Tiffin, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $48,666
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  12.6 kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 113%
Over the next 30 years, this 12.6 kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 113 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 11 tons of coal, 2,038 trees planted or driving a car 196,885 miles.

Marietta, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $49,751
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  13 kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 80%
Over the next 30 years, this 13kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 80 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 8 tons of coal, 1,626trees planted or driving a car 157,055 miles.

FranklinWH

As more homeowners look for more grid independence, FranklinWH stands out with its intelligent, scalable, and future-proof energy solution. Designed to meet your evolving energy needs, FranklinWH offers a thorough home energy system that adapts as your needs grow.

What is FranklinWH?

FranklinWH is a fully integrated home energy management system that connects solar, battery storage, grid power, generators, and EV charging. Franklin is designed for long-term reliability with continuous battery backup during outages and peak demand times – if you’re looking to reduce your reliance on the grid and future-proof your home, FranklinWH is a great choice.

aPower 2 Battery

The aPower2 battery has a high capacity with 15 kWh of storage and 10 kW continuous output. The aPower 2 can easily power large appliances and essential loads at the same time, even during blackouts. It’s built with safe lithium iron phosphate and wrapped in a weatherproof design; it’s quiet, durable, and dependable, with a 15-year warranty and over 10,000 charge cycles.

Power that can grow with you

If you need more power, that’s not a problem with FranklinWH – they make it easy to expand. With FranklinWH, you can add up to 15 aPower 2 batteries, which total up to 225 kWh. FranklinWH can handle it all, large homes, air conditioning, EVs, expanding solar systems, etc. You can even upgrade your current system, making it perfect for families planning to expand their energy capacity as their needs grow.

Why Franklin outperforms other brands

  • Battery stacking: Each aPower2 increases the system output, allowing for enhanced energy capacity as needed.
  • Generous storage: 15 kWh per battery and an extra 1 kWh reserved for system support, FranklinWH delivers more storage for your home’s energy needs
  • Simple expansion: Expand your system without adding additional inverters
  • FranklinWH handles larger systems, meeting the energy demands of bigger homes and growing households, making it perfect for large homes.

Smart Load Management

FranklinWH has three smart circuits that independently control critical and non-critical loads, it automatically starts/stops high-energy devices during an outage, there’s even a customizable circuit for EV charging, and it extends your battery life by managing load priorities.

Additional Features that make FranklinWH great

  • Black start capabilities: automatically restart your solar system after a long outage
  • Visual LED state of Charge: Customizable lighting, and it gives you a visual on storage volume.
  • No Cycle limit warranty: 15-year warranty based on energy instead of cycles
  • AC coupling Support: Perfect for retrofits and larger loads
  • PV inverter agnostic: Works with existing solar inverters
  • Quiet: 67% quieter than other home management systems, convection cooled for near-silent operation near living spaces
  • Heat: It’s designed to perform in high-temperature conditions

 

FranklinWH is a complete, future-ready, battery backup system built to adapt, expand, and deliver peace of mind. Whether you’re going solar, expanding your current system, looking to enhance your home’s resilience, or upgrading for EV readiness, Franklin WH offers a smarter, quieter, more powerful solution.

 

 

Solar Myths

Solar has become one of the most promising and sustainable solutions for homeowners looking to lower their energy costs and minimize their environmental impact.  Although solar is quite popular, several myths still exist about going solar – misconceptions that can discourage people from making the switch. Here are some common solar myths.

Myth #1 – Solar doesn’t work when it is raining

People can utilize solar in almost any environment, including rain and snow, because the sun still reaches the Earth. Battery backup is another solution, providing energy at night and when the sun’s not shining.

Myth #2 – Solar is too expensive

While cost varies for solar, you don’t have to pay it all upfront if you don’t have the means to do so, many companies, including Kokosing Solar, offer financing options. One of our solar experts will be happy to go over that with you during a consultation. Financing will allow you to pay for your system over time.

There are also local, state, and federal incentives that you can take advantage of to offset the total cost.

Myth #3 – Solar panels are too difficult to maintain

Solar panels require low maintenance; rain usually washes off dirt and debris, keeping them performing at their best.

You may need occasional inspections and cleaning, but solar panels require minimal upkeep.

Myth #4 – Solar Panels decrease the value of a home

Solar panels do not decrease the value of your home: in fact, they do the opposite! Homes with solar panels often have higher resale values because some buyers seek energy savings and environmental benefits. Homes with solar installations tend to sell faster and for higher prices compared to homes without. The home values may increase depending on the location, size of the system, and the local real estate market. Overall, people see solar panels as a home improvement.

Myth #5 – Free Solar from the Government 

If you think free solar sounds too good to be true, that’s because it is! Although there are government incentives out there, nothing will cover your system’s expenses entirely. If someone claims your solar will be free, they’re likely trying to scam you or win your business at any cost.

Misleading ads claim local grant programs for homeowners, but solar has never been free—you’ll always pay for something.

Myth #6 – Going Solar is going Off-Grid

In most cases, you’re not going off-grid. If you live in a residential area, you will likely use a grid-tied system. This means you’re connected to the grid, earning credits for excess energy sent back, which can offset electricity costs at night or on cloudy days, while still having a backup power source when your panels aren’t producing enough energy.

Myth #7 – Solar is too complicated

Although professionals handle the setup, solar panels use straightforward technology and aren’t overly complicated. A professional will evaluate your roof’s condition, angle, and sunlight exposure to determine if solar panels are a good fit, then design a system tailored to your energy needs and roof.  Your installer will take care of all the permits and approvals for local authorities or utility companies. Lastly, technicians will mount the panels, connect the system to your electrical panel, and ensure they integrate it safely with the grid. Then, the utility company will activate your system.

Myth #8 – Solar is unreliable

Many people believe energy is unreliable because the sun doesn’t shine 24/7, while this is true, solar can pair with energy storage systems that allow homeowners to store excess energy during sunny periods and use it on cloudy days. Solar is far from unreliable, with advancements in energy storage and integration into the grid, solar provides a stable and continuous energy supply.

In conclusion, solar energy provides a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for homeowners looking to cut energy bills and reduce their environmental impact. Advances in technology and available incentives have debunked myths about solar being expensive, hard to maintain, or unreliable. With grid-tied systems and low-maintenance panels, solar is a practical choice for nearly any home. Financing, tax incentives, and energy storage options make going solar more accessible than many believe.

Best Type of Roof for Solar Panels

When you first inquire about solar, one of the first questions you’ll be asked is “What type of roof do you have?” While solar can be installed on most roof types, some are better suited for solar than others, and certain roofing materials may be best to avoid solar entirely.

Asphalt Shingle Roof

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material and the best material for installing solar panels – because of their commonness, this roofing material has the largest range of equipment for installers. These various options for equipment reduce the need for specialized parts, saving money on labor and parts, and reducing your project costs. Asphalt shingles are usually the most affordable roofing type, expecting to last 15-25 years, often lasting most if not all of your system’s life.

Metal Roof

Metal roofing is an excellent material for solar installations. Although they are on the pricy side, they have a very long life, making them a great pair for the 20–30-year life span of your solar system. Metal roofs with standing seams make installation easy, providing a smooth attachment process. Metal roofing offers the added benefit of being eco-friendly as manufacturers make it from recycled materials. It also reflects a good amount of sunlight that the panels don’t absorb, creating a cooling effect that can increase your system’s efficiency

Slate/Tile Roof

Although you can install solar on slate/tile roofs, it’s not the best option. It’s a difficult installation that requires specialized mounting systems to prevent damage to the brittle tiles. Without these specialized mountings, you run a high risk of leaks and cracks. Installation can be more expensive because of the delicacy of the material and the need for experienced installers. While Kokosing Solar is a trusted experienced installer backed by 25 years of experience, tile roofing is on our hard-no list as we do not want to take the risk of cracking the roofing material.

Tar and Gravel Roof

Tar and Gravel roofs work very well for solar installations, as they’re supportive, and the gravel reflects sunlight making them energy efficient. This material of roofing lasts 20-30 years, making it a great fit for the lifespan of a solar system. You can easily patch and repair tar and gravel roofs if damage occurs. Since these roofs are typically flat, you’ll likely need extra mounting hardware to pitch your panels at the optimal angle. Although this will increase the cost, it provides the best orientation for your solar system, potentially offering greater long-term savings.

Do I Need to Replace my Roof to go Solar?

Before your solar installation, the need for roof replacement ultimately depends on your roof’s age and material. If your roof is aging, damaged, or unable to support the weight of the solar panels, it’s wise to get a roof replacement or repair before installation.

Why is it important to have a consultation, rather than just receiving a quote?

We understand that you’re busy and meeting with another company isn’t always appealing, especially If you’ve been through a few solar consultations already. However, solar installation is a big investment, and we find that it’s very necessary to meet with our potential clients. Tailored Design to Meet Your Goals Although we are able to give you a rough ballpark, we don’t do quick pricing because our installations are site specific and custom to the customer’s goals and budget. Unlike one-size-fits-all systems, we customize every solar project to align with each client’s unique vision and goals. These are critical factors to consider:
  1. Available roof space for solar – no dormers or chimneys and the roof orientation.
  2. We analyze your current electric bill for your annual consumption. This will help us indicate how many panels would be needed to offset your consumption.
  3. Your personal goals and budget on this project – is having power during an outage your key goal? System costs will vary as your system will need a battery if this is the case.
Clear and Transparent Process Solar has a lot of moving parts, and it’s essential that we cover the basics of how it works to ensure that your system is built for the long run. We want to make sure that you understand everything that comes along with a solar installation. We do not auto generate quotes, and each quote is specific to the site and goals of the customer, and area they live in since different areas have differences in permitting and zoning requirements.   Commitment to Client Satisfaction We prioritize transparency to avoid surprises. It’s important for us to meet with the customer to get a better understanding of their goals and to ask specific questions about their site. We take a consultative approach vs. high pressure selling because we want our customers to be well informed and comfortable about the decision they’re making and the system they’re purchasing when going solar. How can you size my system without seeing my home? If you’re wondering how we can size you a system and quote you without seeing your home it’s because our solar consultants have a lot of sophisticated software that helps them calculate shade and sun angles, size of the roof and capacity of panels your home is able to have. Once there is a signed contract, we do send our team out to confirm that initial sketch for our engineering team. How does the consultation work? After sending in the information needed – we will get you booked for a Microsoft Teams meeting with the consultant in your area where they will go over the price and production and answer any questions that you may have.

Solar Leasing Vs Buying

Are you interested in Solar, but you’re stuck between buying and leasing your system? Installing Solar on your home is a big commitment with a lot of moving parts. When it comes to deciding, there are multiple aspects to consider but, the most important thing to remember is to do what’s best for you and your family.

How does Solar Leasing Work?

Solar leasing works by having a third-party solar company own, install, and maintain the system on your property. With this exchange, the homeowner will pay the company a monthly fee for the energy that the solar panels generate. Solar Leasing can allow homeowners to go solar with as little as $0 down, essentially eliminating upfront installation costs, making solar leasing one of the most popular ways to make the switch to solar. Solar leasing makes solar more attainable for customers who may not have the cash upfront. With the cost of solar falling over time, leasing may not be the most appealing or necessary option. Although the panels will be installed on the home, the homeowner won’t own them. The leasing company owns the panels, and the homeowner will pay a monthly fee to use them – similar to leasing a car, where you essentially rent the vehicle. In some cases, there might be a buyout option but be sure to read and understand your lease agreement/ buyout options.

Advantages of Solar Leasing

  • Low to no upfront costs: Solar leasing often requires you to pay little to no down payment, this makes solar more accessible to those who may not have the money for upfront cost.
  • No maintenance responsibility: The leasing company will handle all maintenance and repairs, and the homeowner doesn’t have to worry about the health of the system.

Drawback of Solar Leasing 

  • Owning vs Renting: The solar system will be owned by the leasing company, not the homeowner. You’re basically renting the system – there’s no equity in it.
  • Unpredictable monthly payments: Many solar leases include an escalator, which means your payments may increase over time which can decrease long-term savings.

Monthly Payments for Leasing and Buying Solar

When people decide to buy their solar systems, they’re more than likely to choose to finance the system. At Kokosing Solar, we offer $0 down with a fixed payment and no pre-payment penalty. With this choice, the payment for each month is always the same, making the payments predictable for planning and there are no surprises with different charges. As for leasing, your monthly payment may look a little different. When you’re under a lease contract, you can start out with a lower monthly payment but as time goes on, there’s a high chance that your lease contains an escalator that will increase your payment by at least 2.9% every year. This escalator can really add up to a point where leasing might not be worth it.

Solar Tax Credit

A perk of buying your solar system rather than leasing is the federal solar tax credit, this tax credit allows you to claim 30% of the total cost of your installation – this significantly reduces the cost of making the switch to renewable energy for your home. On the other hand, if you lease your solar system, you’re ineligible to claim this tax credit. The 30% savings will go to the owner of the panels, the leasing company.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home and Budget

In conclusion, deciding whether to lease or buy solar panels depends on your financial situation, long-term goals, and your preferences. Leasing may be a good option for homeowners who don’t have the upfront cost but still want the benefits of going solar. However, when you buy your system, you’re looking at better long-term savings and increased ownership benefits, including tax incentives and a higher property value. Consulting with a professional solar company, like Kokosing Solar can help you better understand your options and make an informed decision based on your needs.

Roseville, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $77,608
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  15.39kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 110%
Over the next 30 years, this 15.39kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 110 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 11 tons of coal, 2,026 trees planted or driving a car 195,711 miles.

Powell, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $148,901
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  16.8kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 113%
Over the next 30 years, this 16.8kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 113 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 12 tons of coal, 2,389 trees planted or driving a car 230,767 miles.

Worthington, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $55,974
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  25.20kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 53%
  • x2 Tesla Powerwall 3 units 
Over the next 30 years, this 25.20kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 53 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 8 tons of coal, 1,567 trees planted or driving a car 151,402 miles.

New Carlisle, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $100,060
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  13.0kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 117%
Over the next 30 years, this 13.0kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 117 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 10 tons of coal, 1,958 trees planted or driving a car 189,103 miles.

Westlake, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $134,449
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  17.22kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 119%
Over the next 30 years, this 17.22kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 129 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 13 tons of coal, 2,582 trees planted or driving a car 249,402 miles.

Powell, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $128,985
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  11.34kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 103%
Over the next 30 years, this 11.34kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 103 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 10 tons of coal, 1,911 trees planted or driving a car 184,581 miles.

Logan, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $74,445
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  14.28kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 61%
  • 1 Tesla Powerwall 3 unit 
Over the next 30 years, this 14.28kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 61 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 11 tons of coal, 2,189 trees planted or driving a car 211,403 miles.

Albany, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $51,604
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  20.16kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 77%
  • x2 Tesla Powerwall 3 units 
Over the next 30 years, this 20.16 kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 77 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 17 tons of coal, 3,317 trees planted or driving a car 320,429 miles.

Dublin, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $198,302
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  20.58kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 83%

Over the next 30 years, this 20.58kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 83 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 16 tons of coal, 3,110 trees planted or driving a car 300,367 miles.

Columbus, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $122,465
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  18.9 kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 92%
  • x2 Tesla Powerwall 3 units 
Over the next 30 years, this 18.9kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 92 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 12 tons of coal, 2,255 trees planted or driving a car 217,841 miles.

Solar Energy Through The Seasons


When most people think of solar energy, they think of sunny skies and warm temperatures. There is a common misconception that this is the only time that solar energy can be functional and at its best. Solar panels can generate electricity year-round, no matter what the temperature or season. Solar panels are meant to capture sunlight and convert electricity, but their efficiency can change significantly with the seasons. Understanding these changes is important for optimizing energy production.

Solar during the winter season

Interestingly, cold temperatures tend to improve solar panel production. Cold temperatures can increase the efficiency of the panel’s photovoltaic cells, allowing them to generate more electricity than in the scorching summer heat.

Although the cold temperature works in Solar’s favor, the shorter days do not. These shorter days mean fewer hours of sunlight during the winter season. This will limit the time your solar panels take to generate electricity, which means losing an opportunity for your panels to obtain usable energy.

Winter can also mean a lot of cloudy days, which can reduce your solar panel’s output. Clouds can block direct sunlight, decreasing your energy generation. Another thing that can block direct sunlight is snow, though this won’t impact production unless heavy snow accumulates. A light snowfall will have little to no effect on production as the panels are designed in a way that snow would slide off.

Solar during the Spring Season

As we move into spring, our days become longer, making for increased solar exposure and energy production. Another thing that comes along with spring is spring cleaning, although solar panels are generally self-cleaning, spring is a good time for cleaning and checking for any damage.

Spring also offers mild temperatures which will help minimize your panel’s efficiency and with the longer days and the movement into summer, households will start using more energy, making your panels more beneficial.

Solar during the Summer season

Solar has its peak production during the summer, summer has the longest days and the highest sun angle than other seasons, making for increased solar energy production. The Summer season brings clearer, sunny days, meaning fewer clouds to block the sun, this is ideal for solar panel production. Summer is also when energy bills are at their peak. Homes are using more electricity and increasing their consumption. Solar panels can help offset this increased demand, reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering your electricity cost.

Solar during the Fall Season

Just like the winter season, Fall brings cooler temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and increased cloud coverage. In the fall, the sun’s angle changes making the sun lower in the sky compared to the summer months. This can affect the efficiency of your panels and how much sunlight they are able to capture. Ensuring your panels are mounted at an optimal angle to capture more of the sun’s rays can help maximize energy production during the fall, this is why choosing a trustworthy installer is important.

In conclusion, solar panels can be highly effective throughout the whole year. Each season brings its own set of challenges and advantages. Sunny warmer weather may seem like the optimal time for solar but it is important to know that solar panels will perform well in various conditions.

Understanding how solar panels will respond to the seasonal change will allow you to optimize your energy production and take full advantage of this renewable energy source, all year around. By choosing a trustworthy installer, solar will continue to provide a sustainable, cost-saving benefit throughout every season.

Roof replacement in connection with solar

Before starting the process of a solar installation, let’s take a look at your roof. Your roof is one of the most important aspects when it comes to solar. If your roof is aging, damaged, or unable to support the weight of the solar panels, it’s wise to get a roof replacement or repair. 

In the long run, inspecting your roof and seeing if you need to replace it will save you the hassle of having to replace it after your solar has already been installed – this will also save you from the cost of other potential damages.

Why is your roof so important?

Although there are other places around your home where solar can be installed, like the ground or carports. However, the majority of the time, solar is installed on your roof.

What many homeowners don’t realize is that there is more that goes into a roof than tiles and shingles. A standard roof consists of a roof truss, decking, insulation, ice and water barrier, underlayment, wood frame, and shingles or tiles. A lot more than you probably thought.

With just one of these many layers damaged, it puts a strain on your entire system. Making it a bad idea for solar installation. if this is the case, you may need a roof replacement.

Identifying roof damage

One of the easiest things to identify in a damaged roof is loose or broken tiles.

This is something that Is eventually going to happen to your roof, it’s just normal wear and tear with age. When a roof component breaks down, it exposes parts of your roof to potential water damage, additionally, standing water can cause further damage.

A roof is designed to shunt water off of its surface so if you notice any standing water on your roof, this probably means that something on your roof isn’t properly working. Punctures and cracks are another type of damage that can occur, this can happen with any type of trauma or force to your roof.

Lastly, structural damage. This only happens on rare occasions. This change in your roof structure can lead to a collapse, putting you and your family at risk.

Why roof age matters

By Installing solar panels on an older roof, your cost will increase. If you go ahead with the installation, you’ll likely have to pay the contractor, even more, to remove the panels later on. The average life span for a roof is about 20 years old, this doesn’t mean push it to the limit and install solar on your 20-year-old roof. Solar panels should never be installed on a roof that is older than 15 years old, some signs to look for in an aging roof is:

  • Curling shingles
  • Missing shingles
  • Rotting roof
  • Excessive growth on the roof
  • Streaks and decolorization

Since the solar panel lifespan will outweigh your roof, the most ideal situation is to install a new roof prior to installation.

Benefits of Roof Replacement

Replacing your roof means improving your solar panel security. When you get things like high winds and natural disasters – this is where the newly replaced roof will come in handy. Your roof is responsible for protecting your panels, so installing on an older roof is just setting your solar system up for failure. Newly replaced roofs can withstand storms and other movement much better than older, worn-down roofs.

With today’s new roofing materials and designs, it can increase the energy efficiency of your home. The current shingles on the market outperform older materials and designs by keeping your home dry, repelling heat, and withsanding harsh weather conditions.

A new roof that repels heat can help prevent excess heat from reaching your HVAC system. Having extra heat on your HVAC puts a lot of stress on your PV device. Installing a new roof will help you meet your residential energy demands and limit how much you rely on your grid, essentially saving you money over time.

Stability is important when it comes to your roof and its safety. You’ll need a stable roof due to the weight of solar panels. Additionally, having that new roof can withstand excess weight, and prevent leaks, mold, and pests.

Roof replacement vs repairing

Make sure you’re truly in need of a full replacement rather than a repair. if your roof is younger than 15 years old and is in good condition, you might only need a minor repair. However, if your roof is nearing the 20-25-year mark and requires a significant repair, consider a full replacement. A replacement can be costly but it will increase your home’s value and prepare you for a successful solar installation.

In conclusion, your roof Is a very important part of your home especially if you want solar. Roof replacement is not only good for the production of your PV panels but for your and your family’s safety as well. Be sure to identify any damage that your roof may have before considering installing solar. Consider the age of your roof before piling on all of the weight that comes with solar installation. A roof replacement can be very beneficial to your home and solar system. Before jumping right into a full replacement, be sure to check out if you just need a replacement. This can end up saving you a lot of money.

 

Does solar work when the utility grid is down?

Solar energy works with the grid, using solar panels to generate electricity from sunlight and sending excess back to the utility grid. 

Grid-tied solar energy systems are the most common type of solar panel system: these systems connect directly to the utility grid and you can operate with or without battery backup equipment.

With the National Electric Code, a grid-tied solar system has to turn off every time the grid goes down. 

Even with solar panels, you aren’t guaranteed power during a grid outage. However, if you combine your system with battery storage, you can use your stored energy during an outage

Grid-Tied Solar and Off-Grid Solar

A grid-tied solar system means your property connects to your local power company’s line, allowing you to use solar energy to offset your electricity bill, while still relying on the company’s service.  

A grid-tied system is a great way to reduce your electric bill. 

An off-grid solar system is a self-contained energy system that independently produces and stores electricity from the sun, it uses solar panels to generate power – this power is transferred to a battery by a charger controller.

Can Kokosing Solar take me off-grid?

Unfortunately, Kokosing Solar can’t take you completely off-grid, but we can get you close. 

At this time Kokosing Solar does our best work installing full turnkey, grid-interactive solar energy systems. We do not install off-grid systems and do not recommend them if you are already connected to the grid. Off-grid systems are a whole different type of engineering and installation. 

You need to carefully engineer the solar system and battery bank to ensure they are large enough to fully support your loads at all times and in all seasons. Off-grid systems also require a generator to keep the batteries charged when the sun can’t, either at night or in the winter when there is less sun. With off-grid, you can expect your generator to run a lot. You also need to manage your loads carefully and avoid running multiple high-demand appliances, like the dryer, dishwasher, and TV, at the same time.

A grid-tied system provides energy from the solar panels during peak sunlight hours, the rest of the electricity will come from the grid. An off-grid system has no access to the grid, limiting your energy storage and production capabilities.   

A grid-tied system with a battery backup will offer self-reliance on days when the grid is down, at nighttime, and on days with little sunlight.

Pairing with a solar battery

Another option that ensures access to electricity when the grid is down is a grid-tied system with a battery backup

Although more expensive, a solar battery system can help you through outages. 

Solar panels alone won’t work during a grid outage. But, paired with batteries, they will.  When you pair batteries with a solar system, solar panels send the electricity they produce to your house, the grid, or a storage device. 

Grid-connected systems with and without energy storage

A pro that comes with having a grid-connected solar system is the cost savings. You can potentially save money by spending less on power and less dependency on the grid. 

A grid-connected system is a reliable power supply. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce your reliance on the utility grid, which can lead to lower energy bills. A grid-connected system is reliable and provides continuous power, as long as the grid is up and running.

In conclusion, grid-tied solar systems are a cost-effective way to lower utility bills, but they don’t provide power during an outage. 

If this is essential to you, adding battery backup to your grid-tied system is an option. If you seek complete independence, an off-grid solution is your best fit.

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