Solar FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Going Solar

Varies

It depends on the utility company (co-operatives tend to be more expensive). You could be charged $9-30 a month for Interconnection. Specifically a fee required to keep you connected to the grid.

Varies

Going off the Grid may be an option for some; specifically those who choose battery backup systems (i.e., the Tesla Powerwall.)  Most of our Solar customers choose to stay on the grid.

You are Covered

There is a  “25 Year Solar Performance Warranty”.  Furthermore, there is  “10 Year Workmanship Warranty on the Solar System”. More Importantly we have a “5 Year Roof Warranty”. This covers where the panels are installed are serviced through Go Solar Power.

By the Book

Your county of residence requires permit applications. Interconnection agreements. As well as a Notice of Commencement.  Furthermore, additional document could be required. Depending on where you live.

Notary

Some of these require your notarization. We ask that you work with us as teammates. Thus ensuring a smooth and quick process.  Through your immediate attention with these documents. As well as responsiveness with our communications.

The Engineers

We want you to have the best producing system. Our structural and electrical engineers verify the accuracy of the proposal production. Furthermore, they match the findings from the site survey. As a result we design your final project plans based on this information.

The Unexpected

Unanticipated tree coverage.  Roof damage. In addition to  other variables can affect the timeframe. We strive to provide the highest level of precision.  Notwithstanding accuracy.

Installation

Firstly, we need approval on  permits we have submitted to commence the work.  Our concierge team will contact you the week or two before the intended date of installation. 

The 411

We will give you a rundown of what to expect. There will be a follow-up email/text to confirm the date.  As well as a call from our concierge team on the intended day of installation. 

Completion

Upon completion, our concierge team will do a follow up.  Specifically to go over next steps.  Final Inspection, and interconnection procedures with the Power Company. Lastly, signing the Certificate of Completion (COC).  Our Entire team will also be here to answer any additional questions. 

Go Solar Power

First your County Inspector(s) must approve our installation. your utility company has 30 calendar days to switch your electric meter with its solar replacement, the bi-directional meter. We always advocate on your behalf and do our best to ensure constant communication with the utility company. However, please be aware that similar to county departments, we have no way to tangibly impact the time frame. Please work with us as teammates to check in with your utility company to ensure completion as quickly as possible.

Flip the Switches

The Power Company will install a bi-directional meter.  When this happens, we will walk you through flipping the on the switches.  Once the switches are on, you are up and running!

Warning

Make sure your inverter remains turned off . Before your bi-directional meter is installed.

Transfer It

Most of our loan options are completely transferable to the next homeowner. In fact, your solar  investment can raise the value of your home. Generally  by 15-20%, determined by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Tax Credit

Unlike a tax rebate/refund, where you receive a return on the excess amount of taxes you have paid to the state/federal government in the past year, the federal government provides a solar tax credit (also known as the investment tax credit) that enables you to deduct 30% of the cost of a solar energy system from your taxes, dollar for dollar. As a credit you take the amount directly off your tax payment, rather than as a deduction from your taxable income.

Claim Your Credit

To claim the credit, you must file IRS form 5695 as part of your tax return, you calculate the credit on the form, and then enter the result on your 1040. For example, if you paid $25,000 for the installation of a solar energy system, you qualify for a $7,500 tax credit.

The Numbers

If you were to owe $10,000 in taxes when tax season rolls around, you could apply the entire $7,500 credit and you would owe Uncle Sam the remaining $2,500. In order to qualify for this 30% tax credit, one must be actively paying taxes. Also, the credit does not apply for installations on rental properties. Anyone who installs panels on an existing home, new construction, or second residence / vacation home will be able to utilize the tax credit.