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Solar Rooftop Systems: All You Need To Know

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India is home to more than a billion people with huge energy needs. But, when it comes to renewables, the country has set some ambitious targets over the next decade. Do you know ‘Indian renewable energy sector is the fourth most attractive renewable energy market in the world?’ And we feel proud of it! However, harnessing the energy present in nature to meet everyone’s demands is quite a challenge. Because, knowing the benefits of harnessing solar power is not enough. You need to know more about the ‘Solar Rooftop System’, its types and its respective functionality.

1. Types of solar rooftops: 

Stand-alone solar rooftops

These kinds of solar panels are not connected to the grid; instead, they work on diesel generator or batteries.

The solar power generated from the rooftop solar system charges the battery which is then used to power various applications. This system is suitable for a place that faces frequent power cut and breakdowns.

Grid-tied solar rooftops: 

The on-grid system has slightly different functionality. In this case, the rooftop solar system is integrated with the main grid supply. This system allows power to be used from the grid supply only when the rooftop solar system is unable to supply the required power. 

Related Read: Grid Connected Solar PV System: An Overview

Hybrid rooftops: 

A hybrid solar system gives the advantages of both- grid-tied system and on-grid system. This system is connected to the grid as well as the batteries that store power. Hybrid solar solutions supply continuous power and are suitable for locations where the restricted power consumption is less than the generated energy.

2. Materials used in making solar panels?

Solar panels are usually made using key components like silicon, metal, and glass. And the standard panels are either made from monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon.

3. Solar rooftops are eco-friendly:

While generating energy, the solar panels of the rooftop do not release any kind of harmful greenhouse gases; thus, marking them as a ‘green’ energy.

4. The cost:

Costing of a solar rooftop system completely depends on the size, type, location and quality of the product. The cost of 1kWp solar rooftop PV project could be around Rs.50,000 (including installation but excluding the cost of batteries).

Note: kWp stands for kilowatt ‘peak’ of a system. It is the peak power of a solar PV system.

5. Subsidy offered by the Government:

According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the Central Government pays 30% of the benchmarked installation cost for rooftop PV systems.

Other benefits offered by the government for installing a rooftop PV system:

In addition to the subsidy, people can avail various other benefits by installing a rooftop solar system:

  • Those planning to install rooftop PV systems can avail priority sector loans of up to 10 lakhs from nationalized banks. This loan shall fall under the category of home loan or home improvement loan.
  • Consumers will be eligible for generation-based incentives and will receive Rs. 2 per unit of electricity generated.

6. Net Metering

Net Metering is a system that gives solar energy owners credits for the power that they add to the grid. Sometimes solar panels might generate excess power. In this case, the surplus power is sent back to the grid for later use.

Related Read: What is Net Metering and How it Works?

Bottom Line:

Installing solar panels for electricity is always a great idea. The electricity you generate from solar energy is green and clean. Moreover, harnessing the power of solar decreases the carbon emissions, this ultimately reduces the dependency on the fossil fuels.

Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote or call us at +91 772-199-4477

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10 Ways to Save Electricity This Summer

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The summer has already approached, and as the mercury rises, the electricity bills of our houses are also bound to shoot high. The weather outside is growing hotter, and your home air conditioning system is your only refuge. And, we all know AC and cooler can run up your energy bills high unless you adopt a few smart energy-saving habits. Another way to combat this is- by reducing your electricity consumption. And here’s how our 10 easy ways can help you save electricity this summer.

1. Go Solar:

With around 360 days of sunshine every year, India has one of the best conditions in the world to harness solar energy. Installing a solar rooftop system is a great way to generate clean and renewable electricity. It can be installed on the rooftop, which is a one-time investment plan. So, if you wish to cut your energy savings by more than 75%, then this is one of the best options to consider.

Related Read: 5 Benefits of Solar Energy to the Environment

2. Turn off unnecessary appliances:

Turning off home appliances is not really an “energy saver” technique as you might think it to be. Many modern electronics use standby power when not in use — like modern TVs, computers, and telephone charges. When you’re done charging your phone or watching TV, unplug those devices completely.

3. Use Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs:

We assume you must have seen a lot of advertisements for CFL light bulbs before. But have you thought of using it? Well, if not then we suggest you do so. CFL light bulbs use 75% less electricity than their incandescent counterparts. CFL light bulbs cost more upfront, but the financial payback is 100% worth it.

4. Plant shrubs and trees in your surrounding:

Planting trees and shrubs next to your home can further boost your home’s insulation. By strategically placing the plants a few feet away from your house, you can shield your family against both cold and hot temperatures.

5. Insulate your home properly:

During summers, you need to ensure that you keep hot air out and cool air in. Take some time to inspect your home for air leaks and poor insulation; also, cover your windows with light-coloured cotton curtains. This helps as it is one of the best ways to make sure your AC units aren’t working overtime.

6. Install a smart thermostat:

Before you plan to install a thermostat, let’s first understand what it is. A thermostat is a device that tries to maintain the temperature of your room. And by installing a “smart” thermostat, you can program your climate control system to regulate inside temperatures only when necessary. This way, you can save money by automating the air conditioner.

7. Seal all the leaks of windows and doorways:

Now, if we assume that you are using a thermostat in your home, you might want to take note of an important thing here. If your home is not properly sealed then your thermostat is regulating the temperature of the entire world, like literally. And the worst part is- you’re paying for it. Be sure to seal all the leaks, this includes- around the windows, doors, vents, and any other entrances into your home.

8. Air-dry your clothes:

Using dryers do no harm, but surely adds up a lot to the electricity bill. Looking at an environmental side of it- Dryers are responsible for emitting tons of carbon dioxide annually. Use a clothesline or portable rack to air-dry wet laundry instead of using dryers that run on electricity.

9. Keep your vents and windows open:

In the summer, open your windows early in the morning (between 5.00 to 8.00 am), and later in the evening (between 7.00 to 10.00 pm). You can also create a breeze inside your home by opening your windows at opposite ends; this will ensure cross ventilation. 

10. Put more clothes in the washing machine:

When using larger appliances, do the best to use them by loading them to its fullest capacity. This means, when you are doing washing clothes, don’t add only 3-4 clothes at once; try to add more clothes in the single wash.

Bottom line:

Let the summer be a hot one, but make sure it doesn’t cost heavy on your pockets. Apply these summer energy saving tips for your home as this will help to beat the heat without burning your pockets! Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote or call us at +91 772-199-4477.