Investing in a PV system in Arizona

Part 2 of Arizona Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Solar Electric System. Why should I buy a PV system? People decide to buy PV systems for a variety of reasons. Some want to reduce air pollution and help preserve the earth’s finite fossil-fuel resources. Others would rather spend their money on an energy-producing improvement to […]


Arizona Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Solar Electric System

Part 1 of Arizona Consumer’s Guide to Buying a Solar Electric System. Are you thinking about buying a PV system for your home or business? If so, this series will provide basic information that you need to know. Consumer’s in Arizona are showing increased interest in solar electric systems for their homes and businesses. These […]


What should you know about warranties?

Part 16 of Get Your Power from the Sun. Warranties are key to ensuring that your photovoltaic system will be repaired if something should malfunction during the warranty period. photovoltaic systems eligible for some solar rebate programs must carry a full (not “limited”) two-year warranty, in addition to any manufacturers’ warranties on specific components. This […]


What should you know about utility and inspection sign-off?

Part 15 of Get Your Power from the Sun. After your new photovoltaic system is installed, it must be inspected and “signed off” by the local permitting agency (usually a building or electrical inspector) and most likely by the electric utility with which you entered into an interconnection agreement. Inspectors may require your photovoltaic provider […]


How do you choose among competing bids?

Part 11 of Get Your Power from the Sun. If you decide to get more than one bid for the installation of your photovoltaic system (always a good idea), make sure that all bids are made on the same basis. For example, a bid for a system mounted on the ground is usually very different […]


How do you choose among photovoltaic providers?

Part 10 of Get Your Power from the Sun. Compile a list of prospective photovoltaic providers. (Those closest to you should have the lowest travel costs). Contact these providers and find out what products and services they offer. The following questions may give you a good sense of their capabilities: Has the company installed grid-connected […]


How much does a photovoltaic system cost?

Part 7 of Get Your Power from the Sun. No single answer applies in every case. But a solar rebate and other incentives can always reduce the cost. Your price depends on a number of factors, including whether your home is under construction and whether photovoltaic is integrated into the roof or mounted on top […]