Home Solar Morris County NJ Archives

In an age where renewable energy solutions are not just a choice but a necessity, the appeal of solar power has never been stronger. With its promise of reduced electricity bills, a lighter carbon footprint, and energy independence, transitioning to solar energy seems like a no-brainer. Yet, a surprising number of homeowners are still hesitant to embrace this clean, sustainable power source.

At Green House Solar, we understand the concerns that often cloud the decision to go solar. That’s why our team of solar panel experts in NJ are going to debunk the most common misconceptions that keep people from harnessing the sun’s abundant energy and saving money on electric bills. In this article, we’ll shed light on the top four reasons why people don’t go solar (pun intended) – providing the peace of mind you need to make a more informed choice.

#1. Solar Panels are Too Expensive!

This is no longer the case! Did you know that the Federal Investment Tax Credit is 30% for solar panel installations starting in 2022 and has been extended through 2032. That is major installation cost savings you don’t want to miss out on. Plus, you may be eligible for other incentives like the NJ Solar Sales Tax Exemption which involves decreased costs for equipment and the NJ Property Tax Exemption that ensures homeowners are not paying increased taxes for installing solar panels that enhance their property value.

Not to mention that zero dollars down solar is an option for many homeowners. Let your electrical bill savings pay for your solar! If you’d like to know more about the solar incentives available and which ones you qualify for, give us a call – we’d be happy to help.

#2. Solar Panels Look Ugly!

The look of solar panels have really come a long way over the years. They aren’t as bulky and have a sleeker look overall. At Green House Solar, we install SUNPOWER® panels, which just happen to be industry leading in durability, efficiency and aesthetics. And if you’re still not sold on having panels all over your roof, we can discuss other options like ground mounts. Believe it or not, some homeowners actually benefit more when their solar panels are placed elsewhere on the property.

#3. Solar Systems Require Maintenance

Solar systems by SUNPOWER® are built to last and require minimal maintenance over their 25 year lifetime warranty. In the event that something does go wrong, your system components fall under the warranty that would cover replacement and repair costs. The best part about leasing a solar panel system is that repairs and routine maintenance are the leasing company’s responsibility, not yours. In layman’s terms, if you have a problem – just give Green House Solar a call and we’ll send over one of our solar technicians as soon as possible.

#4. Solar Salesman can be Obnoxious

There are some big box solar salesmen out there that are really pushy, which give the rest of us a bad rap. At Green House Solar, we will never force you into something you’re not comfortable with and it’s an honest conversation. We are passionate about solar energy and have no problem taking the time to explain all aspects of installation and maintenance thoroughly. If all your roofs face north and are covered by trees, we’ll be honest about solar not being a good idea for you. From safety concerns to overall energy costs, our team will guide you from steps A to Z. The last thing we want is for you to be disappointed, confused or blindsided by anything that comes along with your home solar system.

If you’d like to talk more about anything that has to do with home solar, please don’t hesitate to call us today! You could also learn more about our solar panel installation services by visiting our website at: https://greenhouse.solar

At a high level, installing a home solar panel system is really establishing a power plant on your roof. So, it’s only natural to ask, is it safe? We understand that when it comes to your home and your loved ones living inside, safety is the number one priority – as it should be! That being said, the solar energy experts at Green House Solar are here to put your worries to rest. Our team has answered some frequently asked solar safety questions. Let’s take a closer look:

Is solar safe for my home?

There are a few aspects to Solar energy safety when looking at Residential Solar which typically involves panels installed on the roof. One aspect is the physical safety of the installation, the weight of them on your roof. Green House Solar’s team carefully inspects the condition of your roof, the age of your shingles, the sub-roof plywood and many other elements. Measurements are taken and calculations made to ensure that the roof structure is sufficient to support the weight of the solar system, including snow loads and anticipated wind shears and we will make or recommend appropriate repairs if necessary, prior to an installation. We will never place a solar array on a roof that can’t confidently support the weight for the lifetime of the panels. And with decades of solar experience, we don’t take shortcuts with materials or mounting options because they are faster/cheaper.

Are some solar systems safer for my home than others?

Another safety concern is the electrical aspects of solar safety. After all, the whole point of this is to have the panels generate and distribute voltages and currents to your home and possibly the grid, and potentially charge your backup battery system. All of this must be handled correctly and carefully to ensure maximum safety.

At Green House Solar, we prefer systems utilizing micro-inverters for our residential customers. Micro-inverters convert the electricity generated from DC to AC at the solar panel. This means that the electricity on the roof is lower voltage (and safer) with micro-inverters as opposed to string inverters. Micro-inverters also have other advantages that maximize production when partial shading is a concern.

One other thing to consider is the electrical knowledge base of the company designing and installing your solar system. The owner of Green House Solar is a licensed electrical contractor. Our knowledge of code and general electrical work gives us a leg up on many installers who need to stick to one way of doing things.

What about solar back-up batteries? Which battery is safest for my home?

There are two main chemistry types of home energy storage batteries currently on the market – Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). Here at Green House Solar, we recommend and install LFP batteries exclusively because of their safer chemistry – they will not combust when punctured.

What kinds of permits and approvals are required before my system can be installed?

At the local municipal level, permit applications are submitted for structural and electrical approval, including fire official approval. State and utility submissions are also required. As is the case with many home improvement projects, following installation and commissioning, inspectors will review the work to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.

What are some of the regulations that ensure my solar system is safe?

There are many regulations in place to ensure that the design of your residential solar system is safe. These have evolved over time so that solar systems installed today are safer than ever. Green House Solar follows all requirements and as mentioned before, we are licensed electricians. Regulations include fire codes which specify the size and location of pathways for firefighters should they need access. In addition, there are specific requirements for disconnects and shutoff capabilities that will stop electricity production immediately should the need arise. Stamped electrical and structural engineering designs are generally required for residential systems and are part of the permit application process.

Safe and Affordable Home Solar Panels in New Jersey

By choosing solar panels installed by licensed electricians, you not only enjoy the economic benefits of solar energy, but also do your part to create a cleaner and greener future. At Green House Solar, we can address all your safety concerns, help you navigate the process of installing solar panels, and take advantage of all the tax incentives available. From design to installation, our team will be there every step along the way to ensure a safe and reliable solar energy system for your home.

To learn more about the safety of solar panels, visit our website at: https://greenhouse.solar or book a free consult with us.

NJ residential solar costs a worthy investment

Are you considering investing in a home solar system? Solar panels can generate free and completely clean energy from the sun to power your home, but you may be asking yourself: is a residential solar system really worth the cost and installation? There are several important factors to consider in order to answer this question, so our team at Green House Solar has put together this helpful guide to help you decide. Please don’t hesitate to contact our team if you’d like to learn more.

Review your monthly energy bill. As a general rule, the higher your electricity bill is every month, the more you stand to benefit from having a home solar system. But your energy use will change from season to season, so there will be certain times of year when your bill is more expensive than others.

Make a note of how much sun exposure your roof receives. The more direct sun exposure, the better. However, if your roof is shaded or doesn’t receive direct sunlight all day, that doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from solar panels. If you’re unsure, ask a local solar company to visit your house and conduct a thorough evaluation.

Get some estimates from local solar installers. We recommend getting several estimates from local solar companies to get an idea of how much the installation will cost. This is also recommended so you’re aware of what exactly is included within the estimate (i.e. solar panel maintenance, solar battery storage, etc.), and so you feel confident with the company you hire.

Be aware of tax credits and incentives. There are several tax credits and incentives for homeowners who have solar panels, and they differ from state to state. In New Jersey, for example, we have the Solar Investment Property Tax Exemption. This is a property tax exemption based on the added value of home solar panels.

Is residential solar worth it?

The best way to answer this question is to speak with homeowners who have been using their solar systems for several years. They’ll be able to give you an overview of installation costs, as well as how their energy bills have changed in the years since using solar panels to power their homes. Similarly, our team will be happy to give you our best estimate in regards to how solar panels will benefit you and your household.

If you’d like to learn more about residential solar costs in NJ, please contact our team at Green House Solar today or visit our website at: https://greenhouse.solar

If you’ve made the decision to invest in solar panels, you’re probably curious about the solar panel installation process. How much does it cost? What important factors do you need to consider? What are all the elements involved? What should you expect?

Home solar systems are becoming more common since they are now more affordable. We’re also seeing more people desiring to break free from their city’s electricity grid and to generate free, clean energy for their household. Just as your home is unique, the specific type of solar system you install will also be unique. Home solar systems depend on several factors, and these factors will determine your installation needs, as well as your cost. Let’s explore some of these factors:

Roof size and shape. Most of us live in homes with slanted roofs, so in order for the solar panels to stay in place, it sometimes requires a bit of extra equipment to be installed to secure your panels. Some roofs are not suitable for solar panels, period. But don’t worry, the panels can be installed on another area of your property instead, such as a front or side lawn.
Size of your home. If you live in a large, five-bedroom home and want as many solar panels as possible, then you’ll have different needs from someone who lives in a smaller, one-bedroom ranch. It’s worth noting that larger solar installations aren’t that much more time consuming – installation is usually quick and tidy.
Solar battery storage and other additional elements. Solar battery storage allows you to store extra energy your panels generate for use at a later date. Home solar systems have several additional elements you can use with your panels, and the team at Green House Solar would be happy to discuss them with you.

Home solar systems in Morris County NJ

Summer is finally here and we’re all enjoying the bright, sunny days. How convenient would it be if you could harness the power of the sun and turn it into clean energy for your home, at absolutely no cost to you? Many people in New Jersey have made the first step to invest in home solar systems and are now powering their homes with free, renewable energy. Having solar panels means you no longer have to rely on your town’s electricity, and it puts you in total control of your energy production and usage.

For more information about home solar installation or home solar systems, please contact our team at Green House Solar today. We look forward to taking the next step with you towards free, renewable energy.

Perhaps you’ve been thinking about installing a residential solar system, but you’re hesitant because you’ve heard they’re expensive. Most people know that solar panels help you reduce, and sometimes entirely eliminate, your monthly electricity costs while providing a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional electricity. However, there is still a lot of mystery surrounding the actual costs associated with buying and installing a home solar system.

Sunlight is free, but the solar systems required to turn sunlight into energy that powers your home are not free. Decades ago, when people in the US started using solar panels on their roofs, the cost was considered prohibitive by many people. However, as solar panels have increased in popularity and have become more widely available, many homeowners are happy to discover that they are now quite affordable.

Here are some facts about the costs associated with solar power:

The cost will be specific to your customized system and the final price will be influenced by several factors, including the size of your roof, how many panels you want, and which panels you choose.
Solar energy continues to become more affordable. According to the Climate Reality Project, the cost to produce one megawatt-hour of solar power fell a whopping 86% from 2009 to 2017!
According to a 2020 report released by the International Energy Agency, solar energy is now the cheapest electricity in the world.
In the US, the average installation cost for residential solar panels is around $17k – $20k, and this is after redeeming the federal solar tax credit. There are numerous financing options available that we’ll discuss in more detail below.
On average, it takes around 5 – 7 years to save the amount of money you’ll spend to install your solar system. In addition, solar panels have an extremely long life, so you’ll enjoy reduced energy bills for many years to come.

Reducing your power costs with solar panels

If you’re concerned about the upfront cost of solar panel installation, you have several options including a solar lease or a solar loan. A solar lease works exactly the same as a car lease, you simply pay a monthly rate for as long as you have the solar panels. Solar leases operate with a fixed monthly fee, so the amount you pay won’t change, even when energy prices rise or fall. Solar loans are a popular choice because you typically won’t have to make any net payments – your solar panels make the payment for you and you receive instant savings.

For more information about solar installation in Morris County NJ, or if you have any questions about solar loans, please contact our team at Green House Solar today.

Once you’ve made the decision to install solar panels at home, it’s now time to find the best company to handle your residential solar installation. But in a competitive market like solar power, with numerous installers to choose from, how do you know which company is the best? What criteria should you look for?

Choosing the right company is important, so to help in your search we’ve put together some tips to help you find the best solar company for you:

They should put safety first. Your solar company should only use the products that have the highest safety ratings. They should never sacrifice safety in the interest of budget or timelines. If you’re deciding between several solar companies, ask each of them to explain their safety standards and protocols, and ask about the safety ratings of their products.

They’re well-established and have a long track record of customer satisfaction. Due to the growing interest in solar panels, we’ve seen numerous solar companies pop up during the last decade. While this isn’t a bad thing, you should seek out a company that has been around for at least a decade. There’s always a chance that a new solar will go under, leaving you without a warranty for your solar panels.

They have dependable after-sales support. Installing your solar panels isn’t the end of the job. Over the years, you may have questions and your solar panels might require some light maintenance. With that said, the solar company you hire should provide any additional support you need.

They’re licensed and insured. The solar company you choose should be fully licensed and insured, and able to show proof of all relevant qualifications, warranties, and other insurance policies before any installation work begins. Check their websites head to toe for a list of credentials.

A home solar company you can trust in NJ

Choosing the best solar company for your home installation may take a bit of time, and we don’t recommend rushing the decision. Do a bit of online research to find client reviews, information about the company’s reputation, photos of their previous work, and other relevant information about them. Solar panels that are installed properly can last for many decades, providing you and your family with clean, renewable energy around the clock.

For more information about residential solar panels, please contact our team at Green House Solar today. The most unique thing about us, may be that you are reading the blog of a solar installation company that actually does its own work. We are a small New Jersey business, but we have been doing this work for over a decade and it’s what we love…bringing this amazing green energy solution to regular people just like us. We’d be more than happy to come to your house and talk to you about how all this stuff works. Whether you have studied every technical and economic detail of solar energy systems in NJ, or are completely new to the idea. Either way, you will know exactly what you can and can’t expect from your residential solar solution when you choose Green House Solar.

If you’re considering undertaking DIY solar installation, there are several important things to consider before deciding to embark on such an ambitious project. Unless you’re an industry professional and have experience installing solar panels, you’re likely unaware of the serious safety concerns involved, both for yourself and for your roof. Here’s why we recommend working with a trusted solar supplier:

There are multiple dangers involved. Installing solar panels requires you to lift heavy equipment, spend time on potentially unsafe surfaces, work with live wires and electrical equipment, and understand how to properly fit solar panels on a roof. These things require training, experience, and special industry knowledge that you simply cannot get from several hours watching YouTube videos. Some things are best left to the professionals, and this is certainly one of them.

You can cause expensive and permanent damage to your roof. Unfortunately not all roofs are able to support solar panels, and only an industry expert can assess your roof and determine if it’s fit for solar panel installation. If your roof isn’t able to support solar panels, but you go ahead and try to install them anyway, you’ll potentially be facing some expensive repair costs to repair the damage.

Solar panels can be a fire hazard when they are installed incorrectly. Electric wiring combined with high temperatures from the sun can be a bad combination when not in the hands of a professional. There are strict safety standards solar suppliers must adhere to, and DIY installations are often not compliant. To ensure the safety of your home and your family, partner with a licensed and insured solar supplier.

DIY jobs may not be eligible for tax rebates. Qualifying for tax rebates and credits often involves a lot of complicated paperwork, so working with a solar company that has experience in this area and can apply on your behalf is the best way to guarantee you receive the rebates you’re entitled to.

Working with a trusted home solar company

DIY solar panel installation is not recommended, for all of the reasons explained above. We recommend choosing a solar company who will be with you for every step of the process, from the initial home assessment all the way through to maintenance and repairs years down the line. Your solar supplier will be with you for many decades because solar panels have such a long life, so be sure to choose someone you trust.

For more information about Greenhouse Solar, or if you have any questions about solar panel installation, please contact us today. Find out why so many people in Morris County, New Jersey have chosen us as their trusted home solar supplier.

The cost of converting to solar power can seem steep, but don’t let that deter you from investing in completely clean and renewable energy for your home. Solar power installation costs will differ depending upon the type of property you have, and the number of panels required, and if you need assistance covering the up-front costs, you have several options.

Solar Lease – Introduced in the early 2000s, solar leasing has become hugely popular with homeowners and business owners across the country. It works the same way as leasing a car: the solar provider owns the equipment, pays for it, and is the legal owner. The solar provider also pays for installation, maintenance, and repairs, while you pay them an agreed fixed monthly amount, like paying a monthly energy bill. The one exception, of course, is that solar leases are typically much cheaper on a monthly basis than traditional energy from a utility company!
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) – Similar to a solar lease, a PPA comes with one notable difference: rather than paying a fixed monthly fee to the solar provider, you pay a certain amount for every kWh your system produces. This amount is pre-determined between you and your solar provider.
Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) – An EEM works by crediting your home’s energy efficiency in the mortgage itself, which can be used to finance solar panels.
Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program – Some states, including New Jersey, allow homeowners to borrow money from either their city, county, or state, and then pay it back via a higher property tax rate over a certain amount of time, usually 15 to 20 years. You can find out more about New Jersey’s PACE Program here.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending – A somewhat new financing system, P2P works by matching borrowers and lenders using crowdsourcing platforms. One advantage of the P2P system is that you, as the borrower, can avoid high transaction fees and other fees banks sometimes charge.

Get more information about power costs

As you can see, there are a handful of financing options when it comes to installing a home solar system. The upfront installation costs may seem high, however, you’ll quickly be enjoying lower monthly energy costs and reducing your environmental footprint. At Greenhouse Solar, we are experts in both residential and commercial solar panel installation, and we would be happy to answer any questions you have, so please contact our team today. Discover why we’re the go-to company in Morris County, NJ, for all your home solar needs. We look forward to hearing from you.

The solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is part of a federal policy that incentivizes home and business owners to install solar energy systems, and it makes solar panels more affordable for people across the country. To encourage more property owners – both commercial and residential – to invest in clean energy for their properties, the ITC allows for a 26% tax credit, meaning you can deduct 26% of the total installation cost of your solar energy systems and save thousands of dollars by going solar. Not to mention the money you’ll also save on your monthly energy bills! Also, there is no cap on its value, so if you’re a commercial property owner and want to convert all your current energy systems to solar, you can save a substantial amount of money while reducing your environmental footprint and enjoying the many benefits of solar energy.

To qualify for the ITC, the only requirement is that you own your solar energy system. When it comes time to file your federal tax return for the year, let your accountant know that you’ve converted to a solar energy system and they will help you claim the ITC. If you file your own taxes, there are several helpful online guides that can assist you.

We’ve seen several pieces of legislation at the state and national levels over the past few years that incentivize property owners who convert to solar energy systems. As we all take steps to reduce our carbon footprint and make environmentally friendly choices, investing in a solar energy system is an excellent choice, and for homeowners and business owners who qualify for the ITC, it’s an affordable option.

Learn more about home solar panels

If you’ve been considering installing a solar energy system, there’s still time to become eligible for the 26% tax credit, as it applies to all construction started in the year 2020. We have several sunny months ahead of us, and now is an excellent time to discover how efficient solar energy is in powering your home while reducing your monthly energy costs.

At Greenhouse Solar, we are proud to supply top-of-the-line solar panels for both residential and commercial buildings. For more information about solar installation in Morris County, NJ, or to speak to a member of our team, please contact us today. Discover why so many people trust us for all of their home solar needs. We look forward to hearing from you.

Are you in the market for residential solar solutions in Morris County NJ? Many people want to reduce their electricity costs and use clean and completely renewable energy to power their homes. If you’ve been considering having solar panels installed in your home, here are 10 things that may influence your decision:

It’s well known that solar energy is cleaner and better for the environment. But just how much better is it? The U.S. Energy Information Administration found that the reduction in emissions from an average-sized American home powered by solar panels is equivalent to planting 155 trees.
Similarly, many people want to do their part to reduce their carbon footprint and make cleaner choices. So how much can solar panels help reduce your emissions? The U.S. Department of Energy found that a solar-powered home can reduce CO2 emissions by 100 tons within 30 years.
Solar panels have become much more affordable over the years, making them a realistic option for millions of Americans.
Residential solar panels can be installed quickly, usually in a matter of days.
If your roof isn’t suitable for solar panel installation, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the clean, renewable energy that solar panels provide. Solar panels can be installed in various places on your property and our experts are happy to come take a look at your home and give you an assessment.
Solar panels contribute to better air quality for you and your community. According to the United Nations, energy generated by solar power instead of by fossil fuels reduces harmful greenhouse gas emissions, including those that decrease air quality like methane and carbon dioxide.
Once they are installed, solar panels require almost no maintenance at all aside from occasional cleaning. Leaves, dirt, and other debris that collects on the glass can prevent the panels from operating at maximum efficiency, so it’s important to keep them clean.
Solar panels have a very long life. A well-made solar panel will last on average around 30 years.
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels do not need direct sunlight to work. While being in direct sun will maximize their efficiency, cloudy winter days still generate electricity that is used to power your home.
Solar panels can be used to heat your pool. Homeowners know that heating the swimming pool can cause a huge increase in monthly energy costs, and solar panels provide a wonderful alternative to traditional heating methods.

Call the Morris County residential solar experts

At Greenhouse Solar, we are proud to be one of the premier solar companies in Morris County NJ. We’ve been providing our community with clean and completely renewable energy for more than 10 years, and we’re passionate about helping people find solar solutions for their homes. Give us a call today and discover why so many people trust us with their residential solar systems.

TopBar Text

Tag: Home Solar Morris County NJ