FAQ

Solar panels allow photons, or particles of light to knock electrons free from atoms, generating a flow of electricity. Panels comprise of many smaller units called (photovoltaic) cells that convert sunlight into electricity.  A standard PV cell is a thin semiconductor sandwich, with two layers of highly purified silicon. 

Solar efficiency refers to the portion of energy in the form of sunlight that is converted via Photovoltaics (PV)  into electricity. The efficiency of the solar cells used in combination with latitude and climate, determines the annual energy output of the system.

Yes, if your roof is pitched not flat the racking system that holds the PV modules will penetrate the roof. We use specialized flashing and sealant with rails that support a range of wind and snow conditions. 

An evaluation will take place at your project residence to evaluate the condition of your roof and the electrical panel to ensure a solar energy system is compatibility.  If there is an issue with tree shading we will advise whether removing or trimming the obstructions is an option.  

Bliss Solar, LLC will contact you if an upgrade to the electrical panel is needed. This means your new solar panels will require more amps of current and the ampere capacity of your electrical box will need to increase. In order to take advantage of solar energy rebates, it’s important to understand the critical components of any solar installation. The typical residential project is approximately (3) months from start to finish including permit. There are times the department of buildings or utility company may experience a backlog, which may extend wait times. We do our best to expedite, but have no control over these entities. 

Yes, preferably (12) months will help with our assessment and quote. In the instance of new construction with no billing history we will provide a design and proposal without comparable pre and post solar cash-flow analysis. 

The levelized, or average, cost of electricity from a solar (PV) array is derived from the money spent to buy, install, finance and maintain the system divided by the total amount of electricity that system is expected to produce over its lifetime. 

The value of Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) is expressed in terms of dollars per kilowatt-hour ($/kWh). The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) has provided industry stability and growth since its initial passage in 2006.

In the last decade, solar has experienced an average annual growth rate of 59%. Installations surged in 2016 ahead of potential drop down of the ITC, but an extension in late 2015 has created federal policy stability through 2021. 

Depending on market availability we use Tier (1) rated panels and inverters as indicated here: https://scorecard.pvel.com/top-performers/ As for inverters, contingent on the specific commercial project we typically use SMA, Yotta Energy, CPS, Solis or Enphase.  

Hypothetically, yes, this can be accomplished but the main requirement is one thing—roof space, roof space and more roof space!  To accommodate large energy usage, many solar panels are required.  So if the energy must split over multiple meters this can be done and worked out with the electric utility company.  

PV Modules are warranted two ways, first is from defects. These days most manufacturers offer 10 to 12 years.

The second way is a linear performance which is typically between 25 to 30 years depending on the manufacturer.  For example, contingent on the manufacturer they typically guarantee a nominal power output during the first year, with a maximum annual degradation of 0.5% thereafter, ensuring at least 86% of nominal power output after 25 to 30 years.

The inverters are warranted between 10-12 years also contingent on the manufacturer. Inverter manufacturers typically provide an optional extented warranty which usually covers 20 years.

Our standard labor workmanship warranty is covered for 5 years from date of installation. 

Batteries store excess solar electricity at your home or business instead of sending it back to the grid. If your solar panels are producing more electricity than you need, the excess energy goes towards charging the batteries when your panels aren’t producing electricity.

The (ITC) Federal Tax Credit is a credit the customer will receive, which is valued at 30% of the total project cost for the tax year 2023. The new The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) is a game changer for business owners and Nonprofits that own buildings and residential customers who own their own property.  

Each state may provide incentives based on your geographical area. Please contact Bliss Solar for details. 

Solar panels are made to withstand extreme weather and temperature including ice, hail, etc., although there is no guarantee for such conditions. Weather elements can affect the ability of solar panels to fully produce, but this is contingent on the severity of the conditions.  The upside is if your system over produces in the warmer months such as June, July and August you may receive a net meter credit off-setting potential future utility billing in colder months. Sometimes the utility may take time to report the credit depending on your city region and chosen billing method. 

Yes we can, but there are benefits to having a down payment of 15-20% such as a lower monthly payment with faster payback.  

This would not be a good candidate for solar, although we may use some of the north facing area to compensate an entire system should roof space be limited.