In the past decade Solar technology has gone mainstream.  Reliable, maintenance free, noise free, and with nothing to setup or program, solar energy systems are one of the easiest to own devices in your home. 

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

How does a solar PV system work?



The photovoltaic (PV) modules on your roof convert sunlight into electricity. PV solar systems utilize panels made of silicon, which react to sunlight. Through this photovoltaic process, the system generates (DC) electricity. This DC electricity is routed from the panels to a device (called an inverter) which converts the electricity into normal (AC) electricty for use in the home. Click here for video.

Why should I invest in a solar electric system now?
There are many good reasons to invest now and begin reaping the benefits.

• Solar energy systems are actually an investment that pays interest, through tax credits and reduced electric bills.
• Generate your own electricity and become energy independent. Invest in a solar electric system and generate your own electricity from sunlight; a clean, silent, renewable energy source with no emissions.
• Enjoy long-term solar life expectancy. With PV panels' 25-year warranty and an estimate lifespan of 40+ years, your solar system will shelter you from rising electric rates for many years to come.

How do I sell electricity back to the utility company?
Texas is one of 40 states with a law that provides for 'Net metering' to take place. This means when you are generating more electricity than you are using, the power goes back out onto the utility grid - causing your meter to spin backwards!  Then when you are using more electricity than the system can generate (at night) the meter spins normally.  All this happens automatically. 

In order to sign up for net metering, the utility will have you sign a standard contract that allows you to become a 'power generator'.  Home Star Solar will take care of this for you.  When the utility company reads your meter at the end of each month it will simply display a much lower usage.


What happens if there is a black out?
In the event of a black out, your system is designed to shut off.  This is required by your utility company so that their technicians can safely repair the main utility lines.  If you want backup power during a blackout, we can propose a battery backup solution that works with your solar panels and is safe for the utility workers.  Solar energy systems are also compatible with backup generators.


Do I need a battery back-up?
No. Solar PV systems connect directly to your local utility grid. On sunny days, your solar electric system sends surplus energy to the grid for credit to your utility bill. The utility provides the power at night and on a rainy day, and you tap into the credit your solar system earned on sunny days -- no batteries are needed.


What does solar-generated electricity do for the environment?
Using solar energy to replace the use of traditional fossil fuel energy sources can prevent the release of pollutants into the atmosphere. Your system will reduce the demand on existing fossil-fuel power plants, thereby helping to reduce pollutants and global-warming CO₂ emissions.


How much does a solar electric system cost?
System costs are based on the size of the system. Keep in mind that each system is sized to the unique annual energy needs of each customer. Systems are designed to replace some or all of the utility supplied electricity you use annually. Site-specific elements (such as usage patterns and electric rate schedules) and financial incentives will affect your total system investment. Please contact us for a free analysis and cost estimate based on your specific situation and needs. 


Does my house or business have to face south?
No. South-facing systems are ideal, but southeast or southwest orientations can be used with minimal loss of production.


Can I make additions to my solar system if I add on to my home or business?
Yes. Additional modules and inverters can be added to your system.  The primary limit is the roof or ground space available for mounting the panels. Addiontally, some utilities offer rebates every year. Thereby, helping you to expand your system to 100% renewable energy.


Will you be putting holes in my roof?
Yes, but don't be alarmed.  Every installation is completed with industry standard flashing and specially designed brackets.  When installed by trained and experienced roofers, the installation is no different than the typical vent pipes found on most roofs.


Can my roof support the weight of the solar array?
Yes. Solar panels and mounting equipment add very little load to your roof. The biggest design concern is with lifting caused by wind.  Therefore, solar panel racking is mounted directly to the rafters of the house using specially designed brackets and lag bolts rated for 90+ mph winds. 


What kind of permits do I need?
We take care of them for you.  Home Star Solar obtains all necessary building and electrical permits for each system.  Home Star Solar ensures the installation is done properly and meets all state and local code requirements.  We will also assist with filing for rebates and tax incentives.



How long does the typical system take to install?
Installation time depends in the size of the system. The typical residential system takes one to three days to complete.


Is solar electricity right for my home or business?
Most likely, yes. With continually rising electric rates, solar electricity is right for almost every home or business. If you own your home and would like to know if solar electricity can help you, contact us today for a free site evaluation and cost-benefit analysis.


Are there rebates or financial incentives available?
Yes. Incentives vary depending on your geographical location and whether you're a small business owner or residential user.  Almost every individual or business that pays income tax is eligible for the Federal Investment Tax Credit for solar systems at 30% of your system's net cost. Then depending on your local utility, you may be eligible for significantly more rebates.  Call us and we can provide a complete detailed analysis of costs and savings.  

Is solar electricity reliable?
It is very reliable. While the photovoltaic effect was discovered in the 1800's, solar electric systems have been used by the space program since 1954. The technology has continually advanced to become very reliable. Consider a few of the following:

• Solar electric systems contain no moving parts-- the entire system is solid state electronics
• Solar electric systems need very little maintenance. Simply keeping the modules free from dirt by letting the rain rinse them or by occasional hosing them off is really all that's needed.
• Solar PV modules come with a 25 year warranty

Why is the Federal government promoting solar electricity?
Because it is a clean, abundant energy source that frees us from fossil fuel dependency. Since the 1970's, the Federal government has encouraged the development of the solar electric industry, to curb our consumption of fossil fuels. While fossil fuels are finite, wasteful and ultimately harmful to the environment, the sun represents a clean and virtually infinite source of energy.  Finally, the current movement to solar power and other renewable energy forms also advances our nation's energy independence

How do we get started?
To start, Home Star Solar will visit your home and perform a site inspection.  Second, we design a system tailored to your needs.  Third, we present you with a proposal.  Once you approve the design, we sign a contract and get started.