FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW DOES SOLAR ENERGY WORK?
Every hour, more energy is produced by the Sun than all of us in the world could use in a whole year — clean, limitless, free energy.Solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, capture, and convert sunlight into clean DC (direct current) electricity. A solar inverter converts the DC electricity into grid compliant AC (alternating current) that powers your home.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CHOOSE A SOLAR INSTALLER?
Reputation is everything when selecting a company you can trust to install and maximize your solar system. At AC Solar, Massachusetts homeowners equate our name with quality, a superior product and excellent workmanship by delivering the most efficient and aesthetically pleasing solar system possible.
WHAT MAKES AC SOLAR’S INSTALLATIONS A CUT ABOVE THE REST?
At AC Solar we understand your valuable investment and approach each job with the utmost respect for your space. We are turnkey installers providing complete in-house installs, optimal design, both structural and electrical engineering, full monitoring of systems, and a variety of very low financing options that make solar affordable. We guarantee our years of experience in the electrical and roofing industry will give you peace of mind, knowing that we are focusing on even the smallest detail of your design. All of our crews are highly trained, and we are set on building long-standing relationships with our customers.
HOW DOES USING A SUPERIOR SOLAR PANEL BRAND BENEFIT ME?
Going with a superior solar panel manufacturer at the top of their game like LG Solar means you get insured warranties, advanced technology that’s been comprehensively tested, and a product that is built for 100% longevity. Essentially, a better solar panel means a more productive solar system, a very low cost of ownership and less risk because of the long-standing and reputable brand.
WHAT ARE THE MA SOLAR INCENTIVES?
26% Federal tax credit
$1,000 MA state tax credit
SMART Program proceeds for 10-years
ARE AC SOLAR’S PV SYSTEMS COVERED UNDER ANY WARRANTY?
All of AC Solar’s products, solar panels, inverters, and even the rails that sustain the solar panels on your roof, all offer unbeatable warranties — 25 years! Add that to the AC Solar superior 5-year labor warranty that guarantees every job, and you’ve got a system that’s truly worry-free.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THERE IS SNOW ON MY ROOF, OR NO SUN?
Fortunately, net energy metering allows you to accrue and leverage credits for electric power from the grid during times of much lower sun exposure, meaning you will generate enough on sunny days to cover your energy use on days with much lower production (e.g. winter months).
DO SOLAR PANELS INCREASE MY HOME VALUE?
Absolutely! According to the Appraisal Journal, a home’s value is increased by $20 for every $1.00 reduction in annual energy savings — so for every $1,000 you save on electricity a year, your home value increases by $20,000.
WILL HOMES WITH SOLAR PANELS SELL FASTER THAN HOMES WITHOUT SOLAR PANELS?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a solar-equipped home is likely to sell 20% faster than non-solar homes. In Massachusetts, solar panels add $3.00 per watt installed (for the system size) to the value of your home.
e.g. A 5kw system in MA: $3.00 x 5,000w = $15,000 value added
WHAT IS THE SMART PROGRAM?
SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) is a statewide program here in MA that offers monthly financial incentives to home and business owners who purchase and install a solar electric (PV) system. Participants in the program can receive thousands of dollars in incentives for their solar energy systems, paid out over time in monthly increments.
The SMART program is built on declining “capacity blocks,” and the incentives decline as each block is used. How much you receive in incentives depends on which capacity block you are placed in and how much electricity your system produces. If, for example, you install a 9 kW solar panel system and are placed in the first capacity block, you could receive $15,000 in incentives over the next 10 years!