Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

A solar electric system converts the sun’s energy into electricity by producing direct current (DC) in the PV panels. The DC current goes to an inverter, which changes it to alternating current (AC) which then synchronizes with the utility (PG&E) grid.

The electricity produced by the system goes back through the meter to the grid, providing you a credit for the solar-produced electricity. At the end of the year, PG&E sends a True-Up Energy Statement showing net energy usage. Everything else remains the same as before your solar installation, except for saving money and knowing your electricity is from a clean, renewable source.

In a grid-tied solar electric system, electricity can flow through your meter in either direction, depending on the amount of electricity your system is producing and how much electricity you are using. When your system is producing more electricity than needed, the surplus goes back into the grid, providing you credit. At other times, you draw power from the utility grid, in which case you are “buying” electricity. Net metering keeps track of the difference between the electricity produced by your system and the grid-supplied electricity you use. You still have access to all the power you need.

It is important to give Solar Works your accurate electrical usage data so we can design a properly sized solar electric system that meets your needs. With a grid-tied solar electric system, PG&E credits solar customers for up to 100% of the electricity used, but does not pay for excess solar production over the course of a year. Sonoma Clean Power may pay customers for excess production, but not at full retail rate. More information: sonomacleanpower.org (SCP).  

PG&E and Sonoma Clean Power work together to provide clean power at competitive rates. PG&E is responsible for the infrastructure, including transmission lines, that carry electricity to residents and businesses. Sonoma Clean Power (SCP) buys power generated by renewable sources (solar, wind and geothermal) and PG&E delivers that electricity to your home or business via the PG&E-maintained grid. Get more information at sonomacleanpower.org

Clear and unobstructed access to the sun is best for a solar electric system, as shading from buildings, trees, or other vegetation can inhibit system performance. However, new shade mitigation technology enhances solar production on sites that may have been considered unsuitable for solar in the past due to shading. If a roof is not appropriate for an installation, the system may be mounted on the ground, or on a trellis or carport. In our experience, Solar Works can find a solar solution for almost any site.

Solar Works uses high-quality panels with a 25-year limited warranty. Although panels have a useful life expectancy of 30 years or more, it is normal for panels to slowly reduce output as they age. Inverters have warranties of 10, 12, or 25 years, depending on the manufacturer. Solar Works provides a 1-year, no fault warranty and 10-year workmanship warranty to ensure no additional costs to our customers during warranty coverage years.

Many factors determine cost, as pricing is specific to each project. Considerations include: Size, mounting system, roof material and pitch, wiring runs, and other installation details. One of the greatest variables in cost is the quality of specified equipment. Solar Works uses only materials and components we submit to a rigorous vetting process, which may result in a slightly higher upfront cost. But we know from decades of experience that installing top quality products is far more cost effective in the long term.

The most cost-effective time to invest in a solar electric system is now. Although prices of solar components have dropped dramatically over the past 10 years, they have stabilized in the last year, and prices are expected to continue at this level – or quite possibly increase. Costs related to labor, energy and business operations will not decrease, so it’s best not to wait to install a money-saving, quality system.

Sonoma County Energy Independence Program (SCEIP)
GoGreen Financing
Redwood Credit Union Solar Loans

Click here for a PDF of our complete residential solar electric installation process from contract to savings.