Solar energy, as popular it is right now, still has a lot of misconceptions around it. For instance, a lot of people are still unaware of the role of a solar inverter, and what is it actually used for. So, to quell a lot of this misinformation and to answer some of the questions that seem to be revolving now forever, here is a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about solar energy in general that will help. Everything from how solar panels work to which solar company is the best in UAE will be discussed and answered. Let’s start.

Top solar FAQs, Answered

Following is a list of solar energy FAQs. Let’s look at them and try to answer.

1. What is the life expectancy of a solar energy system?

The life expectancy of a solar energy system depends a lot on the quality of the equipment installed. With that being said, the best equipment is very durable; solar energy systems, on average, have a lifespan of more than two decades. That’s twenty years of solar energy efficiency feeding into your home to energize your lifestyle. Equipment like solar panels, inverters may sometimes need replacing, but ideally, you’re looking at 20+ years of life expectancy.

2. What is the payback period for solar energy systems?

Payback period refers to the time it takes for the savings to break even of the cost incurred upon the purchase and installation of the system. It is called the ‘system paying for itself’, and it depends mostly on the wattage of the system installed. For instance, a 200kW commercial system will cost more and obviously generate more power. Its typical payback period is around 8 years. For your average residential system, the payback period is much shorter. Generally, you’re looking at around 5 years; after which, you will enjoy well more than 20 years of solar efficiency that keeps your bills down and provides uninterrupted energy.

3. How long does it take for a solar energy system to be installed?

The timeframe for solar energy system installation is actually quite short. Your average residential solar energy system will be completely hooked up in less than a week, around three days or so. Commercial solar energy systems are more elaborate, so they might take more time, but even the most power-hungry site will still be up and running in over a month or so.

However, complying and registering with local authorities and if you have net metering, enabling that with your local DISCO will take time. Its important to keep that in mind.

4. How much maintenance is required for solar energy systems?

Maintenance is minimal for solar energy systems. If you have a garden with tall trees, then it is just a matter of wiping the solar panels every now and then to ensure no dust/ dropping builds up on the panels, blocking access to sunlight and reducing efficiency. Aside from that, a scheduled maintenance is carried out once a year to ensure that every part of the system is not only up and running but is also performing up to standards. That’s all.

5. How many solar panels will be needed to power my home?

Again, that depends mostly on the wattage of the system installed, and how much wattage the solar panel itself has. Normally, for residential solar energy systems, which are usually around 5kW, the solar panels will be added to the installation until the 5kW capacity is met. Whether its high- output 600W panels or some other type of panel, the solar energy company responsible for calculating the load and supplying the equipment will let you know in advance how many panels will be installed on the system.

6. Are there any incentives to go solar?

Yes, there are plenty of incentives to go solar. Incentives and tax breaks will be determined by the local government and the overall incentives put in place by which country you are in. Countries where oil consumption is high have special tax breaks to incentivize solar like USA and China. For UAE, going solar has also been incentivized by a number of tax breaks and net metering options. Check out your local energy regulations for more information on solar incentives.

7. How much can I expect to save on my electricity bills?

A lot. Solar energy will reduce your energy bills by around 75 per cent, regardless of how much is consumed. With a hybrid solar energy system, you can even enable net metering and start supplying unused electricity generated by your system to the grid, earning credits that can take your bill to zero.

Going solar with the best company in UAE: Beacon Energy

Beacon Energy, one of the foremost solar energy companies in UAE, has a wide range of solar energy equipment from the top-rated manufacturers across the world, including CanadianSolar, SOFAR Solar, Mibet Energy and the likes. They also boast an extensive supply chain system that ensures timely deliveries. Check them out for exciting prices on solar energy equipment like panels, inverters and more.