Installing Solar Panels
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Is it Worth Installing Solar Panels?

March 24, 2020 No Comments

We all get a sense of fright while scanning through the electricity bill. In fact, at back-of-the-mind, we all hope the digits to be magically lesser in numbers than the previous ones. But that never happens, and our hopes only go the despair!

Well, everyone wants to reduce down the money they spent on electricity. However, only a few get into action and opt for alternative solutions. And those who are using the alternative solutions are definitely the ones who are harnessing the power of solar energy, to its fullest.

‘Is it worth installing a solar panel?’ might cross your mind, and can perhaps leave you bewildered. Here we are- to help you sort out with your queries and to help you understand the ‘power’ and ‘worth’ of solar energy.

Solar power can be harnessed and converted to usable energy using photovoltaic or solar thermal collectors. Although solar energy only accounts for a small amount of overall global energy use, the cost of installing solar panels is so affordable which means that more and more people from different regions can take advantage of solar energy.

The main benefit of solar energy is that it does not produce any pollutants and is one of the cleanest sources of energy. It is a renewable source of energy, requires low maintenance and is easy to install.

Related Read: 5 Benefits of Solar Energy to the Environment

Is it worth installing a solar system compared to electricity?

Hydroelectric and thermal power plants are the main source of electricity in India. Perhaps, the production comes at the cost of consuming a lot of non-renewable energy like- coal, gas, oil, etc. If solar panels are compared to the conventional way of producing electricity, they have a great advantage over the former. They can give a long time energy solution for many of our daily requirements. Research says that a rooftop solar panel reduces greenhouse gas emissions and lowers electricity costs. And we couldn’t agree more!

Below listed are the features of having solar panels installed at home. The features- that will explain how installing solar panels can be light and easy in your pocket!

1. Drastic reduction in electricity bill

As the benefits of putting solar panels today will carry forward to the next 25 years, any solar investment in your home will immediately increase the valuation of your home. With IRR’s of 9% and above from smaller systems to 20% on bigger systems, the payback periods on your investments could be from 5 years to 9 years.

2. Guaranteed performance:

Solar panel manufacturers include 20-to-25 years warranty (also known as a performance guarantee) with their solar panels. The industry standard ensures 80% performance after 25 years.

The real lifespan of solar panels is much longer – your solar panels will likely generate a good amount of electricity 30-40 years down the line.

3. Reduce the heat trap to your home:

A study published in Solar Journal found out that the direct roof is 5 degrees Fahrenheit cooler under solar panels than under an open terrace.

How much does the solar panel system cost?

The cost of buying a solar panel depends on the company you choose to buy from. Moreover, installation cost varies from company to company.

While less-pricey solar panels might feel like the easiest way to save some cash, your total 20-year savings will often be higher if you invest in good-quality equipment. It’s worth taking some time to review all of your equipment options and find the right combination of price and quality for your home. Don’t forget to research the solar incentives and rebates available where you live; they can reduce your net cost by 50 % or even more. 

Bottom line:

Solar panels are one of the best return-on-investment one can choose to opt for. It is a well-thought-of plan to save your money, loads of money!

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

 

Grid Connected Solar PV
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Grid Connected Solar PV System: An Overview

February 28, 2020 No Comments

Solar PV technology is used for generating electricity from solar energy. A grid connected solar Photovoltaic system is simply a solar energy panel system that is connected to the main power supply (called the “grid”). The user of this system uses electricity from both the solar panel system as well as the electrical grid. This enables the user to draw energy from grid during emergencies such as on a cloudy day or during the night. Similarly, during power cut, when power supply is shut, electricity can be drawn from the solar panel system!

Solar Systems have been in India since quite some time now. But for a long time, it was not economically feasible for most Indians to take benefit from. There has been a drop in the prices of solar PV in the last few years, due to significant implementations made by Government of India. Since then, solar PV technology has become quite a lucrative option for saving electricity!

Related Read: 5 Financial Benefits of Solar Energy

How do Grid Connected Solar Rooftop Systems work?

Grid Connected Solar Rooftop Systems are often rooftop based and are integrated into buildings.

The grid connected solar system generally has four basic components:

  • the solar photovoltaic panels
  • the loads like TV, fan, A.C. etc
  • a solar inverter,
  • and a grid/ main power supply.

In a building, before connecting solar panels, the grid is the only source of power & all the ‘loads’ of the building are drawing electricity from it.

The working of the solar PV system can be explained through five different scenarios:

1. When solar generation is equal to the load requirement–

The loads are completely run by solar power. Though, the grid is available but its power is not utilised.

2. When solar generation is more than the ‘load’ requirement–

The generated solar power will support the existing load first & the excess will be sent back to the grid. This is called as ‘export to the GRID’.

3. When solar generation is less as compared to the load’s requirement–

All solar power will get self-consumed by the loads. Meanwhile, the grid will join to support the excess load demand.

4. When solar generation is not taking place–

Typically during night time, when no solar energy can be produced, the grid can supply electricity to meet the load’s requirements. This is called as ‘import from the GRID’.    

5. In absence of the GRID–

During a power cut, the solar inverter shuts down. This is for the safety of the staff working on the grid for maintenance.

Once, a solar PV system is installed on the rooftop of a building, the power required by the ‘loads’ is supplied by the solar panels or in some cases from panels as well as the grid, as explained above.

Related Read: What is Solar Panel and How Does it Work?

Make sure that your roofs are strong enough to hold panel’s weight:

Typically solar panels are quite light, but once you have decided the place to install solar PV, you need to make sure that the roof can handle the solar PV system. If you have old asbestos sheets, you may want to change them with long-lasting tin sheets. Your roof should be sturdy enough to hold the panels. If your roof is quite high and is windy, you need to ensure the setup with your installer and confirm if the installation is safe enough.

So what is the maintenance required for such a system?

As batteries gets eliminated, the maintenance required for such systems is quite low. The major maintenance activity would be to clean the solar panels regularly, so that dust doesn’t accumulate on them.

Some electrical components may get some wear and tear and might need fixes. Usually, it is recommended to go for high quality components so that you can just fit and forget the system and it keeps generating electricity for you.

To give a rough idea, maintenance cost is typically assumed to be 0.5% annually.

Bottom line:

The option of Solar PV Rooftop “Grid Connected” system looks quite lucrative for places with a fairly regular and continuous supply of electricity. A majority of such places in the country are cities with higher tariffs and reliable electricity supply. It can be a great option to not only reduce the electricity bills, but also to generate power that can be routed to places which have a shortage of electricity.

If you do have one such place in mind where you can install the system, do give a try to solar PV rooftop “Grid Connected” system!

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

Solar Pros and Cons
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What are the Pros and Cons of Solar Energy?

January 24, 2020 No Comments

If you are considering going for solar installation, you have probably seen tons of spammy ads claiming the best quality solar to your doorstep convincing why should you opt for solar panels at your place. 

To make the right decision for your property, you need to see the pros and cons of opting the solar pv installation at your place. Read what all the advantages and disadvantages of going to rooftop solar energy production.

Pros/Advantages of opting Solar Panel:

Lower your electricity bill.

Today, solar energy is more affordable than any other renewable source of energy. It offers a long term lower energy cost where solar panel provides a comfortable and hassle-free source of energy to your house. Let the solar energy power your home by generating electricity with the help of PV cells. Solar energy enables you to cut the monthly electricity by 60 percent and return the excessive energy to the grid, which can result in credit-return from grid company.

Increases your property value.

Recent estate statistics show that the house which has solar connection have more property value than other homes. It can be beneficial when it comes to selling or leasing your property to someone; you can demand a better amount for your property with the solar connection.

Related Read: How Installing Solar Panels Boost Home Value

Environmental friendly.

Solar installation emits lesser carbon footprints compared to the traditional method of electricity from fossil fuels. As the solar panels carry a long life, it can help make your surroundings less polluted.

Independent energy.

Solar energy is everywhere the sunshine reaches. Anyone can use this energy without polluting the environment. Many areas lack the proper infrastructure, which results in sudden power loss at any point in time. Thanks to solar installation, you can now produce and consume solar energy as your electricity. It gives you a state of independence from hefty electricity bills.

Related Read: 5 Financial Benefits of Solar Energy

Cons/Advantages of going solar:

Understanding the pricing of solar is complicated:

Some people may find it difficult in the pricing factor for solar installation, which changes their perspective about going solar. There are many solar installation providers available in the market which can make the customer confuse about which one to choose. Prices may vary from provider to provider, but the customer needs to choose which is offering the best service at the right price.

Solar panels aren’t ideal if you are constantly moving.

A solar installation is a great investment, but it can take some time to reach the break-even point. The average payback time for any solar installation can go up to 8 years. It is not suitable for those who expect a quick return on investment. It would be an unworthy investment for a young homeowner who keeps shifting to different houses. There is a risk of damaging the solar panel while moving.

Solar requires a high capital cost.

The initial cost of purchasing any solar installation can cost you reasonably high. It includes solar panel, solar inverter, wires for connection, batteries for storage (optional) and installation cost. Solar technologies are constantly evolving, which means the price of solar technology can either go up or go down in the near future.

Weather dependency.

Although the solar panel can work during a rainy and cloudy day, the efficiency of solar panels can drop at such time. A solar installation is dependent only on the sun. A few rainy or cloudy days can affect the energy consumption of your house.

You can consider these points while going for solar. We hope we gave you some clarity while making your decision to go solar.  Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote or call us at +91 772-199-4477.

solar panel financial benefits
Blog

5 Financial Benefits of Solar Energy

January 10, 2020 One Comment

India has ample sunlight throughout the year. It means we can use solar energy for our electricity production. 

Solar energy is one of the safe, inexpensive and eco-friendly source of energy. Currently, around 1.4 million homes have a solar installation in India. Solar power can harness various financial benefits for your residential, commercial and industrial property. To list here are five financial benefits of solar energy.

1. Solar power is cheaper than the electricity grid.

Thermal energy production comes more costly contrarily than rooftop solar energy which offers a one-time investment for your property. Since solar technology has moved very far in India, it is sufficient enough to meet one’s daily consumption of electricity. A person can save money with the production of solar electricity at home. With the constant rise in the price of electricity, it is a better option available to consumers for their electricity needs. Developing countries like India offer a good amount of Return on Investment with better financial security to the homeowners.

Related Read: 7 Reasons Why Solar Panel is Good for Your Home

2. Increase in property value:

In addition to huge saving benefits, getting a solar installation can offer a benefit of an increase in property value. Therefore, while selling, leasing, or renting the property can give you the advantage of claiming a better cost in return. Solar installation can last long up to 30 years where a person can enjoy saving benefits on hefty electricity bills.

3. Energy Independence:

Even though India today may be called as sufficient energy developer but in reality, the lack of proper infrastructure can result in a power shortage in many remote as well as urban areas in the country. Solar installation can offer an independent structure of energy to your property without spending tons of money on traditional power grid lines.

4. Government Incentives:

Those who wish to go for solar panel installation can avail the sector loan of amount 10 lakhs from nationalized banks. The current policy of the Ministry of New and Renewable, the central government offers 30 per cent of the installation cost for the rooftop PV system. Both the central and state government provides a subsidy to the people installing rooftop PV system because it encourages people to adopt the renewable sources of energy for their homes and cut their electricity bills into half the amount. Some states which come under special categories such as Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir get a subsidy of 70 per cent for installation cost. These schemes are available only for residential, institutional and social sectors.

5. Tax benefits:

Investors in the solar installation are eligible for accelerated tax depreciation during their financial year in which the installation has taken place. Besides these benefits, income from solar energy can be exempted from tax for the next 10 consecutive years. This provision can vary from state to state.

Need any more reasons to go for solar? Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote or call us at +91 772-199-4477 or visit https://galaxysolarenergy.com.

Net Metering
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What is Net Metering and How it Works?

December 12, 2019 No Comments

The concept of Net Metering holds importance because it works as an incentive for both – the supplier and the consumer. Through this process, Grid receives surplus power generated by the consumer. Other consumers connected to the grid receive this excess power for their consumption. This process of sending the excess energy to the power grid is commonly referred to as Net Metering all over the globe. The solar panel owners first consume the electricity that is being produced by the solar panel. Excess energy produced is then pushed back to the power grid. Other houses connected to the grid, use this power for their consumption.

With the constant rise in energy prices, it is a wise decision to switch to Solar Rooftop panel at your home, office or anywhere the sunlight falls. The net metering system was initiated in India as a course of action to make distributed renewable energy more accessible and economical for consumers across India. It works by considering the difference between the export of power generated by the consumer’s rooftop panel, and the import of power from distribution companies. Consumers then compensated for the surplus power generated at a price determined by their respective state net metering policy. The Net Metering system is the most common solar metering system in India. In this metering system, the distribution panel and solar inverter are mounted together for converting the DC to the AC. Additional to that a bi-directional meter to measure the exported and imported electricity.

 

Let us explain to you how the Net Metering works:

Your Solar Installation will generate the most power during the daytime. This is the time when your home uses less amount of power. Other homes connected to the grid use this excess energy.. In return, You receive a credit for the power that you share with the grid. In fact, your Bi-directional meter will show reverse reading to reflect your contribution.

Related Read: 7 Reasons Why Solar Panel is Good for Your Home

During the evening, panels create no power and your home consumes a considerable amount of power. At this time, your home will need to get the energy from the power grid lines. The installed Bi-directional (Net) meter moves forward again, counting the amount of electricity in which your home is consuming. At the end of the month, you receive a credit if you contribute more energy to the grid than your consumption.

This scenario is more common in the case of warmer months, for instance in summer where the longer days and higher solar insolation levels let your solar installation for producing more power. For those months where your home consumes more electricity from the power grid than you contribute, you will only pay the net difference amount between what you contribute to the power grid and what your house has consumed. This is how the Net Metering system works.

Interested in reducing your electricity bills?

Let us give you the right solution for your home. Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote.

Understanding the Two Solar Business Models: CAPEX & RESCO
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Understanding the Two Solar Business Models: CAPEX & RESCO

November 27, 2019 One Comment

Solar Energy is one of the most reliable sources of renewable energy available to us today. The world is currently racing to make this technology widespread, especially with the ever-looming threat of global warming. Renewable energy, which has minimal to none carbon footprint, is essential to make our world and our environment a better and healthier place to be in.

The government of India is encouraging every Indian to opt for clean and green solar energy. To promote convenient adoption and use of solar energy, public and private sectors have been informed by the Ministry of Finance to offer a loan at the minimal interest rate for encouraging Solar Ideology to every home, business, office, and other places. It is vital for the customer and investor that they choose the right business model to minimize the risk and maximize the Return on Investment.

There are two Solar Business Models in India, and both models have their pros and cons. It all depends on your objectives. An in-depth analysis is very important to find out which solar business model is suitable for your business. As per the project size, investment amount, and different financial needs, two solar business models are followed in India.

1. CAPEX Model.

It is the most common model form of the solar power plant business model in India. In this model, the customer generally hires a solar EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) company that provides the installation of the entire solar power system and hand over access to the consumer. One of the major advantages of this model is that the customer is eligible to claim the accelerated depreciation to gain tax savings from the government.CAPEX Business Model

Highlights:

  • Allows Residential, Industrial, and Commercial to own the system.
  • The customer sets up the rooftop solar project with the intent to reduce his power costs.
  • The customer bears the entire capital expenditure of the project.
  • The customer gets benefit by selling the surplus power generated to the DISCOM.
  • The gains from tariff savings accrue to the roof and solar power plant owner.
  • Commercial & Institutional clients can also claim the accelerated depreciation.
  • EPC also performs the annual operation and maintained (O&M) of the plant on mutually agreed cost per annum. 

       

2. RESCO Model.

Renewable Energy Service Company is an energy service company which provides energy to the customer from renewable energy sources usually from Solar Photovoltaic, Wind Power or Hydropower. RESCO about pays as you consume electricity. Since it is operated and maintained by the RESCO, it carries a longer production run than the CAPEX model.Highlights:

  • Solar Power Plant is owned by the RESCO and ENERCO (Energy Company).
  • The customer service does not own any rights on the solar energy system.
  • Customers have to sign the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with an actual investor at a mutually agreed tariff and tenure.
  • The customer only pays for electricity consumed as per units for power basis.
  • RESCO developer is responsible for its annual operation and maintenance.
  • RESCO gets the benefit by selling surplus power generated to the DISCOM.

Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote.

7 Reasons Why Solar Panel is Good for Your Home | Galaxy Solar Energy
Blog

7 Reasons Why Solar Panel is Good for Your Home

November 18, 2019 No Comments

In urban and rural India, many homes are switching to this clean energy for various reasons which give them ample benefits which we will be discussing in this blog. There is nothing wrong with switching to a better option for energy production other than the traditional grid system. Most of the people are aware that solar is a home efficient upgrade and eager to reduce the carbon footprints from their surroundings.

In terms of economic, environmental and personal, Solar Installation carries various benefits and let us give you some insightful reasons why solar energy is good for your home.

1. Drastic change in the electricity bill.

It doesn’t matter if you are a homeowner, business or a non-profit organization, the electricity bill can take up a large portion of your expenses. With having Solar panels at your rooftop, you can save up to 60% amount in your electricity bill. Also, you’ll be generating the electricity for free for the next 25 to 30 years without being dependent on the electricity grid.

2. Less maintenance cost for solar panels.

Solar panels don’t have any moving parts which remove the chances of wear and tear of any parts. Therefore it involves fewer maintenance costs. Solar panels are meant to be tested to withstand high winds and extreme weather conditions which makes them so durable and long-lasting.

3. Earn a great return on investment.

Solar panels are not the expense; they are the best investment for the future. Net metering policy in India allows you to sell your excess generated power to the government. Tariff of this excess power is different in different-different states. Please refer to your state net metering policy.

4. Increase your property value.

Due to recent estate reports, it has been noticed that the houses or any place with an installed solar panel system gets higher property values and sell more quickly than non-solar homes. Those who are looking to sell their place with solar installed can enjoy this option while calculating their property value.

5. Protection of the environment.

Solar is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint. A typical residential solar panel will eliminate three to four tons of carbon emissions each year—the equivalent of planting over 100 trees annually.

6. Be independent for your electricity consumption.

One of the best advantages of having a solar panel at your home is you don’t have to be at the mercy of utility providers. The electricity board raises their cost at any point in time, but you won’t be affected because you produce your solar electricity.

7. Be futuristic.

Technology is changing day by day, and if you are upgrading with it, then nothing is better than that. Many reports have stated the fact that it is going to be the ‘Solar age’ ahead of where every gadget will going to be with Solar cells. Now it is up to you whether you be in a traditional way or welcome the future with open arms.

We hope you got the idea why Solar panel is good for your home. Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote.

how solar panels work
Blog

What is Solar Panel and How Does it Work?

November 12, 2019 No Comments

Solar Energy is one of the biggest booms worldwide known as ‘clean energy’ and is available in abundant quantity. Our sun is a natural nuclear reactor that releases a packet of energy called photons that travel to millions of miles away from the sun to the earth in about 8.5 minutes. Every hour, enough photons reach and impact our planet to generate solar energy for our household and commercial purpose.

Solar Panels are the devices that absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into electricity or even heat for that matter. It is a collection of solar or photovoltaic cells, which can be used to generate electricity through a photovoltaic effect. The cells are arranged in a grid-like pattern where they store and convert the energy. We can all have ample benefits by tapping into this resource, but the real question arises – How do rooftop solar panels work?

Sun releases atom in the atmosphere where the solar rooftop attracts these atoms and separate electrons and atoms. Photons are particles of light. The process of separating the photons from their atoms produces solar electricity.

Let’s have a look at how solar panels work:
Step 1:

Solar Panel collects sunlight where the photovoltaic (PV) cells are installed. PV cells take photons and convert them into electricity. It produces the Direct Current (DC) electricity, but DC power can’t power your home on its own. That’s where the Solar Inverter comes into the picture.

Step 2: 

Solar Inverter helps in converting the type of current. The most important thing to know about the solar inverter is it converts the Direct Current (DC) into Alternating Current (AC). This can be useful for the power to be used at your home.

Step 3: 

Solar Electricity then passes through Net Meter, which makes it more suitable for the application of your home. In some cases, where the solar panel is not producing enough electricity for the usage of your home, there Net Meter helps you to get electricity from the traditional electricity grid in your area. It also keeps track of the solar electricity units produced as well as consumed by your house and sent back to the electricity grid. 

Step 4:

If your solar energy produces more than it consumes, the net meter sends the excess energy back to the electricity grid. You get a concession for providing the electricity to the grid in your next month’s electricity bill as per the agreement between you, your solar provider, and energy company in your area. Solar Panel generates electricity when the sun is up and shining, but we use electricity most during the night time when we are not producing solar power. That is why you should stay connected with your electricity grid.

That’s how the Solar Panel works. Interested in going Solar? Galaxy Solar offers you some really good deal and professional service for your residential, commercial, and industrial solar installation. 

Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote.

Benefits of Solar Energy
Blog

5 Benefits of Solar Energy to the Environment

October 31, 2019 2 Comments

Solar Energy is a safe solution for everyone, including homeowners and business owners. It is an affordable, clean, and sustainable way to generate electricity for the place. Nowadays, many people are switching to solar energy solutions for their homes, workplace, factory, and many more places. The reason is it helps in reducing the cost of electricity and carbon footprints in the environment.

If you are thinking of switching to solar rooftop system in your home or at your workplace, now is the time, and we’ll give you the benefits of having solar energy in your surroundings.

1. Solar solution is the best investment.

If you are struggling with heavy loads of electricity bill at your place, solar power solutions can offset your cost of electricity. Solar rooftop panels offer year-round efficiency in producing electricity from the sun and converts into electricity for your household purposes. Depending on the size of solar panel and orientation relative to the sun, a solar panel produces more electricity than your household consumes. Most of the electricity rates are rising nowadays, but due to solar power solution, the person can pay predictable rates for the next 25 years. It is the best investment you can do for your place!

2. Solar rooftop panels have diverse applications.

Due to Photovoltaic cells and solar thermals in solar panels, it can produce electricity even in the areas where the electricity is limited or none. It can be beneficial for various purposes, e.g., if you own a water distillation plant and the electricity grid is making a heavy hole in your pocket, You can easily switch to solar solution for your need for electricity. By installing solar panels, you can gain energy independence.

3. Solar energy reduces green gas emission.

Electricity generated by fossil fuel has more green gas emission, which leads to rising global temperature levels and climate change such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disturbed eco-system. By choosing solar power, the person can reduce the greenhouse effect and shrink the carbon footprint in the surroundings.

4. Solar power is plentiful energy.

The solar energy from the sun harness in all areas of the world, and it is available every day. We cannot fall short of solar energy, unlike other kinds of energy. It will be accessible energy for all as long as the sun lives in our solar system.

5. Solar Solution requires less maintenance cost.

Solar rooftop panels generally don’t require much maintenance. It just requires cleaning and periodic service to keep the smooth working going on. There are many solar system service providers available who can give you the right service to your solar panels. As there are no moving parts, it has no problem with wear and tear. Only the inverter needs to be changed every 5 to 10 years, depending upon their working conditions. It is a one-time big investment in setting up the Solar power solution; later on, you need to sit back and relax from heavy electricity bills.

Hopefully, we gave you some factual benefits which can change your way towards green energy. Contact us today to get a free solar panel installation quote.

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