as well, as long as they’re charged only by solar panels associated with the storage system.

Keep in mind that the type of solar system financing you choose matters when claiming the ITC. This credit generally applies only to those who purchase their solar system. Homeowners who lease solar equipment or use a solar power purchase agreement usually cannot benefit from the ITC.

The ITC has been a huge driver of solar growth in the U.S -- expanding 10,000% since the tax credit was first enacted in 2006. SunPower has worked hard to keep the ITC in place and helped secure an extension of it by Congress in 2020. Even when the ITC steps down for residential customers completely in 2024, many similar state and local solar incentives will remain.

The ITC and state and local programs will save you money, and choosing SunPower for your installation can lock in savings for the long haul by putting the solar industry’s efficient solar panels on your roof2 . SunPower’s residential solar panels produce 55% more energy over 25 years than conventional panels and save more on your electricity bills, too3.

SunPower solar panels also are rated No. 1 in third-party durability testing4 , which means they can withstand the nastiest of weather conditions and still power your home day in, day out. That is just one reason why SunPower’s Complete Confidence Warranty is considered the best in the solar industry.

Our highly trained dealer network and Master Dealers will be glad to fill you in on the many ways SunPower can help you save money on energy bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

The Top 3 Things to Look for in Solar Panels

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 17:59:22 GMT

The Top 3 Things to Look for in Solar Panels

It’s no secret, there are a lot of solar panels on the market. Many promise different results from lower prices to better aesthetics. But what factors should you weigh when evaluating which solar provider to choose? It all comes down to these 3 things – efficiency, durability and warranty.

Efficiency

SunPower® solar panels are widely known to be the most efficient on the market*. That’s because SunPower solar cells are unobstructed by metal gridlines across the top, unlike most conventional solar cells. That means that there is plenty of open space for each solar cell’s unique light-trapping surface to absorb more than just visible light rays such as ultraviolet and infrared light.

SunPower also uses intra-digitated back contact technology, meaning all of the wires that carry the electricity from each cell in the solar panel are placed onto the back. This eliminates shading and helps SunPower solar panels generate more energy, even when the weather isn’t ideal. SunPower’s technology and strategic design give its solar panels the ability to harvest more sunlight than conventional solar panels.

Durability

In addition to their design for efficiency, SunPower solar panels were also created with durability in mind. SunPower solar cells have a strong copper backing that is resistant to corrosion and weathering. This is incredibly important because solar panels sit on rooftops and are subject to harsh temperature and weather changes. Exposure to the elements causes all solar panels to degrade over time. But the rate of degradation can vary heavily from one solar panel provider to another. For a conventional solar panel, this reduction of power output happens at an average rate of 0.5% each year. But a SunPower solar panel degrades much more slowly at only 0.25% each year. That’s a big difference and illustrates just how durable SunPower solar panels are.

Warranty

Not all warranties are created equal. To find the real value behind a warranty, homeowners should look past just the years a solar system is covered. Some solar companies have warranties that only cover the materials but not the loss of power production. Or, they source parts from different manufacturers, leaving you with multiple warranties to sort through. SunPower offers the most comprehensive warranty in the industry, with coverage spanning both power and product. In addition, SunPower is the only company that stands behind the entire solar system, not just the panels. In the rare likelihood that something does go wrong, you only need to contact one company to fix the issue – SunPower.

But SunPower doesn’t just stop at the product. We also guarantee that your panels won’t lose more than 8% of their original DC power output in 25 years. When compared to conventional solar providers that only guarantee 19%, there’s a clear winner.

When deciding which solar panels are right for your home, do yourself a favor and evaluate which option delivers the most overall value. Chances are, you’ll land on SunPower as the obvious choice.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Why Should You Get a SunPower Custom Quote?

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 16:03:17 GMT

More than 380,000 homeowners have already turned to SunPower solar solutions. For the many others looking to adopt this renewable energy source, there’s often a very natural question that surfaces: How much does going solar cost?

Some solar providers try to make speed look convenient by quickly throwing out a one-size-fits-all price quote for solar systems without first assessing the home. While these prices tend to be very attractive at first sight, homeowners will quickly discover that this method of pricing isn’t convenient at all because simply listing a base price leaves out vital details homeowners need to make a decision.

The way around this is to get a fast – and genuinely convenient – SunPower custom quote . Homeowners have two options. The first option is through the SunPower Design Studio . In only seconds, homeowners can enter their address and get a rendering of their home to see how many solar panels are recommended. This will give them a general idea of how much energy their home can produce and how solar power could benefit them. The second option is to get in contact with the nearest member of SunPower’s approved dealer network – a partner with the expertise to tailor your home’s PV solar system for maximum efficiency.

During the quote process, a SunPower dealer will be looking at two factors. The first is the size of the house – specifically, the square footage and how much space there is for putting state-of-the-art SunPower panels on the roof or elsewhere on the property. SunPower’s highly efficient solar panels are great for small rooftops because they can generate more energy in less space. However, with more panels comes more power potential and some homes require a more robust system. The dealer will conduct a site survey that will also identify any structural challenges to take note of and factor into the planning phase.

The other factor is the house’s energy usage. Naturally, the dealer will want to find out about current usage and can do this by looking over past utility bills. They’ll also take a hard look at the homeowner’s future plans. For instance, homeowners with a growing family, those who work from home or those who want to add a pool or an electric vehicle will see their energy use grow significantly over time. These factors should be considered when planning a solar system’s size. That way, utility bills don’t creep up during change of life events.

Future energy use also can be affected by influences that aren’t obvious. For instance, the U.S. is seeing a shift towards electrification as more and more appliances are powered by electricity over natural gas sources. These appliances do demand a certain amount of energy while in use and should be considered when planning for a solar system.

With a trusted SunPower custom quote in hand, homeowners can move toward their clean energy future with confidence. SunPower dealers will discuss options for paying for the solar system, These include purchasing or financing your system. Each option can have a different impact on a system’s price, maintenance and return on investment so it’s important to keep in mind when running the numbers.

It’s important to note that a good choice for one homeowner may not be the best for someone else. That’s why SunPower dealers are a great resource for homeowners to sort through options to determine what’s best for their home.

Investing in solar power is a long-term commitment that can help your pocketbook and the environment . SunPower’s commitment to quality means we’ll never shoehorn some standard set of panels onto your rooftop when what you need is a custom fit. Let an experienced SunPower dealer help you get this crucial decision just right.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How to Prepare Your Solar System for Winter Weather

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:08:35 GMT

Whether you live in a warmer climate where cold weather is touch and go, or you are used to freezing temperatures all season long, you may wonder what you need to do to prep your solar system for the winter. The good news is that a SunPower solar system is low maintenance. However, there are still things you’ll probably want to know. Here are some common subjects that homeowners often have questions about.

Do solar panels produce less energy during winter months?

The simple answer is that if it’s sunny outside, you’re good to go. Summer isn’t the only season to reap benefits from your solar system. SunPower solar panels perform well in colder weather and can even generate clean energy on cloudy days . We’re known for having the most efficient panels on the market, which means that SunPower panels can generate more energy in less space. To put numbers behind it, SunPower solar panels generate 55% more energy than conventional solar panels in the same space.

Should you remove snow from your solar panels?

There are many resources out there telling homeowners how to maintain their solar system. In fact, we even wrote a blog on how to clean your solar panels. But when it comes to snow, removing it from your solar panels isn’t usually necessary. In most locations, it will melt off after a reasonable amount of time. Plus, the risk of removing snow is often greater than the reward of the increased production.

There are exceptions, however. With cases of very heavy snow where there’s a tendency for it to stay on panels for a month or more, there can be a benefit of hiring a company to come out and remove that snow. Never try to do your own snow removal in these instances – especially if mounted on a roof.

Can SunPower solar panels handle extreme winter weather?

SunPower panels are extremely durable and the reason comes down to their design. A solar panel is made up of solar cells. SunPower’s solar cells are unlike any other. For one thing, they are backed with a strong copper foundation. Most conventional solar cells feature metal tracking across the front which can be easily susceptible to the stresses of temperature change . As these thin, conventional solar cells expand and contract, they weaken.

SunPower’s patented solar cell design gives it flexibility and strength under the same circumstances. SunPower solar panels have the lowest degradation rate on the market. Degradation rate is the reduction of power output for a solar panel over time. We’re so confident about our degradation rate that we guarantee that our solar panels won’t lose more than 8% of their original DC power output within our 25-year warranty timeframe. Those conventional solar panels we were talking about earlier lose about 17% power output during the same amount of time.

What are some ways to make a home winter ready?

It’s no secret that daylight hours are shorter in the winter. However, it shouldn’t be too much of an issue for your solar system if you are actively trying to conserve energy. To ensure your energy consumption isn’t surpassing your energy production, you should look for ways that you can make your home more efficient , including the following:

Weatherproofing your home by stopping drafts with doorstoppers, weatherstripping windows and insulating electrical outlets are fairly inexpensive ways to keep out unwanted cold weather.
Add more insulation if needed. This reduces the amount of energy needed to heat your home.
Replace windows and doors with versions that are more efficient.
Install a smart thermostat to help you maintain ideal temperatures when you are home, and more importantly, when you’re away.

In summary, there’s really nothing you need to do to prepare your solar system for winter weather, especially if you have SunPower’s reliable solar panels. However, it doesn’t hurt to keep an eye on your production and consumption with the mySunPower app to help you maintain a low utility bill. So, enjoy your warm and cozy home knowing it’s heated with better, cleaner energy.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Why Your Home Builder Chose SunPower

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 18:17:14 GMT

Why Your Home Builder Chose SunPower

California residents are familiar with solar inclusion when it comes to shopping for new homes. That’s because in 2020, the Title 24 energy code began requiring that all of the state’s new homes include a solar system. While this ambitious energy code hasn’t caught on in other sustainably-minded states just yet, new home communities are prioritizing solar energy more than ever before.

Toll Brothers is one of the latest companies to offer homebuyers SunPower’s better, cleaner energy solutions. When the agreement between the two companies was announced late last year, Toll Brothers stated that it was looking forward to providing its communities with access to renewable and reliable energy options. And, while that’s a big draw for various home construction companies across the nation, here are a few other reasons why home builders choose SunPower.

Seamless Integration

There’s no doubt about it, the home buying process can be both exciting and overwhelming, which is why that final signature on the dotted line is a notable victory. And since the last thing you want in the home buying process is yet another task, integrating solar power into your new, eco-friendly home should be anything but cumbersome.

SunPower’s mySunPower™ digital platform provides home buyers with a self-guided consultation that can be initiated when it’s convenient. Whether it’s at 2:00 pm or 2:00 am, you’ll have all the resources needed to learn about solar power and what options fit your new home and lifestyle best. You can also explore what financing options make the most sense for your family. With mySunPower, the path to going solar is quick and easy. We do the work so that you and your home builder don’t have to.

Once you’ve moved into your lovely new home, you’ll be happy to know that the mySunPower app also tracks how much power you are producing and consuming.

World-Class Solutions and Service

SunPower has a track record unlike any other solar company in the U.S. We’ve been around for over three decades, refining our solar + storage solutions and crafting a superior customer service culture. And while we can easily boast the world’s best solar, the truth is that we’re always raising our own bar to be even better at what we do.

Homeowners with SunPower® solar systems know they have the most durable solar panels available sitting right on top of their roofs.1 Backed by a strong copper foundation, SunPower solar cells are built to stand up to stress and not crack under pressure like the solar cells of other solar companies. Much like its solar panels, SunPower’s warranty stands out from the rest. We’re widely known for having the most comprehensive warranty in the industry because we cover your entire solar system, not just the solar panels.

Whole Home Energy Solutions

While solar panels are a major player in SunPower’s business model, we also provide additional products and services for homeowners that want to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Our SunVault™ storage system gives you backup power when you need it most. Whether you’re wanting to regularly save money from peak demand charges or need reassurance during a power outage, the SunVault storage system features a top-of-the-line solar battery that can easily take on the task.2

Woodside Homes, one of the top 30 homebuilders in the U.S., began offering its homeowners complete energy independence with SunVault storage last summer, and they aren’t the only ones. The New Home Company is ensuring that all of the homes in their California Granite Bay community will include solar + storage along with a Wallbox EV charger.

In addition to making solar storage more accessible for homeowners, new home communities are seeing a need to accommodate the increasing number of EV drivers as well. A study from Clean Technica found that nearly 40% of electric vehicle owners also have a home solar system. So, it makes perfect sense that a solar-powered home would include EV chargers to support this growing trend. Last year, SunPower teamed up with Wallbox to better accommodate sustainably-minded consumers, installing EV chargers in select locations along with a home solar system.

SunPower has worked closely with home builders for years providing expertise, resources and premium solutions to simplify the clean energy transition. It’s why companies like KB Home have chosen to work with us for over a decade. We’re looking forward to sharing our solutions with even more home builders so that new home buyers will have access to the most efficient solar panels on the market.3 In fact, home building companies can catch us at the International Builder Show in Orlando, Florida starting February 8 to see our solar, storage and EV charger solutions up close.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What Factors into the Cost of a Solar System?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 15:51:30 GMT

There’s no doubt about it, the home solar market is growing at a rapid rate. With the increased risk of power outages due to extreme weather and high demand, more and more homeowners are looking to take control of their electricity. But for many, the burning question seems to be how much will energy independence cost them?

Believe it or not, there are quite a few factors that contribute to the price tag of solar power. Probably the most obvious expense is the hardware. Several components make up a solar system. The solar panel alone features solar cells, inverters and mounting hardware. Then there are wires, conduits, racking – you get the picture. SunPower pairs world-class technology with high quality solutions that output more power than a conventional solar system. In fact, a SunPower® solar system produces up to 55% more solar energy over 25 years than other popular solar products in the same space1.

Simply put, our products are different by design. When you choose a SunPower solar system, you are getting the most durable2 and efficient3 solar panels on the market. SunPower solar cells have a strong copper foundation in the back, while an unobstructed light-trapping surface sits on top to soak in pure sunlight. This winning combination prevents corrosion while creating more surface area for clean energy generation.

Solar panels are often priced based on factors such as their size and wattage. Both size and wattage have a lot to do with how efficient a solar panel is. More wattage means higher efficiency. SunPower’s claim to fame is its high-efficiency solar panels. A SunPower solar installation requires fewer solar panels in less space than conventional solar. This can be very useful for homes with minimal roof space, but it also equates to a faster installation due to fewer materials needed.

Which brings us to our next cost to factor in -- installation. Solar installers are trained and educated in a very specialized trade. It takes an entire team of these knowledgeable professionals to complete a solar installation. Part of the cost of a solar installation goes into paying these people for their hard work and expertise. And with a top-notch network of dealers , working with a SunPower installer is worth the investment.

If you are considering making the switch to solar power, a SunPower dealer can help you design and price out a solar system that works for your energy needs. Often a well-planned system can lead to savings on your utility bill. SunPower dealers can also lead you towards local incentives that may further cut down the cost. Find a dealer near you to get started.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Energy Sense Data Spotlight: Unpacking Solar Adoption, Habits and Attitudes by Generation

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 19:12:15 GMT

Between new bills in Congress and the recent United Nations conference, climate change is dominating the news cycle. Our planet is at risk but there are ways to take action to help make a difference. Using solar energy can reduce your home’s reliance on fossil fuels, but today only four percent of American households do so.

SunPower recently conducted a survey of American homeowners to understand the face of the home solar user and what motivates them to choose solar power. We learned how blackouts and rising electricity bills are driving purchase of solar power and energy storage, alongside a growing interest from the Midwest as the next most promising area for the adoption of solar energy. In response, SunPower recently announced the acquisition of Blue Raven Solar to better serve America’s heartland.

But the data also uncovered some interesting trends about different generations and their approaches to climate change:

How do different generations perceive solar power?

Which generation thinks they’re the most environmentally conscious?

Are Millennials more likely to recycle than Baby Boomers?

SunPower explored the data in our Energy Sense Index (ESI)* to look at answers from Gen Z to Boomers and everyone in between. By understanding each generation’s beliefs and preferences when it comes to environmental actions, we can work together to help reduce our carbon footprint and minimize the impacts of climate change. We’ve got the data — and some of it isn’t what you’d expect.

SunPower Energy Sense Index

Millennials and Gen Z worry the most about the environment...

The survey asked respondents how often they worry about their household’s impact on the environment. The answers paint a pretty clear picture: Millennials and Gen Zers (those born in the early 1980s or later) are concerned about their environmental footprint, with 73% worrying about their impact a few times per month or more.

On the other hand, Baby Boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) aren’t as concerned, with 65% answering that they think about it less than once a month or never. Gen Xers (born between 1965-1976) and bridging the gap between Baby Boomers and Millennials, fall in the middle, with 56% worrying a few times per month or more, and 37% worrying less than once a month or never.

But Baby Boomers are more likely to take action.

Given the varying levels of concern, you’d think that the younger generation is taking far more action than Gen Xers and Baby Boomers to help the environment. Yet, the data was surprising: 83% of Baby Boomers recycle, 61% use reusable bags for shopping, and 26% compost — a higher percentage than any other generation for these actions.

Meanwhile, Millennials and Gen Zers have the highest percentages of those who donate to environmental organizations (40%), eat plant-based diets (31%) own electric vehicles (24%).

Surprisingly, it was the Gen Xers who had the highest percentage of those likely to take no steps at all (10%).

Though Boomers underestimate how much they’re helping...

Perception isn’t always reality. When asked whether they think they’re more or less environmentally conscious than their neighbors: 79% of Millennials and Gen Zers said they were somewhat more or much more environmentally conscious. Meanwhile, 57% of Gen Xers and just 37% of Baby Boomers think they’re more environmentally conscious than their neighbors. Based on their recycling habits, Baby Boomers might be selling themselves short.

Gen Z and millennials lead the way on solar energy.

Having a home solar system with storage can help you reduce your overall carbon footprint — for example, the average solar home in Connecticutoffers the same reduction in emissions as planting 150 trees per year! Gen Z and Millennials lead the charge on solar homes: 70% of respondents who currently have solar panels on their home are millennials or Gen Zers. By comparison, 18% of panel owners were members of Generation X, while only 12% were Baby Boomers. However, 52% of Baby Boomers answered that they would consider getting solar — a promising sign for the future.

Want to learn more about the state of solar power among American homeowners? Check out the full Energy Sense Index and be on the lookout for future deep dives into the survey’s findings.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Treat Yourself This Holiday Season with a SunPower® Solar + Storage System

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 16:38:17 GMT

The holidays are an exciting time, but they also usher in the extreme weather of the winter months. Even states with relatively mild climates can face unexpectedly brutal winter storms, like Texas experienced last February. Winter Storm Uri abruptly shut down most of the state's power grid for a week, prompting a devasting series of rolling blackouts.

Outages and blackouts are on homeowners' minds. SunPower recently conducted a nationwide survey of 1,500 homeowners and found that people in 2 of every 5 households worry about power outages on a monthly basis. Of those considering solar, 70% said they plan to include a battery energy storage system.

Those homeowners naturally find solar storage solutions like SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system very attractive. Many people don't realize it, but most solar-powered homes are tied to the grid and are affected by blackouts, just like other homes. The difference is that solar homes can use a solar battery to keep the lights on and necessary appliances running when other homes grind to a halt. Solar-powered homes also help reduce strain on the grid during extreme weather events such as heatwaves.

Reliable solar power brings peace of mind, but it also brings savings. Electricity rates are rising across the U.S. and generating clean, free energy on your own roof helps reduce your need for expensive grid power and can and lower your electricity bills. With SunPower® panels – the most efficient on the market1 – you can generate more power and greater savings. A SunPower solar system’s monthly payment may be lower than your electric bill today. You could pay as little as $79 per month for a SunPower solar system and then recoup the upfront cost with savings in as little as 10 years.2

While SunVault is handy in a blackout, it can also add to the day-to-day savings homeowners see with a SunPower system. That's because a SunVault™ system allows you to store solar energy during the day and use it at night. In addition, excess energy that is generated beyond what you use or store in your solar battery can, in many regions of the U.S., help you offset your electric bill through net metering.3

Exploring the advantages of solar + storage by scheduling a free online consultation will be one of the most stress-free things you do this holiday season. SunPower’s Design Studio makes it easy for homeowners to lay out their own system, showing them how many solar panels will fit and the best places for them to go.

Homeowners also need long-term assurance that their investment in solar will weather storms and the usual wear and tear of time. SunPower does that. Our Complete Confidence Warranty is considered the best in the solar industry. Part of the reason is that SunPower systems are designed and warranted by one company, so there's no confusion about who will take care of you going forward. And as the only company with 36+ years of dedicated solar experience, SunPower has proven it takes care of its customers.

Homeowners can gift themselves with the confidence to handle anything Mother Nature sends their way and save money this holiday season when they purchase a SunPower Equinox® solar system with SunVault™ storage by Dec. 31, 2021. Qualifying purchases can get a $1,500 VISA Reward Card Rebate, while those who opt for a SunPower Equinox® solar system alone can get a $1,000 VISA Reward Card Rebate.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How to Get HOA Approval on Your Solar Installation

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 18:15:30 GMT

How to Get HOA Approval on Your Solar Installation

So, you want to start producing your own power from a renewable energy source like the sun but you’re worried about one thing – your homeowner owner’s association (HOA). It’s a fair concern considering that solar power hasn’t always been associated with curb appeal . And then there’s the fact that a solar installation can be equated to a small construction project. Luckily, with SunPower by your side, many of the common issues associated with HOAs will be a walk in the park. Let us explain.

SunPower has been a leader in the solar industry for over 36 years and that proven track record not only builds credibility , it comes with decades of experience working with HOAs just like yours. We have a system in place that can make the entire process run smoother. Part of that process includes our team working with your HOA directly to keep things running on schedule. Typically, this communication will occur after a site survey is conducted at your home and SunPower begins the permitting process with your local utility provider.

For starters, we’ll need the contact information of your HOA. This will allow SunPower to reach out and obtain any applications that are needed on your behalf for approval. You can expect these forms to be completed by the SunPower team, and we’ll even submit the approval forms on your behalf if the HOA allows it. During this time, we’ll work closely with the HOA to ensure everything is properly communicated and their requirements are met.

As part of the application process, your HOA may require a few different things. Be prepared to provide them with the following items to prevent any delays:

Application fees
Deposits
Photos of your home

Once the application has been submitted, we’ll ask you to alert us when you’ve been officially approved. This information is typically not sent to SunPower. The period of time for approval from your HOA can vary. Please keep in mind that it can sometimes push back SunPower’s project completion timelines depending on how long the approval takes. After that, you’re all set! You can expect installation to begin shortly after .

Beyond the excellent customer service that SunPower provides throughout the application process, there’s another reason why many homeowners choose us as their solar provider. SunPower is different by design. Our solar panels look a lot different from conventional solar panels. The sleek, low profile of a SunPower® solar array is purposeful from the placement of our microinverters, down to each solar cell . One thing many homeowners notice right off the bat is how SunPower solar panels are unobstructed with metal gridlines. Instead, SunPower solar cells have a smooth, light-trapping surface backed by a durable copper setting. The results are not only a cleaner appearance but highly efficient solar panels that can produce more power in less roof space.

In addition, SunPower solar systems harbor microinverters under each solar panel. This one of the many factors that make SunPower unique. Some solar companies are known to connect piecemeal solar components to a central inverter which can create a bulky appearance. The placement of the microinverters also helps with efficiency. When a solar system is connected to a central inverter, generation is dependent on the production of the entire solar array. When there are microinverters for each individual solar panel like in a SunPower solar system, the game changes. This allows each panel to be responsible for its own production, meaning if temporary shading or other variables occur, a SunPower system can rely on the other solar panels in a solar array to pick up the slack. In other words, SunPower solar systems are not only built better, they look better too . That’s why HOAs often recommend SunPower solar systems to their local communities.

It may seem intimidating, at first, to bring the request for solar power up with your HOA but SunPower can take the hard work out of the equation. We’re happy to guide you throughout the entire process and answer any questions that you may have along the way. At SunPower, we strive to provide superior service throughout the installation process and that includes all the odds and ends that come along with it.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Using Volvo’s Electric Vehicles to Reduce the Carbon Footprint of the Solar Supply Chain

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 16:16:40 GMT

It’s a fact. Everything has a carbon footprint. Even renewable energy solutions like solar panels that have a green head start have some carbon output as they travel to a customer’s home or business. At SunPower, we pride ourselves on clean energy solutions that reduce carbon over time, but to truly exercise environmental stewardship, we must consider the full journey of our products.

Transportation is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. and the nation’s economy is heavily dependent on it. In fact, heavy-duty trucks make up only 5% of vehicles on the road yet account for more than 25% of overall U.S. transportation emissions. That’s a big slice of pie.

But there’s good news ahead. Commercial load electric vehicles are emerging as a cleaner, cost-effective alternative to diesel trucks. At SunPower, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when you marry solar and electric vehicles from reducing dependence on fossil fuels, to generating savings. There’s no doubt that the two are a winning combination. It’s why we announced our alliance with Wallbox in July and now we’re bringing Volvo’s electric trucks into the mix.

Volvo recently announced at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo how we are working together to decarbonize our supply chain by leveraging Volvo’s battery 8 trucks to deliver high-efficiency solar panels. Not to mention, the facility where the trucks are charged has solar installed, creating a full green circle! The Volvo VNR Electrics will be dispatched by Kuehne & Nagel International AG, a global transport and logistics company and SunPower’s longstanding third-party logistics company. We are excited to be one of the first solar companies to leverage an electric fleet of heavy-duty trucks to fulfill our transit needs and lead the renewable industry in the sustainable freight movement.

When looking for the right partner to electrify our supply chain, SunPower wanted to team up with a company that shared our values of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Volvo Trucks not only understands the important need to reduce carbon emissions within the transportation industry, they have put actionable goals directly in the driver’s seat with environmentally responsible solutions. SunPower aims to do the same.

Now, when delivering our solar + storage solutions across North America, you can be confident we are further reducing our carbon footprint by:

Leveraging an electric commercial fleet enroute to deliver your solar energy solutions to distribution facilities with a goal of replacing carbon-based vehicles with electric in the near future.

Reducing mileage by exploring new distribution centers and cutting travel time.

Packing trucks more densely to ship more product with less mileage through Dependable Highway Express (DHE) and other carriers.

Using trains to help transport goods. Trains have significantly less carbon emissions than other traditional forms of shipment.

SunPower has a long history of focus on sustainability when it comes to the lifecycle of its solar panels, including the recycling process. Removing the carbon debt of solar power not only amplifies the value of our technology, it helps people like you feel better about committing to alternative energy sources. And more importantly, it’s how SunPower is changing the way our world is powered.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Accelerating Solar Can’t Wait

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:43:43 GMT

Accelerating Solar Can’t Wait

In the past year SunPower has taken several important steps to grow our business and create great experiences for our customers, from spinning off our manufacturing arm to enhancing SunVault energy storage to introducing new services like EV charging. These thoughtful actions were taken because now, more than ever, we need to change the way our world is powered.

With that spirit in mind, I’m delighted to announce our latest evolution: today we announced that SunPower acquired Blue Raven Solar, a rapidly growing residential solar company that’s been quickly expanding its presence across the U.S. since it was founded in 2014.

There’s a lot of reasons why the acquisition of Blue Raven makes sense, but I’ll start with this: more than 100 million homes in the United States could reduce their electricity bills by switching to solar, yet less than four percent of homes have solar on their roofs today. In that gap is an enormous opportunity to increase the use of renewable energy that can help families save money, provide resilience against increasing grid failures and help decrease the impacts of climate change. These are things that can’t wait.

Acquiring Blue Raven enables us to expand our footprint to meet this need quickly. The complementary geographic reach of our businesses is undeniable: Blue Raven does 95% of its business in 14 states where SunPower currently has 5% of its volume. We also have a lot to gain from combining the best of our go-to-market strategies, both direct and digital. Together we have the opportunity to create powerful tools that can enable us to quickly bring industry-leading products into underserved markets.

What’s even more impressive is what we have in common. Like SunPower, Blue Raven is dedicated to providing superior customer service — that’s evident in the company’s aggregate 4.6/5 review score. They've also paid great attention to creating a top-notch culture, an effort that recently landed Blue Raven on Glassdoor’s 2021 Best Places to Work list. And at the end of the day, both of our organizations care deeply about making a difference in the world with better, cleaner energy.

We are lucky to have the opportunity to build upon a business that is thriving and are thrilled to incorporate Blue Raven’s motivated teams and award-winning culture into our organization. I'm looking forward to seeing all the ways we can grow together.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What’s the Best Direction for Solar Panels to Face?

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 18:43:19 GMT

In the past, there was only one answer to the question, “What’s the best direction for solar panels to be pointed?” In the Northern Hemisphere, that direction was south. Because the sun shines directly over the equator most of the time, south-facing solar panels have an opportunity to collect more sunlight and generate more solar energy .

Every house has a different orientation to the sun, so every solar installation presents its own opportunities and challenges. The trick is to install the solar panels in a way that not only collects the most sunlight but collects it in a way that strategically helps the homeowner save on their electricity bills.

South-facing solar panels have another advantage for homes that have access to net metering , which allows homeowners to get reimbursed for power they send back to the electrical grid. South-facing solar panel orientation collects the most energy around mid-day when there’s lots of sun. But that’s also when the home’s consumption is typically lowest because everyone’s off to work, school, etc. That means there’s lots of solar-generated power left to go back to the utility.

But not all homes have a southern orientation, and – as all SunPower dealers know – even if they did there are plenty of other variables that can affect which direction solar panels should face.

Your SunPower dealer will first survey your home for obstacles – like trees, chimneys, power lines or taller buildings – that could block sunlight from reaching your SunPower® solar panels. A home facing a less-than-optimal direction or sun-blocking obstacles can still produce plenty of solar power , but it may take more solar panels than a roof with a great orientation and no obstacles at all.

SunPower dealers also are up to date on local rules and regulations that can have a big impact on solar panel direction. These regulations might affect a homeowner’s ability to take advantage of net metering, among other things. For instance, California added a wrinkle to its net metering plan in 2017 called “time of use” (TOU) rates , and that change directly affects solar panel placement.

Before TOU rates , homeowners got reimbursed the same rate for any power they sent back to the grid, whether it was generated at 10 a.m. or 4 p.m. But utilities face their biggest demand for power from customers from about 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. each evening, and they turned to TOU rates to help them cope with that.

TOU rates mean the 10 a.m. power sent back to the grid – which occurs at an off-peak time – is worth less to the homeowner than the peak-time 4 p.m. power. Since solar customers facing TOU rates make more money off evening power, their panels may need to be pointed west or southwest – not to the south – to catch more of the setting sunlight.

SunPower dealers also know that solar panel efficiency makes an enormous difference in planning an optimum solar installation. SunPower’s Maxeon® solar cell technology uses a one-of-a-kind design that captures a broad range of sunlight. Using more efficient panels means fewer panels are needed, and SunPower’s high-efficiency panels produce 55% more energy over 25 years than conventional panels within the same space.*

Placing solar panels around all the obstructions on a roof can be complex, but SunPower’s Design Studio makes it simple. Our software allows the homeowner to be involved in their own design, understanding how many panels will fit and the best places for them to go. That design can be enhanced by SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system , which allows homeowners to save excess power and prepare for emergencies.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Why Degradation Rate is Important When Choosing Solar Panels

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 18:27:29 GMT

When deciding which solar panels are right for your home, there’s more to consider than just pricing. Sure, a low-cost option might seem attractive at first glance but will your investment be worth its weight 10, 20 or even 30 years down the line?

Degradation rate is the reduction of power output for a solar panel over time. Most solar products currently on the market degrade at an average rate of 0.5% each year . And when it comes to solar technology, losing a percentage can have an increasing impact on your maximum potential savings. That’s why assessing solar panel degradation rates before you sign the dotted line is crucial.

All solar panel systems degrade over time, but some lose their production capacity much more slowly than others. ( Even solar panels in space degrade .) Various factors can affect a solar array’s degradation rate including climate, temperature and the materials that ultimately make up a solar panel’s durability. To ensure your solar system will perform at the highest level possible, opting for a premium solar solution that can handle the stress is a must.

SunPower® solar panels are designed for durability and we can prove it. That’s why we offer the most comprehensive system warranty in the solar industry. As the longest-standing solar company in the U.S., SunPower is the only provider that has outlasted its industry-leading warranty. SunPower has the lowest degradation rate in the industry*. In fact, we guarantee that your panels won’t lose more than 8% of their original DC power output within our 25-year warranty timeframe. Compare that to a loss of 17% power output for conventional solar solutions. In other words, a SunPower solar system can output more power during its lifetime.

SunPower solar panels feature solar cells that stand apart from what conventional solar companies provide. Conventional solar cells are often covered with metal gridlines that are pasted on the front of the cell. As your roof heats up during the day, the metal expands and then contracts under cooler conditions. That constant expansion and contraction can cause a solar cell to become weak and lose production. However, SunPower® Maxeon® solar cells are backed with a unique copper foundation that adds durability and strength to withstand weathering and corrosion. The front of the cell is unobstructed and features a light-trapping surface that is the perfect environment for power generation, making a SunPower solar system highly efficient . Altogether, this design creates a solar panel that can perform like no other.

The reliability and efficiency of a SunPower solar system have made it the preferred choice for home and business owners alike. When it comes down to choosing the right set of solar panels for your rooftop, make the clear choice that will outperform the rest – SunPower.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Four Ways You Save More with SunPower

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 19:39:25 GMT

What do you really save with solar energy? Solar companies talk about savings all the time, but that’s only part of the story. True, you can save money each month by switching to solar energy. But you can save more money—and a little more of everything—by going solar with SunPower.

Throughout the rest of 2021 we’ll be highlighting the many ways homeowners and businesses save more with SunPower. We can’t list them all in this post, but here are four of our favorites.

1. Save more money

Electricity rates are rising in many cities across the U.S. and utility companies charge more—they call it “peak time” rates—when they know you need it most. Generating your own clean energy is an excellent way to reduce your reliance on grid electricity and lower your electric bills with the free energy of the sun. And, if you get the most efficient panels on the market1, you can generate more power and savings in the same space.

In fact, the total monthly cost of your SunPower® solar system may be less than your monthly electric bill today. You could pay as little as $79 per month2 for a SunPower® solar system, and recoup the upfront cost with savings in as little as 10-15 years.3

2. Save your sanity

Let’s face it—power outages are simply part of our world these days. Adding SunVault™ storage to your solar solution helps you store your own energy on site and stay ready for the next outage. And unlike like some fossil-fuel generators, SunVault storage automatically detects grid interruptions and begins powering your home with clean, solar energy the moment you need it.4

Plus, with superior battery chemistry and twice the power of other solar storage systems on the market, you can run more of your home in an outage and still get more charge and discharge cycles out of your battery.

3. Save fossil fuels

If the recent surge of wildfires, winter storms and record-breaking temperatures have proven anything the past few years, it’s that the world needs cleaner energy. Yet only a small percentage of U.S. homes and businesses currently have solar.

Going solar helps reduce your dependency on fossil fuels like natural gas and coal. Choosing a company with a long-standing history of dedicated sustainability leadership, means saving more of those precious fossil fuels, and doing more to lower your own carbon footprint.

In other words, help save the world while saving money at the same time.

4. Save time

Adding solar to your home or business is a big investment. And, like most products, the quality of solar solutions on the market varies drastically from one solar company to the next. But going solar doesn’t have to be complicated.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Why Going Electric Pays Off in Ways Big and Small

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 16:31:17 GMT

The concept of electrification is nothing new. The movement has grown from its humble beginnings in 1752 with a kite and key, through the monumental Rural Electrification Act in 1936 to what we now know in modern times. But as the electric grid has evolved, so have the thoughts of industry leaders on its environmental impact.

Beneficial electrification refers to replacing systems that still use gas and oil with carbon-free alternatives. This includes replacing traditional HVAC systems with heat pumps, using solar + storage solutions to power your home and opting to drive an electric vehicle. While these green technologies are equipped to sustain a cleaner electric grid, there’s still plenty of work to do when it comes to their adoption. To truly make an impact on the fight against climate change, consumer adoption is key and electrification is the clear path forward.

Solar energy is an incredibly important part of the sustainable electrification movement and yet less than 3% of households use it. Luckily, it has also become increasingly affordable. A recent report from EnergySage states that costs are down 6.3% since July of 2020. The downward trend of solar system prices has encouraged many homeowners to make the switch. Incentives like the extension of the ITC are also helping drive consumer demand.

Solar panels not only help reduce the amount of carbon emissions from fossil fuels, they also help support the electrical grid. When homeowners produce their own power during peak times, they can play a role in reducing strain on the grid. This is especially true when solar power is paired with a storage solution like SunVault™ storage. With SunVault storage, homeowners who have SunPower® solar can choose how to use the excess power produced by their solar panels, by selling it back to the utility company (in areas where net metering is available), activating power from their battery during peak demand times, or powering up essential appliances during a blackout.*

SunPower recently conducted a nationwide survey of 1,500 homeowners and found that homeowners in 2 of every 5 households worry about power outages on a monthly basis. Of those considering solar, 70% said they plan to include a battery energy storage system. More homeowners are discovering the benefits that come with solar + storage solutions. That’s why states like California have integrated solar into new home energy codes. The California Energy Commission recently approved a mandate for developers to install 240-volt outlets in all new homes, to support electric-vehicle chargers and solar batteries. Proposals to the Title 24 energy code from the CEC are also encouraging home builders to use electric-powered heat pumps in new single-family homes.

With initiatives towards electrification and the help of local policymakers, a more sustainable future can be achieved quickly and affordably. Especially since many of these modern appliances are more energy-efficient. But even if you don’t have plans to buy a new home, you can easily achieve electrification by replacing appliances with eco-friendly versions as they phase out. For example, if your HVAC system will soon be out of date, consider choosing a heat pump to take its place.

We rely on so many different forms of technology in our day-to-day lives. From charging up our mobile phones to the convenience of running the dishwasher, we are constantly consuming energy. The demand for electricity isn’t going to decrease. That’s why it’s important to be aware of where our energy comes from and how clean it is. The more we work together to offset carbon emissions, the better off we will all be.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

SunPower’s Solar + Storage Solutions are Helping the Transportation Industry During the Pandemic

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 14:27:35 GMT

Solar power has steadily evolved, breaking its own records and positioning itself as the most affordable form of renewable energy in the nation. The industry’s growth has led to a stronger workforce to further improve the technology and develop solutions that are helping business owners cut overhead costs. Because of this, more and more businesses are turning to solar and combined solar + storage solutions to deliver renewable energy and reduce operating costs. In fact, this clean energy combo has become a popular solution for the transportation industry to save meaningful dollars during COVID-19 setbacks.

According to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, 2019 was a record-breaking year for their airport system. Altogether, their airports served 140.5 million passengers, a 1.6% growth over the previous year. Then the global pandemic of 2020 hit, sending the transportation industry into crisis mode. People stayed home and bustling hubs like John F. Kennedy International Airport experienced a 98% drop in domestic passenger volume.

Airports weren’t the only sectors reporting significant losses. The transportation industry as a whole began proposing budget cuts and slimming operations in response to safety and health precautions. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) considered closing 19 of its stations absent additional federal relief funding. The transportation industry needed results that would provide them with long-term savings, something solar energy has a strong reputation for.

Last year, SunPower worked with four notable transit industry leaders looking to not only adapt but thrive through the help of solar power. These projects are all positioned to help rebuild their respective communities and transportation infrastructure for a stronger and greener future.

John F. Kennedy International Airport

The transportation industry has been a champion for community solar, and JFK International Airport is no different. SunPower is set to install what will be New York State’s largest onsite solar + storage system in partnership between the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the New York Power Authority. Goldman Sachs Asset Management L.P.’s Renewable Power Group is also a crucial stakeholder in the project and will be involved in long-term ownership and operation of the project’s more than 12.3 megawatts of solar and 7.5 MW / 25 MWh of energy storage. The project will also offer the airport’s surrounding environmental justice communities an opportunity to lower their electric bills through the state’s community distributed generation program.

Delaware River Port Authority and PATCO

The DRPA and PATCO SunPower project will be one of the largest transportation-related renewable energy initiatives in New Jersey. The 22-megawatt solar system consisting of more than 50,000 solar panels is expected to produce electricity equivalent to more than 50% of the total electricity consumption of DRPA and PATCO. High-efficiency solar carports will be spread out across 7 PATCO locations and at the DRPA’s headquarters. Altogether, the project has been projected to save approximately $12 million in electricity costs over the next 20 years.

WMATA

In the Washington, DC region, four of Metro’s sites will turn into hubs for solar power, featuring SunPower solar carports with up to 12.8 MW of energy capacity. It is another transit-led project that is giving back to the community. As the largest community solar project in the national capital area, the project is expected to generate enough electricity to power at least 1,500 single-family homes.

In exchange for hosting these solar arrays on its property, WMATA will receive lease payments for 25 years during the solar projects’ operation from project companies Goldman Sachs Renewable Power LLC is in the process of acquiring. The power will be provided to the energy grid and clean energy delivered to homes and businesses throughout the region. This project is a “quadruple win” providing revenue for the transit agency, covered parking for its riders, clean energy delivered to community solar subscribers and reduced carbon emissions and air pollutants in our environment.

GILLIG

The leading manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses will host one of the largest rooftop solar power systems in the Bay Area. GILLIG’s headquarters and assembly plant will feature a three-megawatt 7,800 solar panel system paired with solar battery storage. Energy from the system will support the company’s sustainability efforts by directly powering transit bus manufacturing and charging their fleet of zero-emission battery-electric buses. The company has also installed 30 employee electric vehicle charging stations. GILLIG’s efforts to adopt clean energy and pass it on through their product offerings is just the kind of domino effect needed in the transit sector.

To join the growing list of Fortune 500 companies that are turning to SunPower for their solar + storage needs, contact us by filling out our convenient online form located at the bottom of the page.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Home solar demand plunges as Illinoisans can’t tap incentives amid standoff on energy bill

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 15:05:12 GMT

Unless legislators can send a fix to Gov. J.B. Pritzker this month, solar installations in Illinois will likely drop even more as companies lay off workers.

The number of home solar panel installations in Illinois has plummeted as state consumer incentives dried up amid a standoff in Springfield that’s seen lawmakers unable to agree on major energy legislation.

After a state incentive program ran out of money late last year, just 313 small rooftop solar projects were completed statewide in the three-month period ending June 30, compared with 2,908 a year earlier, Illinois Power Agency records show. Those numbers account for most of the rooftop solar projects done in Illinois.

The state program helped reduce the cost of adding solar to a home by thousands of dollars.

The funding problems also have idled hundreds of workers, hurting a fledgling, once fast-growing industry.

Unless legislators can send a fix to Gov. J.B. Pritzker by the end of the month, solar business owners warn things could get much worse.

“The story here is whether those Illinois legislators are going to choose the future or, frankly, choose the past,” says Josh Lutton, president of Certasun, a Buffalo Grove solar panel installer.

The number of Certasun’s solar installations this year is half what it was last year at this time, according to Lutton, who has furloughed dozens of workers as a result.

Lawmakers agreed months ago on details of expanded state funding for solar power. But that plan is part of a broader energy bill that’s been held up by disagreements over state aid for three Exelon nuclear power plants and a proposed phasing out of coal and natural gas.

This post originally appeared in Chicago Sun Times

Finding the Right Warranty for Your Commercial Solar Installation

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 16:25:44 GMT

Because commercial solar panels are a significant and long-term investment, business leaders who take the leap will want to know that their investment is covered. Enter a solar panel warranty.

Solar warranties mitigate the risk of faulty equipment, breakage and/or underperformance that might occur. Luckily, problems with solar panels are statistically rare, particularly when you choose solar equipment from proven solar providers like SunPower. However, it doesn’t hurt to have documented assurances on your side to help you understand the long-term financial impact of solar ownership and help gain stakeholders’ buy-in for a proposed solar project.

When researching commercial solar options, you’ll likely encounter a wide variety of warranties with different types of coverage and term lengths, plus a lot of fine print that might make it unclear on what’s covered and what’s not. In addition, depending on the company, warranty definitions can vary greatly.

For example, did you know that there’s a difference between solar panel product warranties and power warranties? Although the options can get confusing, it’s important to understand the differences when you’re deciding between solar companies.

Here’s a closer look at the different types of assurances that might come with your organization’s solar system.

Solar panel product warranty: This type of warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship. If a solar panel suddenly stops working after a few months because of a flaw in a solder joint, for example, your product warranty will most likely cover it.
Solar panel power warranty: Over time, the power output of all solar panels diminishes or “degrades.” Knowing this degradation rate (which is stated in the warranty document) will give you a clear sense of the minimum amount of power you’ll be guaranteed for the first 5, 10 and 25 years of your panels’ life. Then, if a panel’s output is lower than promised, the manufacturer will replace, repair or reimburse you for the panel—depending on the warranty terms.

Comprehensive third-party studies have shown SunPower panels degrade more slowly than conventional solar options.1 In fact, we guarantee that our panels won’t lose more than 8% of their original power output in a 25-year timeframe when compared to 19% for conventional solar.

Combined power and product warranty: Many solar manufacturers offer power and product warranties that provide coverage for different amounts of time. Others offer both warranties for the same timeframe. Note that for many solar providers, only their product warranty covers failure due to product defects or workmanship—and their power warranty doesn’t mention defects at all. So be sure to do a side-by-side solar panel warranty comparison, paying close attention to how the power and product sections are worded.

For example, you might think a panel’s power warranty covers any situation where its performance or output has been compromised. But be sure to take a closer look. Most panel manufacturers focus solely on their power warranty, because it often appears to guarantee a working panel for an even greater length of time than their product However, many of these power warranties are not supported by their accompanying product warranties. Case in point: If a panel is not producing the amount of power expected, but the reason is because of a product flaw, the manufacturer may refuse to cover the problem under its power warranty. If the product warranty doesn’t cover it either, or it has run out, you’re out of luck.

SunPower offers the solar industry's strongest panel power warranty 2. We cover 100% of repair or replacement costs, when many conventional solar warranties don’t.3 That means labor, shipping, parts are all covered for 25 years.4

As you can see, there are good reasons why a lot of confusion exists around commercial solar panel power and product warranties. But now that you know the differences between the various types of assurances and what to expect, you’ll be able to more effectively compare and contrast your options. As always, it’s a good idea to work with a solar energy consultant for an additional helping hand in this area. They can help you understand the complexities of the warranties up for question. Plus, they can assist you in comparing and contrasting how different warranty terms could impact your organization financially, both in the short and long term.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How Does Solar + Storage Help with Rolling Blackouts?

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 19:38:33 GMT

Texas produces more electricity than any other state, so Texans were stunned last February when Winter Storm Uri suddenly shut down most of the state’s power grid. Texas’ power producers had not adequately weatherized natural gas plants, wind turbines and other energy-production sites to withstand the bitterly cold temperatures. Many of them stopped working, requiring rolling blackouts in some areas and leaving others without power for days.

But Texas’ “big freeze” was just the latest widespread blackout to hit the United States. Wildfires, hurricanes, heatwaves and high winds have also caused rolling blackouts, or as many California residents and PG&E customers know them, “public safety power shutoffs.” For instance, California’s 2020 wildfires left as many as 10 million people in the dark at times, and the state’s enduring drought means similar fires will likely return this year.

These and other extreme weather events are making solar storage options like SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system more attractive to homeowners. Many people believe homes powered by photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are independent of the grid and not affected by blackouts. In some cases, that’s true, but most solar homes and businesses tend to be “grid-tied,” which means they’re partners with the local utility. Solar panels produce the home’s electricity during the day, and the utility provides electricity at night or on cloudy days.

This arrangement greatly reduces – or even eliminates – electricity costs for solar homeowners. But it also means solar homes can face blackouts. However, unlike other homes, solar homes can use a solar battery to keep the lights, fridge and other essential appliances running.1Also, solar-powered homes help reduce strain on the grid when extreme weather hits. In fact, that’s one reason why many states, including California, offer their own rebates and incentives on top of the federal solar tax credit (ITC).*

Non-solar homes frequently use generators to keep the power on during a blackout, but generators lose out to solar batteries on issues like cost, noise, size and environmental impact.

And unlike a generator, the SunVault system saves you money even when there’s nothing wrong with the grid. It allows you to store solar energy during the day and use it at night. Any energy that won’t fit in your solar battery can, in many areas, help you offset your electric bill through net metering.2The SunVault storage system is currently available only to customers with the SunPower Equinox® AC module technology, it will eventually be available for use with legacy SunPower systems as well.

SunPower’s SunVault storage system comes in two sleek, attractive boxes – the SunVault battery and the Hub+™. The larger box – the battery – is slightly smaller than a refrigerator and stores excess energy not used throughout the day The smaller box features intelligent software that lets you control when and how your stored solar energy is used.

The SunVault storage system helps reduce the risk of blackouts by easing the strain on the grid. But solar power also is a form of renewable energy that reduces the level of greenhouse gasses that cause climate change – which is believed to be responsible for much of the extreme weather we are currently experiencing. In fact, it would take planting about 2 billion more trees to store as much carbon dioxide as the emissions reduced by the entire U.S. solar industry.

Each home has different solar and storage needs. Qualified solar installers know how to design your Equinox solar and SunVault storage systems to give you the energy you need when you need it. We’ve created a strong dealer network with the expertise to tailor your home’s PV solar system for maximum efficiency. That network includes Master Dealers, a select group of installers who with close ties to their communities.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How Does Solar Storage Work?

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 19:35:38 GMT

Technological innovations constantly improve the service solar customers receive. And developments in solar storage -- like SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system -- are just the latest designed to make life easier for homeowners.

Storage helps complete a typical household solar system, which uses solar panels to collect energy from the sun and turn it into electrical energy. An inverter then turns that energy into the right kind of current to power a home.

Many people think that most solar-powered homes are independent of the electrical grid. But actually, the majority work in partnership with the local utility. When solar panels produce more energy than a home needs – like on a bright, sunny day – the excess electricity gets fed back to the utility. And when the panels produce less – like on dark overcast days – a solar home pulls in the electricity it needs from the utility.

This arrangement greatly reduces – or even eliminates – electricity costs for solar homeowners and may allow them to benefit from net metering (where available).1 But it also means solar homes can go dark in blackouts. These power shutoffs take place to ensure safety, protecting both the home’s electrical equipment and utility workers from unexpected bursts of electric current.

Storage helps offset a solar home’s reliance on the utility during the regular daily slowdowns in energy production as well as in emergency situations like blackouts. If your home’s panels produce more energy than you need on a normal day, the excess energy first charges the solar battery and then when that’s complete, goes to the utility. Later that day, when your panels stop producing energy until morning, you can draw on the stored energy from the battery to help supplement what you need from the utility.

In extraordinary situations like a blackout, your storage system can provide backup power to essential appliances and devices.2 SunPower’s SunVaultTM Storage system comes in two parts – the SunVault battery and the Hub+™. The Hub+ supplies intelligent software that gives homeowners the option to control when and how all that stored solar energy is used.

A SunPower Equinox® home solar system with SunVault™ Storage is the only home solar and storage system designed by one company, so it can be managed easily. Its intelligent software maximizes the use of solar power each day to help you avoid spending money on peak-time energy charges. In a blackout, it can be programmed to power select appliances – like your most important lights, outlets to charge your devices or a freezer full of food.

The Equinox system with SunVault Storage is also covered by a single warranty: The SunPower Complete Confidence Warranty. And SunPower has created a strong dealer network with the know-how and SunPower equipment to tailor each home's PV system for maximum efficiency. That network includes Master Dealers, a select group of installers with close ties to their communities.

For a limited time until July 31, 2021, homeowners can receive a rebate on SunPower’s solar + storage system. Pay cash for a qualified SunPower Equinox® solar system with SunVault™ Storage* and get a $750 rebate, finance your system with a SunPower loan and get a $1,250 rebate, or lease your system for a $1,500 rebate—all fulfilled with a VISA Reward Card.3 Start your journey towards energy independence by filling out this web form.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

New Law Will Preserve Homeowners’ Solar Rights

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 14:48:07 GMT

Gov. Pritzker’s signature provides needed protections against solar access restrictions.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (July 28, 2021) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation protecting Illinoisans’ right to clean energy and access to solar power. A revision to the Homeowners’ Energy Policy Statement Act, HB 644 will guarantee homeowners’ rights to place solar on their home without major redesign requirements, while improving the timeline for approval by a homeowners’ association (HOA).

“HB 644 is an important bill that will eliminate red tape for families and businesses that are helping our state make the transition to a clean energy future,” said Rep. Dan Didech (D- Buffalo Grove), the bill’s chief House sponsor. “The governor’s action this week brings us one step closer to a world where our state can take full advantage of the potential offered by solar energy technologies.”

This bill will enable greater deployment of customer-sited generation, like rooftop solar, by recognizing the right all Illinoisans have to generate and store their own clean electricity. Rooftop solar empowers people with the ability to generate their own power on their own property and store it in a battery for resilience even in the event of grid outages.

“Renewable energy is the future,” said Senator Adriane Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove), chief Senate sponsor. “We need to be breaking down barriers for homeowners to take advantage of clean energy and lower bills, and I am proud that the changes this bill enacts will help do just that.”

The solar industry has grown rapidly throughout Illinois, and customers are taking charge of their energy future, investing in rooftop solar to save on their energy bills and benefit from clean energy. That growth has created thousands of family-supporting jobs, and at the same time, offering savings to Illinois ratepayers.

“The Homeowners’ Energy Policy Statement Act is a big win for energy freedom in Illinois and opens the door for more Illinoisans to choose solar for their homes. This bill goes a long way in reducing unnecessary delays and restrictions by reiterating the right for every Illinoisan to go solar,” said John Delurey, senior midwest regional director at Vote Solar.

This bill has an immediate impact on homeowners like Jennifer Bassler, a resident of Belleville, Illinois, who was recently sued by her HOA after installing solar panels on her home.

Reacting to the news that Gov. Pritzker signed HB 644 into law, Jennifer Bassler said, “My family was thrilled to hear that HB 644 was signed by Gov. Pritzker yesterday. This bill ensures we will get to keep the solar panels on our home, and it opens the path to solar energy for so many others in our neighborhood who were previously unable to even consider it due to roof face limitations. However, our fight is not over, as we still believe we had the right to our solar energy system under the original law. We have endured seven months of litigation with our Homeowners Association over our solar energy system and hope that it will end with a positive resolution soon.”

Regulations have hindered the increased interest in solar power, but this new law ensures every resident can fairly and equitably benefit from Illinois’ clean energy future.

“The Illinois Solar Energy Association is pleased that Gov. Pritzker has signed HB644, further ensuring that consumers in the state will have the right to be solar powered,” said Lesley McCain of the Illinois Solar Energy Association. “We hope to increase opportunities for Illinois families to benefit from home solar, and urge Gov. Pritzker and legislative leaders to pass omnibus energy legislation passed as soon as possible.”

Each new local rooftop solar installation in Illinois can reduce energy bills for families and businesses while providing valuable job creation, cleaner air, and a more resilient electricity system. Additionally, reducing carbon emissions is critical to making progress on Gov. Pritzker’s climate goals.

“The benefits of this legislation go far beyond any single rooftop,” said Colleen Smith, deputy director of the Illinois Environmental Council. “We can make meaningful progress on carbon reduction and reaching our climate goals by getting everyone involved, and breaking down barriers to solar will lead to cleaner air, healthier residents and more vibrant local economies.”

This post originally appeared on IEC

Energy Independence and Freedom

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 18:22:12 GMT

Solar + Storage Provides Energy Independence and Freedom

Wildfire activity and public safety power shutoffs have become common occurrences in California and Oregon, hurricanes continue to ravage states along the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico, and then there’s the winter storm earlier this year that turned Texas on its head. If there’s anything the past few years have shown us, it’s that climate change is a growing concern. And it’s these extreme weather events that have challenged the way many are approaching their energy use.

Whether it’s being left in the dark during rolling blackouts or being extra cautious with energy consumption because the electrical grid is overwhelmed, more homeowners are considering how they can change their current relationship with utility companies. The great thing about solar energy is that it solves more than one problem in the equation above. First, the use of renewable energy sources like solar power help reduce the amount of harmful greenhouse gasses that come from the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels. With a solar installation, homeowners can power up during the day using electricity generated from the sun. This clean energy helps reduce the overall effects of fossil-fuel generated electricity and contributes to our fight against climate change.

Second, solar energy helps reduce a homeowner’s need to pull energy from the electrical grid. SunPower’s highly efficient solar panels allow homeowners to reap more benefits of owning a solar system. Our solar panels are uniquely designed and feature solar cells that have a broader light-trapping surface than conventional solar cells. And more sunlight, including ultraviolet and infrared rays, leads to more power. It’s this innovative approach that enables SunPower® solar panels to produce up to 55% more energy over a 25-year period than conventional panels within the same space.1 To help with many of the details that expand beyond solar panel efficiency, there’s the SunPower dealer network. Our specially trained dealers can advise homeowners on what solar system size will not only address their current energy needs but can handle any additional loads that might come up in the future, such as the addition of an electric vehicle or a pool. These combined efforts of technology plus industry knowledge can help homeowners become less grid reliant, many times enough to start seeing major savings on their utility bills.

With SunPower’s SunVault™ storage solution, homeowners have an opportunity to experience even greater energy independence. SunVault is made up of two major components – the solar battery and Hub+™. Using intelligent software, Hub+ gives homeowners the ability to use stored energy on their own terms. SunVault can be programmed to step in during peak demand times to help reduce higher electricity costs from the utility company or to power essential appliances when the power’s completely out.2 How it’s used is up to the homeowner and that’s a level of independence you just won’t find by solely relying on utility companies.

Solar + storage solutions are affordable and easy to finance with SunPower’s lease, loan and cash options. With solar power at the helm, homeowners have the freedom to take control of their energy and be better prepared when unexpected weather events occur.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How to Get More Value Out of Your Solar System

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 18:18:21 GMT

How to Get More Value Out of Your Solar System

While generating power from the sun is without cost, the technology behind this process is not. The reality is solar panels are an investment – much like a home – that has an upfront cost but pays off in the long term. The installation can be compared to a small construction project and each module contains multiple parts to make everything run smoothly. So, how does a homeowner ensure that taking a chance on clean energy solutions will be worthwhile?

There are four key areas for homeowners to evaluate when determining which solar provider will be the right fit for them. These factors can make or break the value of a solar system and determine how beneficial it will be for a homeowner.

1. Degradation

An investment is only good for the lifetime of the item being invested in. While homeowners should choose durable solar modules, there is one important factor that can be easily overlooked. Degradation is the rate at which a solar panel loses its production capabilities over time. Because solar panels sit on top of a homeowners’ roof, they are exposed to various types of weathering and temperature changes. These changes can cause the solar panels to expand and contract, adding stress to the cells inside. Conventional solar cells often crack and break under the pressure, leaving them to produce less energy over time. SunPower solar cells are made differently. Designed with a durable copper backing to prevent damage, SunPower’s solar cells are better positioned to withstand the factors that often cause conventional solar panels to degrade at a quicker rate. When it comes down to it, SunPower solar panels last longer, providing homeowners with decades of high-efficiency solar energy.

2. Warranty

Not all warranties are created equal. To truly protect your solar investment, you need to ensure your solar equipment is fully covered. Sure, some companies might have a decent-looking warranty at first glance but solar companies come and go. If a company goes out of business, the warranty will become void and that’s not helpful for anyone. To feel truly confident that your investment is covered, you should choose a company that stands the test of time. SunPower has been serving the solar industry for over 36 years and we’re here to stay.

It’s that experience that has led SunPower to work out ways to develop products that better serve our homeowners, including how we build our systems. In general, a solar system is comprised of many different working pieces. For many solar companies, that means things can get complicated. That is unless you own a SunPower solar system. SunPower solar equipment comes from one company. That means every single piece of a SunPower solar system is covered by the most comprehensive 25-year warranty in the solar industry. Homeowners don’t have to worry about going to various manufacturers to get their solar system fixed, they only need to rely on one company—SunPower.

3. ITC

The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is a great benefit to homeowners looking to adopt renewable energy. This advantage enables homeowners to receive a tax credit on a percentage of the total installed cost of their solar system. And the great news is that the ITC was extended early in 2021. Previously planned to zero out in 2022, this was expected to be the last year homeowners could receive this tax credit at a lower percentage of 22%. But the extension has bumped this tax credit back to 26% for the time being, with projections to drop back down to 22% in 2023. This recent increase positions 2021 as the perfect time to begin a solar installation because homeowners can take advantage of the full ITC amount.

4. Efficiency

When it comes to saving money, solar panel efficiency matters. SunPower has the most efficient panels on the market* and requires less rooftop space to meet a homeowner’s energy needs. In fact, SunPower solar panels produce 55% more energy over 25 years than conventional panels within the same space. This makes SunPower solar panels a great solution for compact roof sizes and allows space for further expansion.

Specifically designed with a unique light-trapping surface, SunPower solar panels can generate sunlight from ultraviolet and infrared rays. With the ability to trap all of this light, many homeowners have found that their solar systems have produced enough energy to shave serious dollars off of their utility bills.

The Bottom Line

When it comes down to it, the cost of a solar system is just one part of the equation. Homeowners that take the time to truly identify what makes a solar system valuable will reap the biggest benefits. And they don’t have to figure this out on their own. One thing that makes SunPower unique is its expansive network of dealers across the nation. These dealers are local experts that are specifically trained on the ins and outs of solar power and are actively engaged within their respective communities. They work directly with homeowners to design and install solar systems that will fully meet a home’s energy needs. SunPower dealers can ensure that you are taking full advantage out of your solar system. To find one near you, contact us!

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

What is a Renewable Energy Certificate?

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 16:36:34 GMT

A short animation with narration explaining what renewable energy certificates are and how they are used by individuals and organizations across North America to green their power.

Written and directed by Center for Resource Solutions, resource-solutions.org

Animated by Brian Stegall - bsteegs.com

Installing Commercial Solar

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 15:24:40 GMT

Installing Commercial Solar: What to Expect From Your Utility—and How Your Solar Company Can Help

If your organization decides to start using solar power, you’ll soon find yourself involved in two important business partnerships. The first will be with the solar company that designs and installs the photovoltaic (PV) solar system. And the second partnership will be with the local utility. Once your solar panels are connected to the grid, you’ll find a much more profitable relationship with the local utility company than you’ve ever had before.

Project Management

Your solar company knows the ins and outs of a solar system and they’ll know what the utilities are looking for during the installation process. Once the contract is signed, most of the day-to-day contact with the utility will be mediated by two people. The first will be the project manager, who will manage the construction of the solar project from start to finish. This project manager will work closely with the interconnection coordinator, who will handle the technical end of matching the solar system with the utility’s gear.

The Process

Utilities change from region to region. All of them have different rules about connecting solar panels to the grid. It’s the job of the project manager and interconnection coordinator to understand what those rules are and to make sure the project stays on track. The process will involve five major steps from beginning to end before the solar system is up and running.

Site Survey: The project will begin with a series of surveys that study everything from the utility’s underground cables to your own switchgear (e.g., the breakers and fuses that protect and isolate your equipment). The topography of the area and anything else that might affect solar production will also be taken into account. This will help answer questions about where the solar system should be sited.

Design: All this information will be used to create a “30 percent design.” (It’s called that because once it’s done, the design is about 30% complete.) This plan will consist mainly of two drawings—one is a single line drawing showing the electrical diagram, and the other is a site plan indicating where the solar array(s) will be placed. These will be submitted (as an “Interconnection Application”) to the utility with a request for permission to proceed with building.

Permits: While waiting on approval from the utility, the project manager will be working on completing the design and obtaining any other required permits. There can be building permits, city permits, state permits and more. This can be a time-consuming process depending on location and how complicated the solar design is. In some cases, the utility can dictate changes in the wiring, meter and other equipment to make sure everything’s compatible. If a project is especially large, it might require additional grid integration studies.

Construction: Once the utility gives its blessing and construction starts, the project manager takes the lead on nearly everything. It will be their job to avoid any bumps in the road while the panels and other hardware are delivered, installed and connected. Once that’s done, government inspectors (typically from the city or state) check over everything to make sure all of the requirements are met. The project manager will deal with the inspectors and handle any inevitable last-minute tweaks.

Operation: Following inspection, the project manager will request permission to operate (referred to as a “PTO”) from the utility. The utility will respond with a final check. With their sign-off, you'll be ready to flip the switch and start producing solar power. But that’s not the end of things, the project manager will still work with you for a few weeks to ensure that system monitoring is set up and everything is up to your standards.

The average solar installation process takes about 10 months to a year. A more complicated one can take longer. Once the project is completed, your relationship with the solar company will likely continue throughout the lifespan of your solar equipment. Meanwhile, your new relationship with the utility will be as a fellow generator of electricity. In most cases, you’ll be using net metering to help offset your energy costs. Regardless, your energy bills will be going down—and you’ll be doing something good for the planet.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Do Solar Panels Generate Enough Power on Cloudy Days?

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 15:21:09 GMT

It’s true, solar panels can produce less power on cloudy days – as you might expect – and yet photovoltaic (PV) solar energy use is extremely popular and an effective source of power in cities that get lots of inclement weather, like New York, San Francisco and Seattle.

Why?

Part of the answer is that clouds are not really the obstacle they appear to be. Many people think solar panels work best in sun-blasted regions with few or no clouds. That’s not quite true. Solar panels produce energy by converting sunlight to direct current (DC) and then an inverter turns that into alternating current (AC), which is the type of power most houses run on. Cloudy days create an estimated power drop-off of about 10 to 25 percent from what you see on a sunny day. But weather is fickle. Sometimes clouds can actually enhance the performance of solar panels at times by reflecting or magnifying sunlight.

More importantly, even conventional solar panels generate power with the sunlight filtering through a cloudy sky, and SunPower’s hyper-efficient panels really shine at those times. SunPower’s Maxeon® solar cell technology uses a one-of-a-kind design that captures a broader range of sunlight to provide record-breaking efficiency – the highest of any available panels on the market.*

SunPower also uses an ultra-pure type of silicon and a solid copper foundation that keeps its panels working efficiently even after prolonged exposure to wind, rain, snow and other severe weather. In field testing across eight years and 800,000 panels at 264 sites, SunPower® solar panels demonstrated the lowest degradation rates in the industry, almost four times stronger reliability than conventional panels. That’s why SunPower panels are backed by the industry-leading SunPower Complete Confidence Panel Warranty.

When the weather gets really wicked – like, knock-out-the-grid wicked – SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system can provide timely backup power for your home. But even when the grid’s humming along just fine, SunVault allows homeowners to store solar during the day and use it when needed.

Economic factors – not just weather patterns and SunPower technology – help explain why people in cloudy regions love solar power. The biggest driver of solar power’s popularity in any region is the cost of electricity, not the amount of sunlight that area sees. That’s why many of the biggest U.S. solar cities are famously un-sunny places. The same is true of solar countries. For instance, Germany and South Korea – countries with plenty of cold, wintry weather – are two of the biggest adopters of solar.

Qualified solar installers know how to design your system to minimize any shading issues – whether it from clouds or nearby trees. We’ve created a strong dealer network with expertise in your community's weather and installation rules to tailor your home’s PV solar system for maximum efficiency. That network includes Master Dealers, a select group of installers with close ties to their communities.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Six Important Questions Solar Owners Should Ask About Storage

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 15:07:52 GMT

Six Important Questions Solar Owners Should Ask About Storage

In 2020, SunPower announced the newest addition to its portfolio of streamlined solar solutions, SunVault™ storage. And while storage isn’t a new concept, there are still a number of questions and misconceptions about its role in managing energy production and costs. Below are the top six inquiries we hear about storage and our candid answers.

Why is energy storage important?

As we learned last summer in California and just this February in Texas, electric utility providers are prone to employing public safety power shutoffs to help mitigate loss and conserve energy. For safety reasons, solar panels installed must also turn off when the grid goes down. This has led many solar-powered homeowners to seek a product that can keep their homes powered during an outage. Batteries provide a happy glimpse into a future in which utilities are less reliant on big power plants in favor of a network of distributed energy resources (known as DERs) across their grid.

How does solar + storage work during an outage?

To power a home during an outage, a microgrid must be established. A microgrid is a closed system that mimics the power provided by the utility grid. With SunVault, when a grid outage is detected, the microgrid kicks on in just milliseconds (the lights in your home will barely flicker). To preserve the battery to power the most important things in the home like the refrigerators, lighting and pumps. Non-essential appliances like AC units, which use a lot of energy, are usually programmed to turn off during these events. The goal is to create a harmonious system that can last a few hours -- or in the worst case a few weeks -- until grid power is restored.

Does storage benefit the grid?

Every solar power system, regardless of storage, benefits the grid and eases strain on utilities. Storage supercharges that benefit by lessening the load. In the future, utilities are considering ways to interact with the storage customers more actively to provide additional grid stability. This strategy will be key as renewables become more popular.

Is my existing SunPower system compatible with SunVault?

Today, SunVault is only available to homeowners with the newest SunPower Equinox® AC module technology on their roofs. However, it will eventually be available to SunPower customers with legacy systems.

Why does storage costs so much?

In 35+ years of solarizing homes, we have learned that every home is different. Storage requires an even deeper dive into the anatomy of homes to understand the electrical wiring of the home and how the homeowners use power. Each home requires custom installation as well as robust and reliable hardware and energy management systems. Thankfully, the cost of the equipment itself has fallen dramatically. Similar to solar power, the costs of these custom installations installed by licensed professionals -- like those in the SunPower dealer network -- are greater than the equipment cost itself.

What’s the value of storage?

Unlike the clear economics of solar panels, the value of solar + storage is spread across additional considerations like grid reliability, utility programs and the emergency needs of the homeowner. So at this time, the value of storage is unique to the homeowner. That said, utility companies are also seeing the benefit of storage to the grid. It’s foreseeable that they will continue to modify their policies to incentivize homeowners to install storage in conjunction with their solar. This can be seen today in California, with utilities offering daily incentives for solar + storage homeowners to use their battery power from 4 p.m.-9 p.m. when utility power is at peak pricing.

In conclusion, SunVault is a reliable and beautiful solar + storage solution. While the value of storage will differ for homeowners across the United States, the price and functionality are ready to transform the way we power this country and the world.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Live Every Day Like Earth Day

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 16:24:44 GMT

6 Ways to Live Every Day Like Earth Day

We now live in a day and age where climate change has affected all of us in some way. Whether experiencing the impact of wildfires on the west coast, torrential hurricanes to the east or enduring wild winter weather in the south, it’s safe to say that no one can escape the consequences left behind by fossil fuels. But there are ways to reverse the damage done and promote a healthier planet and it starts with everyday habits right at home.

1. Reduce Waste

Many homeowners have taken simple steps to reduce the amount of waste they produce. Supplying your home with reusable items can cut down waste significantly. For example, many families have ditched the paper towels and use a cloth version instead. Repurposed containers for food storage and reusable water bottles and straws also fall into the category. As more homes adopt a sustainable lifestyle, we will continue to see how even minor changes like these can make an impact.

2. Get a Green Thumb

Having a home garden is beneficial for many reasons. For one thing, it can provide fresh produce for cooking and snacking. But beyond that, it can also help promote cleaner air while supporting beneficial birds and insects. Planting trees can also carry similar benefits while providing shade during warmer weather. Just make sure they don’t block any rooftop solar panels.

3. Clean Green

Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact many common cleaning products have. Conventional cleaners can contain ingredients that are non-biodegradable and can release toxins into water systems. The good news is that eco-friendly cleaning products are becoming more readily available on store shelves and are just as affordable. Some homeowners have even replaced common household cleaners altogether for more naturally derived counterparts like vinegar and baking soda. The best way to ensure minimal impact is to take a quick moment to read the label or go the DIY route.

4. Go Electric

Electrification has become increasingly popular over the past few years. The demand for electric vehicles continues to rise and manufacturers are taking note with goals to make these models more mainstream by 2025. Many new retail stores have caught on to the trend, providing charging stations for EV consumers. But cars aren’t the only things going electric. Yard tools like lawn mowers and weed eaters powered by battery are also becoming popular solutions, helping this outdoor task have a much cleaner level of air quality.

5. Reduce Energy Use

While you’ve probably heard it before, it’s important to be mindful of how much energy is being consumed at any given time. Many homeowners leave the majority of their appliances plugged in, even when not in use. Creating a habit of plugging things in only when needed can help reduce strain on the electrical grid. This has become increasingly important during wildfire season to help mitigate rolling blackouts. But that is just the tip of the iceberg for what homeowners can do when it comes to energy conservation. Other conscious decisions like only powering large appliances only when needed can also make a difference. For example, only run the dishwasher or washer and dryer with a full load. Switching off lights and keeping your house two degrees warmer in the summer or cooler in the winter can also play a part in energy conservation.

6. Switch to Solar Energy

Perhaps our favorite tip (yes, we’re biased) is opting in for clean energy. Solar power is a known solution for helping reduce a home’s carbon footprint. This source of renewable energy absorbs light from the sun to produce electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gasses. And for the times when your home isn’t able to pull power from the sun, there’s another sustainable resource that homeowners are readily adopting – solar batteries. SunPower’s SunVault™ system is a sleek storage solution featuring intelligent software that enables homeowners to choose how and when their stored energy is used. It’s a perfect companion to those looking for electricity resiliency during power outages and greener solar + storage solutions.

SunPower has a known track record for sustainable business practices. We don’t just offer clean energy solutions, we foster a culture of sustainability all the way down to our solar panel recycling program. Taking care of our planet is a way of life here at SunPower and we are continuously looking for new ways to live every day like Earth Day.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Electric Vehicle Owners Are Saving More!

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 16:19:34 GMT

How Electric Vehicle Owners are Discovering Even More Savings Through Solar Power

Clean energy has been breaking records for the past few years and it doesn’t look to be slowing down anytime soon. According to market insights provided by Solar Energy Industries Association in partnership with Wood Mackenzie, solar PV accounted for 43% of all new electricity-generating capacity additions through Q3 2020. Similarly, electronic vehicles (EVs) have also experienced record growth in 2020, registering a 43% increase despite a slump in overall auto sales. Even during a global pandemic, these industries have shown incredible resiliency as the demand for greener solutions continues to surge.

Perhaps one reason why these numbers are so similar is that solar energy and electric vehicles go hand-in-hand. Simply put, solar power can keep the engine running. Charging an EV with solar is not only a cleaner solution, it also can be much more economical. This is especially true if the home has SunPower’s highly efficient solar panels. SunPower’s solar panels are known to generate more power in less space when compared to conventional panels. With solar power, a home can produce its own energy instead of fully relying on the electrical grid. This can lead to serious savings when a monthly utility bill comes around.

For the times when power isn’t directly available from the sun, homeowners with SunPower’s SunVault™ storage solution can use their solar battery to pick up the slack. With its intelligent software, SunVault offers homeowners various options on how to use their excess energy. This includes storing it, using it during peak demand hours or tapping into it during power outages. It’s a great solution when homeowners rely on their electricity to power up important assets, including the family vehicle. During an online appointment, one of the questions our SunPower solar consultants often ask is if the homeowner has an electric vehicle. This helps our team factor in the right number of solar panels needed to not only power up the home but the EV as well.

So how much power can a homeowner expect to use on a monthly basis to keep their EV up and running? Instead of calculating miles per gallon, EV owners need to use a different formula to determine their costs. A common unit of measurement is kilowatt-hours per 100 miles. Typically to figure out the cost of an EV’s consumption, drivers multiply their vehicle's kWh/100 miles by the cost of electricity during the time of day the car is usually charged. This will help factor in any added demand charges or fees that the utility company may throw in during certain times of the day. For example, many electric models get about 25 kWh per 100 miles. The national average per kilowatt-hour is 13.3 cents. While this number varies state-by-state, a good reference can be found U.S. Energy Information Administration’s site. Multiplying 25 kWh per 100 miles by the national average of 13.3 cents gives you an average cost per mile of about $0.03. That’s a pretty attractive number! As you can see, by doing these calculations, most homeowners will find that electric vehicles are typically much more eco-friendly and economical over time than their fuel-based counterparts, especially if they are charged by solar power.

The decision to use solar energy to power electric vehicles isn’t a purely residential trend. Auto dealerships are finding its value for keeping a fleet of EVs charged and ready to test drive. Audi Seattle is the brand’s leading seller of its high-performance EVs. Looking to cut overhead costs and sustainably support a large power supply, Audi opted in for a 235 kW SunPower® solar system to offset 50 percent of the dealership’s electricity usage. As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, more dealerships will need to find ways to shave off the electric load that having the cars onsite will bring with them. There’s no doubt that highly efficient solar + storage solutions can take on the job.

Popular automotive manufacturers are amping up their production of electric vehicle models within the next few years. Toyota plans to launch 60 new hybrid, electric, or fuel-cell vehicles within that timeframe and BMW expects sales of its hybrid and EVs to account for 15 – 25% of its global sales. With this level or growth and demand, more homeowners and dealerships will be looking for ways to support their incoming electric vehicles in the most economical way possible. Solar power is not only the most affordable answer, it is also sustainable and extremely reliable. It’s why we expect to see more EV owners go solar.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Biden wants to cut U.S. climate pollution in half by 2030—here’s how

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 19:16:05 GMT

Reducing emissions by at least 50 percent will require “everything to go right,” one expert says.

After a four-year hiatus, the United States is officially taking climate change seriously again. On Thursday, President Joe Biden pledged that by 2030, the nation will slash its carbon pollution 50 to 52 percent compared with 2005 levels.

Th at goal, which represents America’s new “Nationally Determined Contribution” under the Paris Agreement, was announced during a two-day virtual summit Biden is hosting with leaders of the world’s largest economies, starting on Earth Day, to galvanize greater climate ambitions. It’s a bold leap forward from the Obama administration’s original Paris Agreement pledge to reduce emissions 26 to 28 percent below 2005 levels by 2025. But it falls squarely in line with what hundreds of scientists and public health experts, as well as heads of corporations, have called for in recent days.

The announcement comes the same week that the European Union agreed to reduce its carbon emissions 55 percent by 2030 compared with the 1990 levels, and the U.K. announced historic emissions cuts of 78 percent by 2035, also compared with 1990.

Many climate scientists say it’s imperative that the United States, which has put more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere over time than any other country, cut its climate-warming carbon pollution at least in half this decade. That’s necessary, they say, to limit global warming to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.5 degrees Celsius), the widely accepted threshold for preventing catastrophic damage from climate effects.

Halving emissions this decade won’t be easy, but the goal is within reach, according to independent studies and a behind-the-scenes analysis the federal government has been conducting in the lead up to Biden’s announcement. To make it happen, the administration will have to marshall all of the resources at its disposal, enabling and accelerating decarbonization across every sector of the American economy.

“If you want to get anywhere in the ballpark of 50 percent by 2030, you cannot leave anything on the table,” says Rebecca Dell, a strategist with the nonprofit ClimateWorks Foundation who helped coordinate Obama’s climate strategy for the Department of Energy. “That is a goal that requires everything to go right.”

A whole-government approach

The U.S. is currently the second biggest carbon emitter annually after China, with emissions of 6.6 billion metric tons in 2019. Its two largest sources are the transportation and power sectors, which respectively accounted for 29 and 25 percent of the 2019 total. Heavy industry, including steel, cement, and plastic production, represented 23 percent, while smaller shares were associated with agriculture (10 percent), and commercial and residential buildings (6 and 7 percent).

To halve emissions by 2030, much of the heavy lifting will need to be done by the power sector, which the Biden administration has already pledged to decarbonize by 2035. That’s because zero-carbon alternatives to fossil fuels, such as wind and solar power, are already available and being deployed at a large scale .

Roughly 40 percent of U.S. electricity came from renewables and nuclear power in 2020. Leah Stokes , an energy policy expert at the University of California, Santa Barbara, says that doubling the share of clean electricity on the grid to 80 percent by 2030 will get the U.S. halfway toward its overall goal of reducing emissions by 50 percent.

The “most important provision” needed to do so, she says, is a federal clean electricity standard that incentivizes utilities to purchase additional clean power over time. “Without that policy, we will not get to 80 percent clean [electricity] by 2030,” Stokes says.

Biden’s American Jobs Plan —the $2 trillion infrastructure package the administration unveiled in late March—pledges to establish such a standard. It also calls on Congress to extend federal clean energy tax credits used for commercial and residential solar projects, and it pledges to set up a new “Grid Deployment Authority” that will accelerate the buildout of transmission lines. A December report from Princeton University found that to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 (another Biden administration goal ) the U.S. must expand its transmission systems 60 percent by 2030.

Cleaning up the electric grid will also help the transit sector reduce its emissions, since electric cars, buses, and trucks need to be powered by carbon-free energy in order to realize their full climate benefits. At the same time, automakers need incentives to make electric vehicles as affordable and accessible as gas-powered cars.

According to Colin McKerracher, who leads advanced transport analysis at energy consultancy BloombergNEF, the “single biggest thing” the Biden administration can do to tilt the transit sector in the right direction is tighten federal fuel economy standards, which were rolled back under President Trump. The administration has already signaled that it plans to announce stricter standards by July.

To further accelerate the clean transit revolution, the Biden administration has pledged to ultimately electrify the entire federal vehicle fleet and establish new grant programs that will help deploy half a million electric vehicle chargers nationwide by 2030.

Industry and farms are a challenge

Whereas fossil fuel-free alternatives already exist in the transportation and power sectors, but just need to be deployed more quickly, in the industrial sector, basic research and technology demonstration projects are needed first. Processes like steel and cement production are carbon-intensive, and alternative technologie s, like using hydrogen made from renewable energy to produce steel , or capturing and sequestering carbon at cement plants, are not yet ready for commercial deployment.

Heavy industry needs to do “all of the work in the 2020 years that has already been done in the power sector,” Dell says. “So that in 2030, when we're talking about halving our emissions again by 2040, we're in the same situation for the industrial sector that we are for the power sector today.”

To that end, the Biden administration’s new infrastructure plan calls for establishing 10 “pioneer facilities” that demonstrate carbon capture at industrial plants, and for adjusting an Energy Department tax credit to encourage steel and cement makers to use the technology.

Investments in basic research are also required to help the agricultural sector cut its emissions faster, says Jane Zelikova, an ecologist and soil carbon scientist at the University of Wyoming. While strategies to reduce emissions from crop lands and put more carbon in soils exist, like planting cover crops and switching to no-till practices, more research is needed to determine the best places to deploy them at scale, she says.

“We know a lot about how soil carbon sequestration works,” says Zelikova. “But there’s a lot we don’t know. In order to predict whether certain practices will yield beneficial outcomes requires a lot more measuring and monitoring.”

Getting an aggressive climate agenda through a divided Congress won’t be easy. But key reforms like a federal clean electricity standard can be enacted through budget reconciliation, a process that allows federal spending bills to pass with a simple majority in the Senate, which Democrats have, barely. The Biden administration also doesn’t need Congressional approval to direct agencies to revise key environmental regulations, like fuel economy standards or limits on oil and gas-sector methane emissions—which are considered another key part of the U.S. meeting its climate goals and were also rolled back under Trump .

“There are a lot of pieces that the administration can get moving on right away through its own existing authority,” says Rachel Cleetus , a climate and energy policy director with the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Still, Cleetus says that Congress needs to “step up” in order to protect Americans from the dire impacts of climate change and to catalyze the nation’s economic recovery from the pandemic, two goals that she sees as “tightly interwoven.”

“These are not separate things,” Cleetus says. “Many of these [climate] solutions are exactly the kinds of things that can help jumpstart our economic recovery. There is no excuse for inaction now—we have to go big and bold in this moment.”

Read in National Geographic

Buying a Home with Solar Energy

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 17:59:41 GMT

“Is It Hard to Transfer a Solar Lease?” (And Other Common Questions About Buying a Home with Solar Energy.)

Anyone in the market for a new home can tell you the search process is both exciting and nerve-racking. Between location, school district, lot size, HOA fees and property taxes there’s a lot to consider. But what if that unicorn of a home finally pops up in your search results and it has solar on the roof? And further, what if it’s a solar lease that will need to be transferred? Can that make or break a deal?

It doesn’t have to, as long as the seller and the buyer both play their parts.

When you buy a home with an existing solar lease, it effectively means you will have to assume the lease contract and payment for the remainder of the term of the lease. As a part of this process, the solar provider who owns the system will need to run a credit check and verify your identity.

The seller also has some action items. They will need to pay a small processing fee for the termination and refiling of the UCC filings. A UCC filing allows the owner of the system – the solar company -- to notify other creditors about a debtor’s assets used as collateral for the purchase. The seller will also need to provide some extra paperwork as part of the Escrow Package, including documentation of the terminated UCC filings, assignment of the lease, and – for those who live in California -- a draft of the extinguishment of PUC. (The PUC is basically a document that says the home has an independent solar system that can be used to produce or sell energy.)

Timing to complete all these steps varies but sellers should give their provider at least 30 days’ notice to make sure the paperwork is in order. SunPower makes this step easy for homeowners who need to transfer or change their lease with an online form.

If taking over the lease isn’t for you, you can investigate buying the system outright. While this means making a lump sum purchase, the system would be yours and you would own all the energy you produce. Many long-term homeowners prefer this option as it decreases the total investment in the system while you will continue to see lower electricity bills.

Unfortunately, canceling a lease or having the panels removed is not usually an option. However, every solar company handles this differently so it’s best to check the contract to understand your options.

The upside of buying a house with solar? To start, you’ll be saving money and generating cleaner electricity on the first day you move in. Also, since the system is already activated, you don’t have to shop around for a dealer or coordinate with the installer. Need more from your system? SunPower has a network of nationwide dealers ready to assist if you decide you would like to add panels or battery storage to your existing SunPower system.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Five Solar Powered Homes

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 18:04:39 GMT

Five Solar Powered Homes That Stood Out in 2020

Homeowners have chosen SunPower solar solutions for over 35 years for many different reasons but there’s no denying that our beautifully sleek solar arrays command attention. SunPower solar panels are built for durability and feature specially designed cells that are backed with a solid copper foundation. This leaves behind a smooth, unique light trapping surface that not only makes our solar panels highly efficient but also gives the aesthetic appearance that many homeowners have sought after.

Although COVID-19 has changed many of the processes we use for solar installations, our expansive dealer network has adapted quickly. We have migrated what once were face-to-face conversations to online communications - including virtual consultation options. Also, we’ve developed tools and procedures to improve safety standards so that we can continue our mission to change how our world is powered but do so safely.

To celebrate the resilience of our dealer network, we’d thought we would spotlight five beautiful solar installations that really stood out in 2020.

Renova Energy

Breathtaking doesn’t even begin to describe this incredible solar installation by Renova Energy. This high-powered rooftop display ties in seamlessly with the modern aesthetic of the California home it sits on top of. Featuring our fully black solar panels to set the tone, the homeowner is able to generate highly efficient solar energy to offset needs like the swimming pool. All together this SunPower solar system is sized at just over 32 kW.

GreenLogic LLC

This beautiful home in Sag Harbor, New York was built with solar in mind. The architect wanted to fully integrate solar energy into the home. The results included all-black inset solar arrays that SunPower dealer GreenLogic Energy helped coordinate and install.

Freedom Solar

These SunPower solar panels are sure to grab the attention of Texans in Laredo with just one glance. Children of the 80’s and video game fans will appreciate this inspired design, which was installed by SunP ower by Freedom Solar in Texas at the request of a good-spirited homeowner. With their 9.9 kW solar system, this home will be ready to endure any space invasion that may come their way.

Tayco Solar & Electric

SunPower dealer Tayco Solar & Electric has been proudly showing off this glossy number on their social media profiles for a good reason. The all-black solar array has no conduit or visible racking, leaving behind an absolutely flawless appearance. With their eco-friendly benefits and low profile, the solar panels on this contemporary home in Charlotte, North Carolina are sure to be the envy of the neighborhood.

Berger Solar Electric

This homeowner in Bishop, California was looking to achieve energy independence. With multiple trees around the home, SunPower dealer Berger Solar Electric took on the job to find the best location for maximum generation. Multiple facing solar arrays on separate buildings were just the trick to not only power the home but the homeowner’s electric vehicle as well. To maintain aesthetics, the solar installer concealed conduits and wires on the 16 kW SunPower solar system. The level of design is the standard of quality homeowners have come to expect from the SunPower dealer network.

With the world’s best solar + storage solutions backed by an industry leading warranty , it’s no wonder more homeowners are turning to SunPower for their solar energy needs. And with our specially trained SunPower dealers, homeowners can trust they will receive top notch design expertise and service throughout their entire installation process.

To get started going solar with SunPower, homeowners can view our guide on how to choose a solar installer or fill out our online form to get in touch

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Increase Your Commercial Property Value

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 18:31:38 GMT

How Solar Power Can Increase Your Commercial Property Value

Listing the many benefits of commercial solar energy for business is easy but quantifying their value can be more challenging. The impact on property value is a prime example. While it’s likely true that a building equipped with high-quality solar panels for commercial property is more valuable than a facility that relies on fossil fuel-generated energy, determining exactly how much more valuable can be complicated. If increased property value is an important factor to your organization in justifying the cost of commercial solar panels, this article may help.

To start, let’s take a quick look at non-commercial, residential solar installations. A study performed by Zillow indicated that homes with solar panels sell for 4.1% more than comparable homes without them. While some reports indicate a similar correlation for business property valuations, not enough studies have been conducted to verify comparable findings for commercial sites. Still, the general takeaway is apparent: Adding solar power has the potential to increase a property’s selling price.

The specific impact of solar on commercial property value largely depends on the answer to each of the following questions:

Does the organization installing solar power own the building/property for the project? As one might expect, the greatest potential value-add occurs when the organization adopting commercial solar power owns the site and the solar equipment being installed. Buying the commercial solar equipment outright gives owners access to any possible tax incentives, reduced energy expenses and potential for claiming renewable energy credits (as well as the ability to promote the green attributes of their solar system). Increased commercial property value is also part of that benefit list.

How does a leased property deliver the benefits of commercial solar? Many organizations rent their commercial facilities, but that doesn’t mean they can’t benefit as well. Most of the costs of the property (e.g., insurance, property tax, utilities) are paid for by the lessee (or flow through to them in the form of higher rent). Installing commercial solar could reduce the energy costs the lessee would have to pay—and allow them to benefit from positive public perception by having solar on their site.

What is the added value for property owners who provide solar energy for tenants? Here are some benefits that renters can bring up when trying to convince a landlord to install commercial solar:

Tenants enjoying lower electricity bills may be more satisfied and willing to stay longer, reducing the time and expense of finding new renters.

Properly-structured PPAs or solar lease deals can potentially be transferred to new tenants if the original lessee leaves, making the property more attractive to potential commercial renters.

Properties with a solar installation could also benefit from the growing number of organizations taking corporate social responsibility more seriously.

Are there any “softer” benefits of going solar that ultimately have an indirect impact on property value? Another less obvious but noteworthy consideration is the fact that few things say “environmental awareness,” “social responsibility” and “progressive thinking” like visible commercial solar panels. In addition to improving public image, a commercial solar system offers all the benefits and cost savings of going green, while also updating a building’s physical appearance. In general, better-looking properties yield increased property values.

In summary, when evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of commercial solar, property value is something that should be factored into the equation. To get learn more and get started on your journey going solar, fill out our contact form .

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

The New mySunPower™ Monitoring App

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 18:46:18 GMT

The New mySunPower™ Monitoring App Gives Homeowners Insight and Control Over Their Electricity Use

With more than 35 years of experience, it’s no surprise that SunPower built some of the earliest home solar power systems with online monitoring. That pioneering spirit led us to be the first company to launch home consumption at scale, showing not only solar production, but also home energy consumption to thousands of homeowners more than 15 years ago.

Since then, solar energy adoption has accelerated while energy monitoring technology has remained mostly the same. But all of that is about to change.

SunPower is excited to announce the first step in a new generation of solar energy monitoring software. The mySunPower™ app, available for Android and iOS devices, will change how homeowners interact with their SunPower® solar system. Users will notice a redesigned interface, more data and full integration with SunVault™ solar battery storage.

The new monitoring app builds on the existing mySunPower digital experience. Homeowners can now see their lease/sales proposals in mySunPower, upon deciding their preference for financing and agreeing to a system structure that best meets their needs, they can sign their initial agreement with SunPower in the application. Once their system is up and running, they can continue using the app for the long-term monitoring of their system.

The New mySunPower App Has a Completely New Look

In making the mySunPower app, SunPower rethought everything from the login screen to how power and energy are summarized throughout the year.

The new interface is deceptively simple. Upon first logging in, users can view the basic status of their system including energy production, consumption and battery flow, depending on their setup. Homeowners can easily see summaries for the day, month, year or lifetime of the system. Throughout the app, graphs offer initial information at a glance, while more in-depth information will reveal itself with a tap or a swipe.

The New mySunPower App Has More Data

mySunPower was built with the connected home in mind. For SunPower homeowners with production meters, energy data displays live in the app while connected via WiFi.* Turn on the microwave and homeowners can quickly see that their consumption has increased within seconds, right in the palm of their hand.

We’re incorporating weather information directly into the app, too. Today, we’re showing homeowners their solar and storage performance relative to the current weather conditions. In the future, the system will react to weather conditions and show notifications based on upcoming weather events.

The New mySunPower App Helps Manage SunPower® SunVault™ Battery Storage

The mySunPower user interface seamlessly ties into the SunVault ™ Storage system making mySunPower the perfect companion when homeowners want to use their stored power. Users can set their battery to three modes:

Self-Supply: In Self-Supply mode, SunVault provides power to the house whenever the solar production does not cover all usage. This is the most environmentally friendly option.
Cost Savings: In Cost Savings mode, SunVault considers the utility rate to provide power to the home during the time of day when energy from the grid is more expensive (peak times) and lets the home get power from the utility during less expensive time periods.
Reserve: In Reserve mode, SunVault will charge up to 100% of its capacity and reserve that charge for a specified time period in preparation for an upcoming power outage. During the power outage, SunVault can automatically provide power to the home.

When launching the app during a power loss, homeowners will be notified that they’re experiencing an outage event and can track how their SunVault solar battery system powers their home.

SunPower is transforming how hundreds of thousands of current SunPower solar homes, and millions more future homeowners, will engage with their home electricity use. We’re setting out to make the world’s best solar, storage and home energy monitoring application and we’re just getting started. Homeowners can look forward to more exciting features along the way.

SunPower Equinox® system customers can look for the new app in their favorite app store. The balance of SunPower’s 285,000 monitoring customers will be invited to use the app throughout Spring 2021.

We’re interested in what you think of the new experience. Send a note with your feedback to mysunpower@sunpower.com.

* Live data is available to PVS5 and PVS6 sites with production meters installed.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Go Solar

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:02:56 GMT

Go Solar in Four Easy Steps This Year

For homeowners interested in adding photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to their homes or businesses, 2021 has already gotten off to a great start. Just before ringing in the new year, Congress extended the deadline for the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) which can offset the tax debt of many owners of residential, commercial and utility-scale solar projects. As a result, eligible solar enthusiasts may be able to take advantage of a 26% tax credit of the cost of their systems.1

Switching to solar power can be done in just four easy steps.

1. Find a Solar Installer

What’s the best way to go solar? Begin by finding the right solar installer for your home. Ask friends that have already installed a solar system for recommendations or consult popular review sites. Then, check out SunPower’s nationwide network of third-party approved dealers, who receive specialized training to install SunPower’s highly efficient solar panels.

Your solar installer will ask you questions about your home to learn about your utility and monthly electric bills. Every home has a different orientation to the sun, so your installer will want to evaluate your home’s configuration and roof space. Information about your roof like its age (flat or pitched) and composition (shingles, tiles or clay) are important to factor into the solar estimation, design and installation process.

2. Review and Choose a Financing Solution

After giving you an estimate, the installer will provide solar financing options that can help you determine the best option to qualify for the ITC as well as other state and local financial incentives. There are three main financing options: purchase, loan or lease2. All have important advantages, and your solar dealer or energy consultant can help you evaluate which works best for you.

3. Coordinate with Local Authorities

An experienced SunPower-certified installer or installation contractor will handle all the details involved in preparing your house for solar energy, including rooftop surveys and applications. Every local government has different permitting and building code standards and they change frequently. SunPower dealers have strong relationships with local permitting offices and inspectors to ensure that your installation goes smoothly. They also know the ins and outs of working with local utilities and homeowners’ associations.

4. Install and Activate the System

A project manager will make sure you’re kept up to date throughout the installation process. Once a work crew arrives at your house, the installation should take no more than two to three days, depending on the size and scale of the installation. After it is completed, an inspector from your utility or local electric authority will give the thumbs up on your system. With that, you’ll be ready to start generating your own clean energy.

The Bottom Line

Buying solar is a long-term investment, so you’ll also need to know about the warranty that covers your installation. SunPower offers a best-in-industry 25-year Power and Product Warranty for home use. Save yourself the trouble and use a system built by one company, like SunPower’s Equinox platform. Mix-and-match systems with parts cobbled together from different manufacturers can lead to a major headache because each component will come with separate warranties.

SunPower can commit to such a strong warranty because it uses solar panels that are specifically designed for durability and efficiency. SunPower solar panels are built on a solid copper foundation that helps them hold up better than conventional panels, even after years of exposure to wind, rain, snow and all kinds of weather. In fact, SunPower panels are 35 percent more efficient at generating energy than conventional panels.*

Make this the year you finally go solar with SunPower. Find out more specifics about how you can lower your electric bill and help the environment on SunPower’s website or by calling 1-800-SUNPOWER.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Beyond Solar Panel Efficiency

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 14:50:06 GMT

Beyond Solar Panel Efficiency: 4 Important Considerations When Evaluating Commercial Solar Panels

As you research commercial solar panel options for your business, you may come across the term “solar panel efficiency.” But what does that phrase mean and does it really matter? What other characteristics of commercial solar panels should you be aware of when evaluating and comparing your choices?

1. Solar Panel Efficiency and Why it Matters

Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how much of the sun’s energy a solar panel is able to convert into electricity under ideal, laboratory-like conditions. For example, a panel with a 15% efficiency rate would produce an amount of power equal to 15% of what it receives from the sun. On average, today’s commercially available solar panels are able to achieve a 15% to 24% efficiency rate, depending on the technology.

Because any commercial solar panel you purchase will have a certain watt rating, efficiency may not seem all that important at first glance. After all, how different can two panels really be?

The answer is very different, and here’s why: With greater efficiency comes greater flexibility. You can generate the same amount of power in less space with fewer panels—and maximize your power output from the space you have available. Fewer panels also means lower installation costs. And if you didn’t initially have to use all available space, having fewer panels makes it easier to add more down the road, should your energy requirements change.

Four key questions for evaluating and comparing commercial solar panel efficiency:

What is the efficiency rating of the panels?

What is the size of the panels?

How many and what square footage of panels would be required to generate the energy your business requires?

How easy will it be to add panels to your installation in the future?

While you may save money by paying a lower price for less-efficient panels, you should keep a few other important factors in mind.

2. Durability and Degradation Rate: Finding Panels You Can Count On for the Long Term

The durability of your commercial solar panels is just as important as their efficiency. How long can you count on them to deliver the performance you were expecting when they were purchased? When it comes to a significant business investment like solar—one exposed to the daily highs and lows of temperature, wind, snow and humidity—durability matters.

And we’re not just talking about the cost of repair or replacement. It’s also important to consider the cost of lost power, as well as the administrative hours spent as issues are being resolved. The less durable the panels, the more likely you’ll spend time filling out claims forms, waiting for panels to be replaced and missing out on valuable solar power.

The degradation rate of your solar panels goes hand in hand with durability. Over time, the performance of all solar panels degrades. The trick is determining whether the money you’d save up front on lower-quality panels outweighs the costs of more rapid degradation over time.

Choosing less-expensive panels can help you achieve your financial goals more quickly. Keep in mind, though, that a difference of even a tenth of a percentage point in annual degradation rate can have a significant impact on how much energy your system produces during its lifetime. Find out what the average degradation rate is of any panel you’re considering and what you can expect the energy output to be 20 or 25 years down the road.

Four key questions for evaluating and comparing commercial solar panel durability and degradation:

Are there any specific features designed to keep the panels performing under harsh conditions (e.g., extreme temperature fluctuations, high winds, repeated snow loading and moisture)?

What is the historic failure rate of the panel?

What is the average degradation rate of the solar panels?

How will the degradation rate affect the energy output over the life of your system?

3. Performance: Getting the Most Energy from Your Panels

As mentioned earlier, a solar panel’s efficiency is measured under ideal, lab-like circumstances. But the reality can be much different. Up on the roof, in less-than-optimal light or under extreme temperatures, solar panels are unlikely to achieve their efficiency rating. That’s why it’s important to know their real-world performance—i.e., the amount of energy you can realistically expect given the specifics of your installation type and location.

Solar providers and installers should be able to present you with the performance of the panels based on weather history in your area, the position of your panels and how much average sunlight they’re likely to receive throughout the year.

Four key questions for evaluating and comparing commercial solar panel performance:

Based on where you’re located and the placement of your panels, what performance can you expect?

For how much of the day can you expect that level of performance?

How will the panels perform in lower-light conditions or as the spectrum of light changes?

What performance can you expect in higher temperatures (above 80 degrees)?

4. Warranty: Knowing Exactly What’s Covered, Who Pays for What and For How Long

We’ve discussed efficiency, durability, degradation rate and performance when it comes to your solar panels, but there’s one more important topic to cover: the warranty. Understanding if and how your solar panels will be replaced—and how disruptive the replacement process could be to your business—is just as essential to your decision as any other feature.

Typically, all solar panels come with: 1) a product warranty covering the product against defects; and 2) a power warranty covering a minimum guaranteed power rating.

These two warranties can either be for the same period of time (25-year combined) or for different periods (10-year product, 25-year power)—and may or may not include the service required to replace defective or underperforming panels.

As you evaluate the long-term financial impact of a solar investment for your business, be sure to factor in the potential costs associated with any product and power warranty claims. If they aren’t concurrent, find out what will be covered by a panel’s power warranty once the product warranty runs out. Weigh the short-term savings that may come with less-expensive panels against the long-term impact of possible higher return rates and replacement costs. And understand what steps you’ll need to take should a panel require replacement. The fewer surprises, the better.

The key questions for evaluating and comparing solar panel warranties:

What product and power warranties are offered? How long does each one last?

What exactly is covered by the product warranty? For example, if a panel malfunctions, what will you be expected to pay—and how long will it realistically take—to have the old panel removed and a new panel shipped and installed?

If the power warranty that comes with the solar panels is longer than the product warranty, what’s covered if a product defect causes power loss?

What does the panel replacement process look like?

Understanding the efficiency of a solar panel is only the start of knowing which panel is best for your commercial solar installation. Just as important are a panel’s durability, degradation rate, performance and warranty. Understanding these characteristics—as well as the short- and long-term financial impact that may come with each—can help you make more confident and educated decisions.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Smart Living

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 14:43:48 GMT

Smart Living: The Latest Smart Home Tech to Add to Your Home

Living in a smart house used to only exist in sci-fi movies. Fast forward to today and connected homes and smart gadgets are quickly becoming the norm. Smart home tech has transformed every aspect of home life, from security and basic kitchen tasks to how a house is built. It’s making our lives more comfortable, economical, convenient, and safe.

If you haven’t upgraded your home with the latest tech there are many ways to start. If your needs are relatively simple, there are affordable options that can bring about convenience, however, if you want to go all out you can create a fully connected and modern space. So, check out the latest top smart home tech products that you can add to your home today.

Voice Technology

Voice assistants

“Hey Alexa, play my workout playlist.” While voice assistants have been around since the early 2010s, it has taken us a while to get comfortable talking to devices. Today’s most popular commands include asking voice assistants to play music, answer a question, turn on the lights, provide the weather, and set reminders, alarms, and timers. As artificial intelligence (AI) advances, virtual assistants will become more personalized towards individuals. New features such as voice detection can recognize who is talking and create a unique, tailored experience, like calling you by a nickname or providing music recommendations that fit your style.

Home Security

Video doorbells, cameras, and alarm systems

We have all heard stories about porch pirates stealing packages. One of the biggest smart home tech trends is investing in video doorbells, security cameras, and alarm systems. Grouped together, a standardized smart home security system may be one of the best investments you can make to protect your family and your home. Video doorbells and home security cameras now have live views and voice capabilities that allow users to see and speak to people at the door from virtually anywhere. Motion sensors can detect and record activity that can trigger an alarm or phone notification and alert authorities. Installing these can provide that added sense of security knowing that your home is being monitored 24/7.

Fingerprint and facial recognition door locks

Installing fingerprint or facial recognition locks can change your life, especially if you always misplace your spare key. Biometric technology and Bluetooth have already made their way into phones and tablets, but they are now starting to become more common in door locks. With just a glance or fingerprint scan, a lock can recognize a person by targeting facial features or fingerprint patterns to detect whether they are welcome or not. Not at home or lost your key? This technology can also be synced with a phone app or Bluetooth so that owners can remotely lock and unlock a door at the touch of a button.

Indoor drones

Imagine your own personal security guard patrolling the halls while you are not at home. While this might not be common today, drone innovation has made strides within the home security space. Unlike traditional video cameras, drones provide better ground activity and can cover more areas. While you are away, automated drone technology will fly inside your home monitoring different rooms and areas. Take it a step further, users can create map paths for the drone to follow.

Sustainable Smart Home Tech

Solar panels

Using solar panels for on-site energy generation has become a popular alternative to traditional electricity, especially in cities that get a lot of sun year-round like Miami, FL. Now, architects and designers are finding unique ways to incorporate solar panels into the design of a home, not just on the roof. Solar panels can be used in different ways that can save homeowners hundreds of dollars per month such as heating water, providing energy, and charging electric vehicles. They are also likely to enhance your home’s value, and depending on where you live, you can even earn tax credits and rebates.

Living plant walls

Plants are a fun way to bring color and life into your home. Living walls also known as green walls, can be a great way to style plain backdrops to create a striking focal point in your home. Besides design, living walls serve multiple sustainability purposes. They can be used to improve air quality as a natural air pollutant filter, serve as a noise buffer, and create added insulation during the winter months. Living walls can also be configured to filter out water from sinks, showers, and appliances. Water is redirected to the top of the wall, filters and irrigates plants, and is treated for reuse, creating the ultimate smart home tech piece for the environment.

Home Fixtures

Human-centric lighting

Light bulbs are a great entry-point into smart home tech. Connected to a smart device, lightbulbs can help you look like you are home when on vacation, change colors based on mood, save on energy consumption, and conveniently turn off all the lights with a single voice command. Using smart home lights throughout your house can also drastically upgrade the look and feel of a room or outdoor space. Consider adding smart light bulbs to your kitchen, bedrooms, and even driveway to adjust hue and brightness based on what you might be feeling.

Programmable thermostats

Many people are not aware of how much a thermostat impacts the household budget. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs accounts for half of the average home utility bill. Smart thermostats seek to tackle this problem. Within one week of installation, smart thermostats can learn schedules to modify temperatures based on household activities. They can also track daily and monthly usage to get a sense of where heat and air are being directed to and adjust temperatures accordingly based on the season.

In the Kitchen

Kitchen appliances

For those who love to cook, consider adding smart appliances into your kitchen. Modern-day fridges can take phone calls, link to television, save energy, and provide recipes. However, new fridge tech has not stopped there. If you are out and about at the grocery store and want to check what needs to be replaced, some fridges allow you to access built-in cameras via your smartphone to see what’s inside your fridge no matter where you may be. Smart ovens are also starting to incorporate phone connectivity. People can preheat their oven on the way home, adjust timers remotely, and have notifications sent via text message when food is done cooking.

Kitchen counters and workspaces

Ditch the granite countertops and go with a smart work surface. One of the latest technologies in kitchen countertops includes a sink that can disappear and reappear with a single wave of the hand. Smart home tech also seeks to tackle problems such as food consumption. Kitchen scales are being embedded into the stone that can allow sensors to measure and weigh ingredients. With the data, a mobile app can provide curated recipes with the goal of preparing delicious meals without food waste.

Spa Bathrooms

Smart showers & chromatherapy bathtubs

The perfect shower concert just got easier. A fun way to spruce up your bathroom time is by installing a Bluetooth speaker showerhead. These speakers easily connect to your phone to blast your favorite tunes while taking a shower. For something more sophisticated, showers are starting to double as steam rooms by trapping vaporous steam to elicit pore opening moisture. If you’re looking to relax after a long day at work, Chromatherapy, or color therapy bathtubs, can help put your mind and body at ease by using colored lights to elicit feelings.

Touchless toilets and digital bidets

The toilet is one of the most germ-ridden locations in your home. Highly advanced toilets seek to keep things clean and comfortable by integrating features such as self-opening and closing lids, heated seats, deodorizing systems, and temperature-controlled water. For freshening up, digital bidets also can be automated for hands-free operation. Two self-sterilizing nozzles spray gently aerated spritzes of water which can be adjusted for temperature, pressure, and spray width. They even come with an air dryer and deodorizer.

Making a Smart Home Gym

Touchscreen fitness mirrors

Smart home tech is bringing the gym to you. Touchscreen, wall-mounted fitness mirrors are the latest craze in home gym technology. If you are missing the instruction and motivation of an in-person trainer, simply turn on the screen and let an AI trainer provide guided workouts and fitness programs that fit your liking. New tech also includes virtual spotters, sensors to monitor every rep, and measuring your progress in real-time. Remote group training has also become more popular, and groups can virtually work out together from the comfort of their home while still keeping the workout, music, and atmosphere people love about a local gym.

Workout equipment

If curating your workout is your thing, there are many products to help you keep track of your fitness goals. Smart dumbbells and kettlebells can automatically change weights up to 42lbs and track reps from the touch of a button. These are perfect for smaller home gym owners looking to get in simple workouts such as shoulder presses and deadlifts. Punching bags with smart technology are a great way to blow off some steam. These punching bags come equipped with trackers that you wrap around your hand to track punch speed and the number of punches via an app. This is perfect for the person who loves a quick and specific workout. Stationary Bikes are a great way to get in that much-needed cardio, the newest technology offers pre-recorded classes that sync to the mechanics of the bike to automatically adjust resistance and incline as well as the ability to sync to smartwatches.

This post originally appeared on the Redfin Blog

Well Known Brands & SunPower Solar Solutions

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 16:04:31 GMT

Why These Well Known Brands Chose SunPower® Solar Solutions in 2020

There’s no doubt that 2020 was a whirlwind of a year. It seems that COVID-19 has presented plenty of challenges for most businesses, with lasting effects that are making it difficult or impossible to balance the books. Combine this with climate change-related impacts, such as California wildfires and last year's record-breaking Atlantic hurricane season, and it’s easy to understand why some companies are taking steps to mitigate financial obstacles while meeting sustainability goals at the same time.

SunPower has teamed up with some pretty reputable brands this year to install sizable solar projects across the country. Here are a few of our favorites from 2020.

McDonald's

The happiest place on Earth became a little brighter and a lot more sustainable this year with a SunPower solar installation. The McDonald’s located at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is making news for its energy-efficient design. Adorned with 1,066 rooftop solar panels, the solar system is capable of producing up to 600,000 kilowatts of electricity per year. And while we’d say the solar installation is the most impressive feature of this restaurant, there are actually some other cool nods to sustainability, including a living green wall that actively absorbs rainwater and Louver windows that automatically open and close to push hot air out and bring cool air in during the summer months.

Washington Metro (WMATA)

Recently labeled as the largest community solar project in the region, the Washington Metro is covering parking lots and garages at four of its locations with SunPower solar panels. The equivalent of 13 football fields worth of space, these solar projects have the capacity to generate 12.8 megawatts of solar power to help provide area homeowners with utility savings. The sites are estimated to produce enough power for at least 1,500 single-family homes, giving respective locals a share of clean and reliable electricity for many years to come.

Chevron

Chevron is increasing the use of renewables and offsets in support of its business. Recently, a 29-megawatt SunPower solar system was constructed at Chevron’s Lost Hills location in California. The project has been predicted to produce more than 1.4 billion kilowatt-hours of solar energy within the next two decades. With that, the expectation is for the solar system to generate electricity equivalent to 80% of the location’s typical energy use.

There are plans for the Lost Hills location to feature a battery storage component. These battery modules will store energy generated from the solar arrays during peak solar output to dispatch later when solar output is lower, helping Chevron to receive additional savings on electricity.

Gilead

Gilead has also set their sights on environmental stewardship. Another ambitious goal setter, Gilead hopes to reduce carbon emissions by 25% by the year 2025. To help spur this effort along, Gilead has invested in cleaner sources of electricity. Currently, five of Gilead’s locations operate solely on renewable energy. One of these locations in Foster City, California, boasts a SunPower system that is expected to generate over 9 million kWh of clean solar annually.

These featured projects are just a snapshot of the exciting work SunPower is doing with brands from coast to coast. In fact, data collected from Wood Mackenzie’s U.S. commercial solar leaderboard report positions SunPower as the #1 Commercial Solar Provider for installations and module technology for three consecutive years in a row. Simply said, businesses trust SunPower with its high-quality solar solutions and comprehensive warranty again and again. In fact, SunPower often works with the same companies more than once for additional installations. To learn more about commercial solar solutions, fill out our form.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Congress Extends Tax Credit

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 17:26:43 GMT

Congress Extends Tax Credit That Can Offset the Cost of Solar

Congress recently provided a big ray of sunshine to homeowners who plan to start using solar energy. Lawmakers extended the deadline for the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) , one of the most important policy drivers for solar power in the United States. The ITC has enabled owners of residential, commercial and utility-scale solar projects to receive a tax credit on a percentage of the total installed cost of their solar system, making this clean energy approach much more economical.

In December 2020, Congress approved an economic stimulus package designed in part to provide COVID-19 relief. That package included a two-year extension of the federal solar investment tax credit. The ITC for solar customers was originally scheduled to drop from 26% in 2020 to 22% in 2021 and then be phased out all together in 2022.

Thanks to the recent extension, the tax credit will now stay at 26% for two more years. That means in 2021 and 2022, homeowners who purchase a new SunPower® solar systems may be eligible for a 26 percent credit of the cost of their systems that can be applied toward their tax debt.1 In 2023, they can deduct 22 percent1 and – unless its renewed again – the credit will end in 2024.

This extension comes as a welcome relief for customers who plan to purchase solar, SunPower, and SunPower’s top-notch network of solar installers. After setbacks to the solar industry in 2020 due to COVID-19, the extension of the tax credit will help ensure the continued resilience of clean, renewable energy throughout the phase of the global pandemic and beyond.

To take full advantage of the ITC, it is good to know the details surrounding how it works, including its benefits to homeowners. Let’s take a closer look with these five questions:

How does a tax credit work?

It’s a dollar-for-dollar tax credit that can be applied to the income taxes you owe. So if you owe $2,000 in federal taxes, and you qualify for $2,000 toward the ITC, you can offset your full tax debt with the credit. Fortunately, if you don’t have a high enough tax bill to claim the entire credit in one year, you may be able to roll over the remaining amount to future years as long as the tax credit is in effect.1

Does this apply to anyone whose house uses solar energy?

It only applies to those who purchase their solar system. Homeowners who lease solar equipment or use a solar power purchase agreement (PPA) usually cannot receive the tax credit. However, some lease and PPA agreements do provide for exceptions. Homeowners who finance their solar through a loan may also be eligible. And those who own a solar installation indirectly may benefit. For instance, condominium owners may be able to receive the tax credit if they contribute to the cost of a solar installation.1

What expenses can be considered when calculating the tax credit?

The following expenses are included in the ITC: Solar panels and equipment used for installation (including inverters, mounting equipment and wiring). Contractor labor costs associated with installation, including permitting fees, inspection costs, and developer fees. Solar storage units are also eligible, provided that they are charged exclusively by the solar panels associated with the storage system.1

How do I claim the ITC?

You can claim it on your annual federal tax return. Not all customers who purchase solar are eligible for the ITC. We recommend that you consult with your tax advisor to see if you are eligible, and if so, how the tax credit can be applied to your specific circumstances.

Do states provide tax incentives for installing solar?

Yes, many do. Find out more here. Federal tax credits usually have no impact on state tax incentives, and the reverse is true well.

To find out how you can save money on electricity and help the environment with a solar installation, set up an online appointment with one of our SunPower solar experts.

1 Tax credits subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its partners or customers about specific tax outcomes. Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Please visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

NC GreenPower

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 16:01:10 GMT

NC GreenPower Is Transforming North Carolina by Powering Up Its Schools

with Solar Energy

NC GreenPower, a nonprofit supporting renewable energy and carbon offset initiatives, is helping to change how our world is powered, one school at a time. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, North Carolina consumes almost four times more energy than it produces. NC GreenPower is looking to amend that with the goal of adding 5-kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to North Carolina schools throughout the state’s 100 counties. That amount of clean power is equivalent of more than 27,000 pounds of coal burned each year per school.

In 2015, Solar+ Schools kicked off as a pilot program, selecting up to five eligible schools annually to receive a solar energy grant. Last year, the number of participants doubled. In all, NC GreenPower has provided 34 schools with solar installations, and helping to power these schools are hundreds of PV solar modules donated by SunPower.

During the initial launch, NC GreenPower provided its solar-powered schools with production projections of up to 6,500 kilowatt-hours a year. What the organization didn’t expect was for production to be significantly higher. Delivering on their claim to fame, SunPower’s highly efficient modules have exceeded expectations, with some school projects producing over 8,000 kilowatt-hours per year. Because of this, many schools have experienced an increase in their annual savings, which has been appreciated not only by the schools but also by NC GreenPower. The organization has long acknowledged the quality, performance and reliability that SunPower’s solar solutions are providing for its schools.

New ParagraphWhile the savings are a desirable benefit, teachers are finding great value in the hands-on learning opportunities as well. NC GreenPower provides instructors with a STEM-based curriculum and training from NEED.org to give students a closer look at how solar power works. These teachers have the potential to mentor the next solar pioneers, creating a more sustainable future through careers in clean energy. The crucial role solar power can play in our nation’s schools is the exact reason the Solar+ Schools program will continue to grow and evolve.

2021 will be the program’s most ambitious year yet, kicking off a goal of awarding PV systems to 15 schools. Applications for the new campaign are officially open until February 28, 2021. Schools interested in participating just need to answer a few simple questions to get the process started.

NC GreenPower has been instrumental to helping schools across North Carolina sport SunPower solar panels, but SunPower’s work with schools doesn’t stop there. SunPower has enabled school districts nationwide to discover savings through solar power. And by savings, we mean millions of dollars. Just a few featured on this list include Kern High School District, Porterville United School District and San Benito High School. All have put these additional funds back into their respective districts to further improve programs and facility needs. Contact a SunPower representative to find out how your school could benefit from solar energy.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Solar Industry Trends in 2021

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 15:48:02 GMT

Another big year for the solar industry in 2021

In 2020, the highest number of total solar installations smashed previous records, leading experts to project another big year for the solar industry in 2021. But we all know what happened next. Despite the year’s setbacks, solar power has remained resilient inspiring a hopeful outlook for the year ahead. Below are 5 projections SunPower has identified as upcoming trends in the new year based on what we’ve seen so far.

Solar Rebounds from the Pandemic

The pandemic’s entry in 2020 challenged just about every business to adapt and innovate. While the solar industry had its own obstacles to bear, implementing stricter safety protocols and fine-tuning digital business practices made all the difference. For SunPower, making these changes early on was a large part of our success. Online appointments took over the traditional consultation process and solar installers practiced responsible social distancing. Each month, we have seen an upward trend in the number of homeowners ready to take charge of their electricity. Only 2% of U.S. residents are currently using solar energy, leaving a large market of possibilities.

Effects of Climate Change Continue

In addition to the global pandemic, multiple natural disasters made themselves known during 2020, many of which are being contributed to climate change. With what seemed to be a longer than usual wildfire season across the west coast and a record-breaking hurricane season along the Atlantic, this past year saw more than enough evidence that environmental stewardship is more important than ever before. While the effects of climate change don’t seem to be slowing down, SunPower will continue to stay focused on changing how our world is powered.

Sustainability Goals Become More Ambitious

Brands across the nation are actively embracing more sustainable practices, in part, to help mitigate the effects of climate change. As a result, many companies have created ambitious plans to significantly reduce carbon emissions, all within a fairly tight timeline. SunPower has had the pleasure to work with many of these businesses in an effort to help them reach these goals. Just last year, SunPower helped install more than 26 MW of solar for its commercial customers and that’s not counting PPA partnerships or connections made through its expansive dealer network. That’s an equivalent to carbon sequestered by approximately 2.5 million tree seedlings grown over a 10-year span of time. We look forward to increasing those efforts within the next year as more brands implement cleaner energy for cost savings and corporate social responsibility efforts.

Energy Storage Demand Rises

The future of solar energy is here and it starts with homeowners getting more control over the power they generate through their solar panels. When extreme weather hits and leads to rolling blackouts from wildfire activity, snowstorms and even hurricanes, it makes sense that homeowners would want a solar battery on their side. Many are already finding great value in the peace of mind that a reliable backup system can bring and we expect interest to only increase over time. At SunPower, we’ve already seen an encouraging demand for our SunVault™ storage system as we roll the product out in select regions across the U.S.

Solar Power Becomes More Affordable

Solar energy has become more mainstream globally and a lot of that is due to policies supporting its implementation. As a result, the decision to switch to solar power has become increasingly more affordable throughout the decades. So much so that last year solar energy hit a new milestone, historically low costs. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar power is now the cheapest source of electricity in history for some parts of the world. And policymakers aren’t stopping there. From state to federal levels, environmental advocates like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) are working to create more benefits for solar adopters. This includes the recent extension of the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC). Beginning this year, the ITC was originally slated to decrease to 22% of the total installed cost of a solar system. However, with the COVID-19 rescue package, the tax credit is now set to 26% during 2021 and 2022.

While we don’t exactly know what the future holds, SunPower has seen the incredible resiliency of the solar industry during one of the most challenging years any of us have ever experienced in this lifetime. That alone helps SunPower remain focused on the mission at hand, providing high-quality solar + storage solutions that homeowners and business owners have come to trust throughout its 35 years. We look forward to what the new year will bring, anticipating that it will end even better than it started.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Year of Change Positions SunPower for Long-Term Success

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 14:48:54 GMT

Sharing our thoughts about solar energy and a sustainable future

I’ve experienced many market transitions since joining SunPower as its CEO in 2003, but it’s hard to think of a year with more significant shifts than 2020. When I began working in solar, it was an uphill battle to get people to take our industry seriously. Rooftop panels were for those on the fringe of environmentalism, and mass adoption of our technology seemed to be decades away.

Seventeen years later, we are a leader in an industry that is 70 times as large. Today, major American corporations use solar to save money and reach aggressive sustainability goals. Homeowners are adopting solar and storage systems because it’s sustainable — and an increasingly less expensive and more reliable source of energy than what they can get from the traditional grid. People that live in apartments are accessing solar energy from shared community sites. And we've only just begun.

2020 has been a year of change for all people and all industries as we’ve worked to adapt and overcome in the face of one of the greatest global challenges in our lifetimes. COVID-19 has changed the way SunPower works, from shifting sales to virtual sales consultations to conducting a large portion of our business from home offices. None of this has been easy, and I want to express my deep gratitude to the SunPower team for the creativity and hard work put in to ensure another successful year.

For SunPower, our year of change wasn’t just brought on by the pandemic. In August, we spun off our panel manufacturing business in order to clarify our mission and set the stage for focused growth and expansion. We are incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to set a high bar with the most powerful and efficient panels in the industry, and we see a great future in distributed generation, pairing solar energy with storage and software.

We believe that solar rooftops will soon become the norm in every American neighborhood and that most of those roofs will be paired with a battery storage system to ensure affordable and reliable electricity. We are already on our way — Wood MacKenzie predicts that by 2025, more than 25% of all behind-the-meter solar systems will be paired with storage, up from under 5% in 2019. Some of our dealers are seeing attach rates that already well exceed that prediction.

With solar plus storage and the ability to monitor comes more control over how, when and where you use your electricity, and consumers need software and mobile apps that make this seamless and easy. In the near future, storing, managing and using your solar energy should be as simple as managing your online bank account.

This is our mission: to change the way our world is powered. For this new era of energy to work, it must be available to everyone. The events of 2020 have shown that there is work to be done to ensure equity for all Americans, and our industry is no exception. We can’t stand on the sidelines. We must do our part to deliver environmental justice and to make solar energy accessible to all, including low-income communities and communities of color.

Our vision and goals are clear, and in working towards them we can help our nation reach its renewable energy goals while fueling the economy with well-paying jobs. We are already making progress. This year we put solar on 12,000 new homes and retrofitted 30,000 more. We are shipping and installing SunVault™ storage systems at a rapid rate, with supply chains based in Alabama and Minnesota. We are expanding our sales and installation teams across the country as demand for solar + storage increases. Congress just passed a bipartisan bill that extends the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), an important step towards maximizing the potential of distributed solar and storage in the coming years.

As a result of this growth, we expect to hire more than 300 professionals nationwide next year. And we are proud to work with our dealer network which includes 685 American small businesses across 46 states; altogether, these dealers employ more than 17,000 people.

Solar represents the future of American energy. Our job is to make it happen. While the past year has shown that this mission won’t be easy, it has also shown that our company has the talent, resilience and clarity of purpose to reach its goals. We expect 2021 to be a year of growth for SunPower as we lead the way in providing solar energy services, and as we will invest in new talent across America to make it happen. Thank you to everyone at SunPower for your work in building this bright future.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

5 Misconceptions About the Effects of Weather on Commercial Solar Panels

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 22:34:20 GMT

Misconception #1: Solar panel installations don’t perform well in cold-weather climates

This is, bar none, the biggest fallacy known to PV technology. The truth is, solar panels extract energy from light, not heat. So cold weather has little to do with how well your solar installation functions.

If anything, chilly temps might cause an installation to perform better. Because, as solar panels get hotter and hotter—like on a scorching July afternoon in Yuma, Arizona—they actually begin to produce less power from the same amount of sunlight. But that’s a very extreme example.

In the Mid-Atlantic region and other areas of the U.S. prone to freezing temps, as long as the sun is shining on your panels, you’ll be generating energy.

Misconception #2: There’s no point in having a solar installation in areas prone to heavy snow

Incorrect. Solar panels and snow can (and should) co-exist. The amount of energy you extract from your solar installation in snowy locales is almost entirely based on the quality of your panels and how they’re installed.

The best panels are designed to handle extreme variations in temperature (also known as thermal cycling) in both hot and cold climates. And, when they’re properly installed, they'll melt snow faster than a rooftop without panels.

Plus, if you’re in an extremely snowy area, you can opt for the carport solar installation design to help keep your employees, visitors or students safe from the elements.

Misconception #3: Solar panels and wind don’t mix

Not true. A high-quality solar installation should not be any more affected by strong winds—Nor’easter or otherwise—than any other part of your building or facility.

The best solar installations are informed by local wind patterns and are comprised of components that have also been tested against extreme wind loads.

Think holistically: investing in top-of-the-line panels with a provider who assembles your system with low-quality cables, tie downs or racking is short-sighted. You don’t want a cheap cable whipping in the wind to compromise your energy output.

Misconception #4: Solar panels are fragile and can easily crack when subjected to hail

If you live in the Northeast, or anywhere with extreme weather conditions, you might think, “Solar panels and hail—that can’t be a good combination.” You might even picture your panels cracking the first time they’re pelted with those high-speed ice balls. But the simplest way to dispel that rumor is to say, “There’s a test for that.”

Every solar panel manufactured is required to undergo testing for extreme weather conditions. And to prove that they’ve done so, a manufacturer must obtain an Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) certification, or a variation thereof outside of the United States.

The UL certification proves that a solar panel has satisfied a number of safety, durability and quality assessments. However, it should be noted that this certification only ensures a minimum amount of testing.

Misconception #5: All UL-certified commercial solar panels fare the same in extreme weather conditions

Nope. Unfortunately, UL certifications only designate that a solar panel manufacturer has met the minimum requirements when it comes to testing. It’s up to you to do a little extra probing. Inquire as to what your provider does in the way of testing beyond UL certifications. They might be ready for you to ask, “Do solar panels work during bad weather?” or “How does weather affect solar panel efficiency?” But, qualified commercial solar companies should be prepared to answer the following, as well:

“Does the panel manufacturer have an onsite testing facility?”
“What kinds of tests are regularly performed?”
“How will these solar panels fare in a hurricane?”

Be blunt and weigh your options. The goal is to determine whether the manufacturer is beating the heck out of their panels in an effort to solve for every eventuality. You should ensure that your solar installer considers how all parts of the installation will fare in inclement conditions.

So many misconceptions, so little time. In the end, the moral of the story is twofold: 1) If the sun is shining, you’ll be producing clean energy; and 2) high-quality commercial solar installations are designed to withstand Mother Nature’s occasional temper tantrums. It’s as simple as that.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

How to Avoid Solar Scammers

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 20:05:10 GMT

Here are some tips designed to help avoid the pitfalls caused by solar scammers

A growing number of people are eager to learn more about solar energy and find out what kind of savings it can provide. Unfortunately, many con artists understand this well and have designed schemes that can turn the dreams of residential solar power into a nightmare for some homeowners.

Unlike buying a car or a house, most customers have no experience with photovoltaic (PV) solar systems. That means it can be hard to tell a reputable solar company from a scammer, and scammers can come in many forms. Some are charming salespeople who come to the door. Others unleash a torrent of phone calls, emails and letters.

When it’s done right, switching to PV solar can save customers money on their power and reduce their carbon footprint. Avoiding solar power scams and enjoying these benefits is not difficult, but it does require vigilance.

Here are some tips designed to help avoid the pitfalls caused by solar scammers:

Don’t sign anything right away – Scammers are masters of the hard sell. Their job is to get you to sign their contract now, Now!, NOW!!! Don’t let them bully you. Never sign anything until you’ve researched at least three solar companies. Find out rates, ask hard questions about features, installation costs and payments. If any offers seem too good to be true, they probably are. Reputable companies like SunPower and its network of high-quality dealers have nothing to fear from your scrutiny. Take a close look until all your questions are answered.

Never start without a contract – While some scammers pressure you to sign a contract right away, others pressure people to start work without signing any legal documents at all. Don’t let them. A reputable company will insist on a contract and will help you understand what it means for you. Also, don’t confuse a free estimate – which many good solar companies will provide – with an actual contract. Some shady companies give an estimate and act as if that is your contract. It’s not. Any contract you do sign should be easy to understand.

Get references – Check the company’s track record. How long have they been in business? Do they have a physical address and not just a website or a phone number? Talk to customers who’ve had installations done by that company. Sometimes a simple online search will turn up valuable information or The company you pick should have more positive reviews than negative. Finally, check with the Better Business Bureau as well as your state or local consumer protection agencies.

Look for warranties guaranteed by contract – A company that’s willing to sign a legally binding warranty is likely to be reputable. But read over the warranty to make sure it covers what the company says it covers. Again, do research and ask for references. SunPower is recognized as having the most comprehensive warranty in the solar industry.

Watch for people posing as utility or government workers – Solar panel fraud often starts with people who pretend they’re workers at well-known companies or for the government. Ask for proof of ID and check it independently. Again, sign nothing right away.

Don’t be stampeded toward one type of financing – There are three main ways to finance PV solar: purchase, loan or lease. Each one has pluses and minuses. A reputable company will be able to offer a range of financing options and can explain them transparently. Be sure the type of financing you choose fits your financial situation and won’t hurt you long-term. Also, some solar panel scams come in the form of “free” solar panels. The panels are free, but they come in exchange for financing agreements that may hurt you over time.

Research applicable tax benefits – Installing PV solar can come with great tax benefits from both the state and federal governments. Scammers often misrepresent or flat-out lie about how large those benefits can be. A reputable company can easily direct you to the websites or government agencies with accurate information.

If you think you’ve dealt with a solar scammer, call the police as well as your state or local consumer protection agency. In some cases, you can get restitution. Also, inform both your local utility and your elected representatives. Often, they can warn people and help make changes that can prevent future scams.

PV solar is an investment that will stretch over many years. The company that installs your system becomes a partner. Do your research and avoid snap decisions, and that partner will become someone you want to work with for the long haul. Start your research on the perfect solar set-up by checking out SunPower’s solar savings estimate.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Ways to Reduce Business Energy Costs

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 19:56:40 GMT

10 Simple Ways to Reduce Business Energy Costs

You might not think much about paying your electric bill every month. And if you do, well, that’s just the cost of doing business, right? Not exactly. Take a moment to consider the energy you’re likely paying for that room in your office no one ever seems to use, and you’ll definitely want to learn how to reduce your business energy costs.

The fact is, depending on the size of your organization and facilities, you can lower your electric bill by thousands of dollars every month just by following a few easy steps to increase the energy efficiency of your offices. Here’s a rundown of the specific tips and simple changes you can make that can add up to short-term and long-term energy savings.

1. Get an energy audit

Nothing gets the heart racing like the word “audit.” While this might not sound like a good thing at first, when it comes to your business energy costs and usage, it really is. Most utility companies offer free business energy audits to their commercial customers. They can help you figure out where your money is going every month, how to increase energy efficiency and how to lower electric bills.

2. When not in use, turn off lights and equipment

This step might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how much energy all those computers, monitors, printers and other devices consume while setting there unused but still left on. By making sure they’re in “sleep mode” or turned off completely overnight, you won’t be paying for electricity you’re not even using. Make it someone’s nightly routine to take a quick tour of the office and flip the OFF switch on idle equipment. The same goes for breakroom devices such as microwaves, coffeemakers, radios and TVs. One tip is to plug all these energy vampires into a single power strip, so you can turn them off at the same time on your way out the door.

3. Take advantage of natural sunlight as often as you can

Let the sunshine in! Open the blinds around your workspaces to make the best use of daylight—and take advantage of skylights or other natural light sources to reduce your lighting needs during daytime hours. It’s also worthwhile to see whether there are areas of your office that are overly lit and remove any lighting that might not be necessary.

4. Install long-lasting compact fluorescent light (CFL) or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs

This is one step where saving a little bit in a lot of places can really add up. Replacing a single 60-watt bulb with an 18-watt energy-efficient bulb that’s on for 10 hours a day can easily save a business $1 or more each month. Multiply that out to an entire year—and by the hundreds (if not thousands) of bulbs in your business—and you’re talking about some serious savings. Energy-efficient bulbs aren’t just a smart answer about how to lower electric bills in the short term. Their extended service life will help you save in the long term, too. Energy Star LED light bulbs not only use at least 75% less energy, they can last 50 times longer than the average incandescent—up to 20 years.

5. Use motion detectors and automatic dimmers that adjust to your needs

Believe it or not, lighting accounts for almost 20% of the electricity used in U.S. commercial buildings. So, being even just a little bit smarter about when, where and how you use the lighting in your building(s) can add up to big savings. Consider installing motion detectors in hallways, meeting spaces and other places where “always-on” isn’t always needed—along with automatic dimming controllers that measure and adjust to the light levels you actually need.

6. Install programmable thermostats, and use them wisely

A programmable thermostat gives you the power to automatically adjust the temperature of your workplace when no one’s there (e.g., most nights, weekends and holidays). Set yours to turn the AC or heat on 30 minutes before people arrive and off 30 to 60 minutes before they leave. In warmer weather months, it’s a good idea to set your thermostat no lower than 78 degrees during office hours in order to reduce energy use. Then, during cooler weather periods, set your thermostat no higher than 68 degrees.

Fun fact: Keeping your office temperature just 1 degree cooler during winters and 1 degree warmer during summers can reduce the power you use by up to 10%!

7. Keep the heat in (or out) with screens, film and weather-stripping

While you might think that gentle breeze from your conference room window isn’t a big deal, it’s really money and energy flying right out the building—and it’s too easy a fix to ignore. Add or replace weather-stripping, caulk or foam around your windows and doors to save energy. Drafts aren’t the only way windows can cost you energy and money, however. Windows let in the sun’s light and heat, which can make it more expensive to cool your office in warmer weather. Luckily, there are plenty of window treatments that can help your business reduce heat gain and increase energy efficiency, including solar screen window shades, awnings and high-reflectivity window films.

8. Purchase energy-efficient office equipment

When you need new office equipment, be sure to look for the Energy Star logo. Energy Star-labeled computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, scanners and copiers can run much more efficiently and automatically power down during extended inactivity. That can help you save 50% or more in energy use on these power-hungry devices. And, if your old heater or air conditioner is not working at maximum efficiency, it could draw unnecessary power, which also costs you money. Replace any old heaters and AC units with Energy Star models.

9. Consider alternative and renewable energy sources to help power your business

Using commercial renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to power some or all of your business can help lower your business energy costs over time. Doing so also generates power that’s free of harmful CO2 emissions and other greenhouse gases. Based on a number of factors, there may never be a better time to invest in solar (or other sources of clean energy) to get the energy your business needs while paying less over the long term. Installing a commercial solar energy storage system can also help.

10. Keep your HVAC systems running smoothly

Change the filters on your HVAC equipment regularly, and make sure to have the units inspected and cleaned as often as recommended. Keep the areas in front of all vents clear of furniture and paper. As much as 25% more energy is required to distribute air if your vents are blocked.

Twenty years ago, if you had asked many business leaders, “What is energy efficiency and how does it impact your bottom line?” you probably would have gotten a lot of blank stares. We’ve come a long way since then. And while you might believe your business is already doing its part, there’s always room to increase your energy efficiency and save even more on your electric bill. Learning how to reduce business energy costs throughout your offices—and using renewable energy sources to generate more of your power—can put your organization in a much better position to compete and succeed.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Advantages of Renewable Energy

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 19:27:04 GMT

The Top Advantages of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy sources are by definition constantly replenished. Fossil fuels like coal or gasoline burn up and are gone, but the sun keeps shining and the wind keeps blowing no matter how many homes use them to make electricity.

The main types of renewable energy sources include: solar, wind, geothermal, bioenergy, hydropower, and hydrogen. These types of energy are also called clean energy.

Below we take a closer look at six of the most common alternative energy types along with their benefits:

Solar Power

Solar power is a type of renewable energy that captures the sun’s energy. There are several types of solar power, but the best known is photovoltaic (PV) solar which uses solar cell technology to convert sunlight.

SunPower® solar panels feature Maxeon® solar cells that contain a unique, light-trapping surface to harvest power from visible light as well as infrared and ultraviolet light waves. It’s this technology that not only makes SunPower solar panels the most efficient in the market1 but helps solar system owners generate enough power to save money over time. And with the most comprehensive 25-year warranty in the industry, a SunPower solar system can go on to produce clean energy for decades.

Wind

Wind and solar are the two fastest-growing types of utility-scale electrical generation in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Wind flow is captured by giant turbines and converted into electricity. In fact, wind turbines can convert almost half of the wind that hits them into electrical power.

Geothermal

Geothermal power plants harness heat generated from the earth, usually in areas near volcanos or tectonic activity – though geothermal power can be found in other places as well. A geothermal plant can be put on a small plot of land as long as there’s plenty of heat coming up from the earth.

Bioenergy

People have been using biological matter to create energy for centuries. This can include a simple campfire or turning biological matter into fuel (like using corn to make ethanol for cars). Bioenergy can also involve using bacteria to release gas that can generate power. Materials for bioenergy can be found everywhere and using them for this purpose often gets rid of waste in a constructive way.

Hydropower

This type of energy is created by moving water. Damming a river forms a reservoir, and the water from the reservoir spins a turbine that produces electricity.

Like hydropower, hydrokinetic uses the energy created by moving water. However, hydrokinetic power uses the motion of ocean waves and free-flowing water in rivers. Oceans cover more than 70 percent of the planet and the energy generated by all those waves can be used to spin turbines. More than half of Americans live near coastlines, so the power would be near large population centers. However, hydrokinetic energy is still largely experimental and the environmental impacts on marine life remain unclear.

Hydrogen

Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe, and it can generate a lot of energy while producing little or no pollution. Liquid hydrogen has been used since the 1950s to launch rockets into orbit. Hydrogen fuel cells in cars and other vehicles convert the potential chemical energy of hydrogen into electricity, with water and heat as the only byproducts.

All of the sources mentioned above have been developed to create a more environmentally friendly approach towards powering our world. Unlike fossil fuels that have a limited lifespan, these six types of alternative energy are providing innovative solutions to utilize resources that are readily available. Some, like bioenergy, are even taking on two environmental challenges by eliminating both greenhouse gasses and waste. These efforts paired with their increasing affordability provide more accessibility to cleaner power options, making them more commonplace.

While many of the forms mentioned above are still being perfected, solar technology remains one of the least polluting forms of renewable energy, as well as one of the most affordable. With multiple solar solutions that are readily available for home and business installation, SunPower provides an easy and reliable way to start enjoying the benefits of renewable energy right away. To find out more about how to go solar, sign up for an online consultation with one of our knowledgeable solar consultants.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

6 Factors Affecting the Cost of Solar for Your Business

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 20:10:58 GMT

6 Factors Affecting the Cost of Solar for Your Business You May Not Know About

While the cost of solar power for business continues to fall, your company may still be looking for ways to reduce the near-term financial impact of your solar investment. In fact, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind as you weigh the front-end cost of a commercial solar system against the long-term savings it could bring your organization.

As you’ll see, commercial solar tax credits are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to gauging the actual costs of investing in solar power for business. Here are six factors you may not have thought about—considerations that could save your business tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars per year. Be sure to click through the links in each section for more detail on each of these topics.

1. Earning credit for going solar: The solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

First created in 2006 (and extended in 2015), the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a federal policy designed to encourage the deployment of solar energy in the U.S. by offsetting the cost of commercial solar systems. The solar ITC allows organizations that invest in qualifying solar projects to receive a credit against the income taxes they’d otherwise owe the federal government.

The solar ITC is equal to a percentage of the amount invested in an eligible installation. Note, however, that the ITC steps down1 and is currently a 26% tax credit for 2020, dropping to 22% in 2021 and 10% after 2021. So the sooner you act, the more you can save.

2. Getting paid for giving back: Net metering

Net energy metering (NEM) is essentially a billing arrangement that allows organizations generating their own electricity to deliver unused energy back to the grid—and be credited at the retail energy rate. In most cases, these credits are applied to your monthly electric utility bill or rolled over month-to-month until they’re used up. You can even be compensated for any excess energy you generate. It can be a highly effective way to reduce the overall cost of solar panels for business.

It’s important to know that NEM policies can vary widely, depending on your utility and state. So be sure to do your homework to see if net metering is currently an option in your state. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE), which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, is a great place to find out.

3. Earning cash for energy produced: Solar Renewable Energy Credits

Considered as the currency of renewable energy, Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) allow organizations to track—and potentially profit from—the amount of clean, renewable energy produced by a commercial solar system. The more electricity produced, the more SRECs created. Many organizations choose to sell these credits to help offset the cost of installing commercial solar panels.

While SRECs can be traded directly, most organizations choose to use a third-party aggregator to sell their SRECs. As with NEM, SREC policies and markets vary widely by state and are not in place everywhere. Check DSIRE to find out whether these innovative credits are available to you.

4. Knowing what costs what, and when: Utility rate structure

Like most businesses, you probably pay two types of charges on your monthly utility bill: 1) usage charges (based on actual kilowatt-hours used), which can vary by time of day; and 2) demand charges, which are calculated based on your maximum kilowatt usage in a month (typically measured in 15-minute intervals).

Knowing how your utility structures these rates—and their impact on your monthly energy costs—could save you thousands of dollars every month. Getting those details will help you decide how to better manage your usage and whether investing in solutions like commercial solar and solar battery storage (see below) may make financial sense.

5. Reducing costs using the energy you’ve stored: Solar battery storage

An ever-growing number of businesses are taking a closer look at the potential of battery storage to lower their monthly energy bills, especially when combined with a commercial solar system. These refrigerator-sized batteries can offer a highly effective way to reduce demand charges by discharging their stored energy when needed to offset spikes in demand—potentially leading to substantial savings.

Battery storage systems can be purchased outright or leased from your solar provider, which helps eliminate upfront and ongoing maintenance costs. Combined solar and battery storage systems qualify for the solar ITC, and there may also be state rebates available with the purchase or lease of a storage system. Ask your provider or an independent energy consultant to analyze your load profile. They can help you evaluate whether solar energy storage is a good fit for your business.

6. Taking advantage of policies and rebates near you: State and local incentives

Promoting the growth and proliferation of clean, sustainable energy in business isn’t just a federal interest—many state and local governments offer support, rebates and other incentives. And that can mean additional ways to offset the cost of installing commercial solar panels.

As previously mentioned, the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is a great site to find federal, state and local renewable energy initiatives—including solar—in your area. Search by city, state or ZIP code for the latest policy and incentive information—and check their Other Resources page for links to state and local clean energy organizations that could provide even more information and money-saving tips.

As you’ve seen, there are a number of innovative ways to help offset and reduce the cost of solar power for business. All it really takes is a bit of time, a little research and a willingness to ask the right questions of your commercial solar provider and utility company. Doing so could mean significant savings for your business in both the short term (with the help of incentives like the commercial solar Investment Tax Credit) and the long term (with solar energy savings and the help of battery storage to reduce periods of peak demand).

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

The Top 3 Solar Power Questions Homeowners Want Answered

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 21:22:12 GMT

Save money on your energy bill and reduce carbon footprint.

The SunPower Solar Advisor team, based in Austin, Texas, takes calls from homeowners interested in solar, answers their questions and then connects them to one of our dealer partners in their area. As you might imagine, questions range from the informational “How does solar work?” to the more complex “How efficient are SunPower's solar panels?”. The following are some of the most popular questions the team fields from those looking to go solar, save money on their energy bill and reduce their carbon footprint.

“How do I get free solar?”

Unfortunately, there are many misleading ads out there suggesting that solar can be free. This is simply not the case. There are, however, many federal and state tax incentives that make solar more affordable. Homeowners who purchase a solar system in 2020 can benefit from the Solar Investment Tax Credit, or ITC, which allows buyers to deduct 26% of the cost of their solar energy system from their federal taxes.1 In addition to rebates like the ITC, SunPower also offers multiple financing options, such as lease or loan, providing homeowners options when it comes to paying for their system. Last but not least, remember that solar is a long-term investment. So, while there is an initial cost to get started, those with solar energy typically pay less for electricity over the life of their home because the majority of their energy needs are being met by power collected from the sun.

“Why does solar cost so much?”

Solar technology is just that, technology. SunPower provides a premium product with the industry's most powerful solar panels2. The power behind these panels all comes down to what makes SunPower unique, Maxeon® solar cells. Made with precision, Maxeon cells separate themselves from conventional cells with a smooth, anti-reflective coating that allows the surface to trap more sun - including infrared and ultraviolet light. In addition, the thick copper backing adds strength and prevents corrosion. Together, these qualities grant SunPower panels maximum efficiency within the industry2 by surpassing the common downfalls conventional panels run into, like exposure and weathering.

In addition, every piece of a SunPower solar system is meticulously designed and tested for long-term reliability. This is why SunPower stands behind our technology with the SunPower® Complete Confidence Warranty. SunPower covers what conventional solar warranties don’t, and guarantees that panels won’t lose more than 8% of their original power output in 25 years. Compare that to just 19% for conventional solar.

“Can I get a battery for my solar system?”

With the recent power outages in California, many people are looking for a power backup or storage solution. In late 2019, SunPower announced the limited launch Equinox™ Storage, which works with the SunPower Equinox® solar system to harness and store energy from the sun. With this solution, homeowners are able to use the solar that is saved in the battery in a way that fits their needs depending on how the system is set up3. While Equinox storage won’t be widely available in the U.S. until late 2020, that doesn’t mean homeowners are left in the dark. Their best bet is to schedule an appointment with one of our dealers to learn about the A-series panels and be sure to mention that they are interested in adding a battery so their dealer can help advise them on the best course of action. Homeowners can also sign up to be among the first to know when Equinox storage will be available in their area.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog

Most Efficient Solar Panels?

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 21:16:20 GMT

Which Solar Panels are the Most Efficient?

Most homeowners have limited space on their roof or in their yard to set up a photovoltaic (PV) solar system. In a word, they're looking for efficiency: How can they get the most kilowatt hours out of the fewest panels?

In a word, SunPower.

SunPower's solar panels are widely acknowledged to be the industry's most efficient1 with an ability to convert the most sunlight into usable energy. But the benefit for homeowners goes beyond SunPower’s solar panel technology. While other solar companies are hooked up to hybrid systems that use parts from several different companies, SunPower's panels are linked to integrated systems designed solely by their own manufacturers to absorb more light for more power.

Here's a quick look at what makes SunPower® panels the industry's most powerful solar panels:1

Technology: SunPower's ability to create maximum energy starts with the ultra-pure silicon used to make anti-reflective glass, that in turn, soaks up sunlight and provides a sleek aesthetic homeowners seek. The anti-reflective glass in most SunPower panels allows the light that enters to bounce back into the panel and harvest as much power as possible. It is important to note that the panels don't just rely on visible light – the light we see – they also collect more infrared and ultraviolet light than any other solar panel in the market. As a result, SunPower panels generate more power than other panels, even on cloudy days. SunPower also uses intra-digitated back contact technology where all of the wires that carry the electricity from each cell in the solar panel are placed onto the back. That helps prevent power loss due to shading.

Durability: Durability can be defined as long-term efficiency. All solar panels produce slightly less energy over time. The industry standard is about 0.8 percent each year, but SunPower offers panels with a loss rate of 0.3 percent each year. That's because SunPower panels are built on a solid copper foundation that helps them operate more efficiently, even after prolonged exposure to wind, rain, snow and other types of weathering. The strong copper backing on the Maxeon® solar cell technology combined with ultra-pure silicon and a light-trapping glass surface, makes SunPower Maxeon panels 30 percent more efficient at generating energy than conventional panels. That's why SunPower can offer the most comprehensive system warranty in the solar industry.

Company stability: SunPower leads the industry in efficiency because it's been both a global innovator in solar technology, as well as, a top installer of PV solar systems for both homes and businesses. Every part of a SunPower system, down to the last wire, is designed to work together by one company. This year, SunPower starts a new chapter with its research arm, Maxeon Solar Technology. This strategic partnership between Maxeon Solar and SunPower will lead to homeowners receiving top solar panel efficiency in a comprehensive system designed by a single source, along with SunPower's industry-leading warranty on both existing and new solar systems.

Top-notch installation: Every home is oriented to the sun differently, so every solar system is unique. SunPower has created a strong dealer network with the know-how and SunPower equipment to tailor each home's PV system for maximum efficiency. That network includes Master Dealers, a select group of installers with close ties to their communities. These expert dealers set the industry pace on installation and training, and – most importantly – they know how to build a lasting rapport with customers.

Simply put, SunPower's super-efficient panels create savings on your electricity over time. That's especially true of the newly released A-Series panels, which incorporate the best of SunPower’s high-performing, reliable technology into the world’s first ever 400- and 415-watt commercially available residential solar panel. That kind of efficiency not only saves money over the life of the system, it also helps reduce the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resources Blog