Switching to solar energy is an exciting step toward sustainability, savings, and energy independence. But if you're new to solar power, you probably have many questions. How does it work? Is it worth the investment? What do you need to get started?

Our team at Infinium Solar Roofing and Electric developed this guide to break down the basics of solar energy, helping you understand how it works and whether it's the right choice for your home or business.

The Power of Solar: Why Make the Switch?

If you’ve ever glanced at your electric bill and wondered if there’s a way to cut down on those monthly costs, you’re not alone. Solar energy offers a powerful solution for your wallet, the environment, and long-term energy security. By harnessing the sun’s abundant power, homeowners and businesses can take control of their energy needs while contributing to a cleaner planet.

One of the biggest draws of solar energy is the significant cost savings. Imagine dramatically reducing or eliminating your electricity bills simply by generating your own power. Instead of paying fluctuating utility rates, you can produce your own electricity, often offsetting what you’d typically draw from the grid. Those savings add up, allowing you to reinvest in other areas of your home or business.

Beyond the financial benefits, going solar is one of the most impactful ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that doesn’t release harmful greenhouse gases. By switching to solar, you’re actively contributing to a more sustainable future where energy production doesn’t come at the cost of environmental degradation.

Solar also provides energy independence that traditional utility services simply can’t. By producing your own electricity, you become less reliant on the grid and the ever-changing energy market. You’re protected from unexpected rate hikes and potential power outages, giving you greater control over your home’s energy needs.

To make solar even more appealing, many local, state, and federal programs offer financial incentives to help offset the initial investment. Homeowners and businesses can take advantage of tax credits, rebates, and net metering programs that allow them to earn credits for excess energy sent back to the grid. These incentives make solar energy an environmentally conscious and financially strategic choice.

And if you’re thinking long-term, solar panels don’t just save you money—they can increase the value of your property. Homes and businesses with solar systems are often more attractive to buyers as they promise future energy savings.

Switching to solar isn’t just about adopting new technology—it’s about embracing a smarter, more efficient way to power your life. With savings, sustainability, and long-term value on the table, the real question is: why not go solar?

How Solar Panels Work: Unlocking the Science Behind Solar Energy

Harnessing the sun’s energy and transforming it into usable electricity is a remarkable feat of modern engineering. At the heart of this technology are photovoltaic (PV) cells, which serve as the foundation of every solar panel. These specialized cells, primarily made from semiconductor materials like silicon, can uniquely convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. This process enables solar panels to generate power efficiently and sustainably.

Capturing Sunlight: The Role of Photovoltaic Cells

When sunlight hits a solar panel, photons (light particles) excite the electrons within the semiconductor material. This energy boost forces electrons to move, creating an electric current. The movement of these electrons through the PV cells produces direct current (DC) electricity—the same type of power found in batteries.

From DC to AC: The Critical Role of Inverters

While DC electricity is the initial output of solar panels, homes and businesses primarily use alternating current (AC) electricity. An inverter comes into play here. The inverter’s primary function is to convert DC electricity into AC electricity, ensuring that the energy produced by your solar panels can power appliances, lighting, and other electrical systems.

Using Solar Power: Direct Consumption or Grid Integration

Once the electricity has been converted to AC, it can immediately power your home or business.

If your system generates more electricity than is needed at a given time, the excess power can either be:

Sent back to the grid – Through net energy metering (NEM), you can receive credits for surplus electricity fed into the grid.
Stored in a battery system – If you have a solar battery, excess power can be saved for later use, which is particularly useful for nighttime consumption or power outages.

Different Types of Solar Panels: Understanding Their Purpose and Uses

Not all solar panels are created equal, and choosing the right one for your home or business requires careful consideration of efficiency, cost, aesthetics, and installation flexibility. The three primary types—monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film—each offer distinct advantages that cater to different energy needs and environmental conditions. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision and maximize your solar investment.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Renowned for their superior efficiency and sleek design, monocrystalline solar panels are widely regarded as the gold standard in the solar industry. These panels are made from a single continuous crystal structure, which enhances electron flow and improves energy conversion rates.

Key benefits of monocrystalline panels include:

High efficiency – Capable of converting more sunlight into electricity than other panel types, making them ideal for homes with limited roof space.
Superior performance in low-light conditions – Premium brands like REC and Maxeon incorporate advanced cell technology to optimize energy production on cloudy days or in shaded areas.

While monocrystalline panels come at a higher upfront cost, their long lifespan and superior output often result in more significant overall savings.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline panels offer a more budget-friendly alternative to monocrystalline technology. Instead of a single crystal, these panels are made from multiple silicon fragments melted together, creating a distinctive blue appearance.

Key benefits of polycrystalline panels include:

Lower cost – More affordable than monocrystalline panels, making them a good choice for those on a tighter budget.
Suitable for large installations – Because they are cheaper per panel, they are often used in large-scale solar farms or expansive commercial projects.

However, polycrystalline panels generally have a lower efficiency rating, requiring more roof space to generate the same amount of electricity as their monocrystalline counterparts.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar technology differs from crystalline silicon panels. These panels are created by depositing photovoltaic materials onto a flexible substrate, resulting in a lightweight, adaptable design.

Key benefits of thin-film panels include:

Highly flexible and versatile – Ideal for unconventional installations, such as curved surfaces or mobile applications (e.g., RVs, boats, and solar-integrated rooftops).
Easier installation – Due to their lightweight structure, thin-film panels are quicker to install and require less structural support.
Better performance in high temperatures – Thin-film panels can maintain efficiency better in extreme heat than traditional crystalline panels.

Despite these advantages, thin-film panels have lower efficiency rates, requiring more surface area to produce the same power. As a result, they are less commonly used for residential rooftops and more suited for commercial buildings, large-scale solar farms, or specialty projects.

Low-Light Conditions: Solar Panel Performance in Winter or on Cloudy Days

A common misconception about solar energy is that it requires constant direct sunlight to function efficiently. While sunny conditions undoubtedly enhance performance, modern solar panels are engineered to generate electricity even on cloudy days and during winter months. Thanks to advancements in photovoltaic technology, solar systems can capture and convert diffused sunlight, ensuring consistent energy production year-round.

Do Solar Panels Work in Cloudy Weather?

Yes! Solar panels perform best under direct sunlight but still generate electricity on overcast days. Clouds scatter and filter sunlight, but they don’t block it entirely. Even when the sky is covered, diffuse light still reaches the panels, allowing them to convert energy—albeit at a reduced rate.

Investing in high-efficiency panels, such as those manufactured by Maxeon and REC, can improve performance for regions with frequent overcast conditions. These premium panels are designed with advanced cell structures that enhance energy capture, even in low-light environments.

What Happens to Solar Panels in Cold Weather?

Many assume that cold weather negatively impacts solar panels, but solar panels thrive in cooler temperatures. Unlike traditional electronics that struggle in the cold, photovoltaic cells can operate more efficiently when temperatures drop. Heat can reduce panel efficiency, so crisp winter air often improves electricity generation.

Even when snow covers the ground, solar panels can continue producing power as long as they receive sunlight. Snow can sometimes contribute to solar performance by reflecting light onto the panels, enhancing overall energy absorption.

How Does Energy Production Balance Out?

While solar output may dip during cloudy or shorter winter days, net energy metering (NEM) helps balance energy needs. During peak sunny periods, excess electricity is fed back into the grid, generating credits that can be used to offset lower production during winter months. Homes with solar battery storage systems, such as the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase batteries, can also store surplus energy year-round for nighttime or low-production days, ensuring a reliable power supply.

To get the most out of a solar system in areas with frequent cloud cover or colder climates, consider:

Investing in high-efficiency panels – Premium brands like Maxeon and REC optimize energy generation in low-light conditions.
Keeping panels clear of debris and snow – Regular maintenance contributes to unobstructed sunlight absorption.
Incorporating battery storage – Storing excess energy provides backup power for cloudy days and winter months.
Optimizing panel placement – A professional installer can position panels to maximize sun exposure, even in areas with variable weather.

Net Energy Metering: Making the Most of Your System

One of the most significant advantages of installing a solar energy system is the ability to offset electricity costs through Net Energy Metering (NEM). This billing mechanism allows solar panel owners to send excess electricity generated during peak sunlight hours back to the grid, earning credits that can be used to reduce future energy bills when their system isn’t producing enough power—such as at night or during cloudy weather. However, not all NEM programs are the same, and homeowners' compensation for their surplus energy depends on their area's specific NEM level or policy.

How Net Energy Metering Works

At the core of NEM is a bidirectional meter.

This meter records:

Electricity drawn from the grid when solar production is low
Excess electricity sent back to the grid when solar panels generate more than is needed

When your solar system produces more energy than your home requires, your meter “runs backward,” and your utility company applies credits to your account. These credits offset the cost of electricity you pull from the grid when your solar panels aren't actively generating power. The result? Lower electricity bills and increased energy savings.

Why Are There Different Levels of NEM?

Net Energy Metering policies and compensation structures vary based on state regulations, utility company policies, and evolving energy market conditions. As more households have adopted solar power, utilities have adjusted their NEM programs to balance customer benefits with grid stability.

The most notable example of these changes is California’s transition from NEM 2.0 to NEM 3.0:

NEM 2.0 – Homeowners were credited for excess energy at full retail rates, meaning the value of exported energy was equal to the cost of electricity drawn from the grid.
NEM 3.0 – The compensation model shifted to an Export Compensation Rate, where homeowners receive credits tied to wholesale electricity prices rather than retail rates. This model lowers compensation for excess solar energy, making battery storage and self-consumption strategies more appealing.

Power Outage Protection: Understanding Backup Options

The idea of having a home powered by the sun, free from the vulnerabilities of the traditional grid, is appealing. However, concerning power outages, the reliability of a solar system depends mainly on whether it has a battery storage solution.

While excellent for reducing electricity bills and promoting sustainability, a standard grid-tied solar system does not automatically provide backup power during an outage. Most solar systems shut down during blackouts to protect utility workers who may be repairing power lines.

The Role of Battery Storage in Backup Power

You need a solar battery backup system to keep your home powered when the grid goes down. These systems store excess solar energy produced during the day, allowing you to draw from that reserve when an outage occurs. Without a battery, your solar panels are offline when the grid is down.

An essential component of a backup-enabled solar system is the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). This smart device detects a power outage and seamlessly switches your home’s energy supply from the grid to your battery storage system, providing an uninterrupted flow of electricity to essential appliances.

Choosing the Right Solar Battery for Backup Power

Not all solar batteries are created equal, and selecting the right one depends on factors like home size, energy consumption, and desired backup duration.

Some top-tier options include:

Tesla Powerwall 3 – Known for its high-capacity storage, the Powerwall 3 can power an entire home for extended periods and offers a seamless backup solution with automatic energy management.
Franklin whole home system – Designed for modular scalability, Franklin batteries allow users to expand their storage capacity based on energy needs. It is ideal for those who want flexibility in backup power.
Enphase battery – Built with microinverter technology, each Enphase battery functions independently, offering greater reliability and flexibility by preventing a single failure from impacting the entire system.

Each system has distinct advantages, making it crucial to assess your specific needs before choosing an appropriate battery for your home.

Finding the Perfect Fit: Sizing Your Solar System

Choosing the right size solar system is a balancing act requiring careful assessment of your current and future energy needs, available space, and financial goals. Installing a system that’s too small might not provide enough power. In contrast, an oversized system could lead to unnecessary expenses with little return on investment.

To maximize efficiency and savings, consider the following key factors.

Analyze Your Energy Consumption

Start by reviewing your past electricity bills to understand your average energy usage. Look at monthly and yearly consumption to account for seasonal fluctuations. This information will help determine how much solar power you need to generate.

Assess Your Roof or Land Space

The amount of space available for solar panels directly influences the size of the system you can install.

Consider:

Roof size and orientation – South-facing roofs typically capture the most sunlight, but east- and west-facing panels can still be effective.
Ground-mounted vs. rooftop systems – Ground-mounted panels may be an alternative if roof space is limited.

Evaluate Sunlight Exposure

Your geographic location and roof angle affect how much sunlight your panels will receive. More sunlight means fewer panels may be needed to generate the required power. A solar consultant can analyze shading to determine the optimal panel layout for maximum efficiency.

Consider Net Energy Metering (NEM) Policies

Under NEM 3.0, accurate system sizing is more crucial than ever. Oversizing your solar system or battery storage could lead to diminished financial returns, as excess energy sent back to the grid may be compensated at a lower rate. A well-calculated system helps you optimize your investment without unnecessary costs.

Consult a Solar Professional

While online calculators can provide a rough estimate, working with an experienced solar installer lets you get a system tailored to your needs.

A professional can:

Analyze your energy usage trends and forecast future consumption.
Account for NEM 3.0 regulations and local utility policies.
Design a system that maximizes efficiency while staying cost-effective.
Recommend the right balance between panel quantity and battery storage.

Equipping Your Space with Solar Panels: The Installation Process

The transition to solar energy isn’t just about selecting the right panels—it’s also about ensuring a seamless and efficient installation process. A well-executed solar installation requires careful planning, engineering precision, and adherence to local regulations. Each phase is critical in helping your solar array perform optimally for decades, from the initial consultation to the final system activation.

Consultation and Site Assessment

At Infinium Solar Roofing and Electric, every solar installation begins with a detailed consultation and site assessment, where professionals evaluate your property’s suitability for solar energy.

This phase includes:

Energy usage analysis – Reviewing your past electricity bills to determine the right system size for your needs.
Shading and sunlight exposure study – Identifying potential obstructions, such as trees or nearby buildings, that could impact solar efficiency.
Roof condition assessment – Ensuring your roof is structurally sound and capable of supporting solar panel mounting.

During this phase, we will also discuss available financial incentives, rebates, and financing options, helping you make an informed investment decision.

System Design and Permitting

Once the site assessment is complete, the next step is to create a customized solar system design tailored to your property’s unique specifications. One of our technicians will determine the appropriate layout for maximum sunlight absorption.

With the design finalized, the permitting process begins. Every jurisdiction has specific requirements, and our professional installers handle the submission of permits and compliance documentation to local authorities and utility companies. This step can take a few weeks, depending on regional regulations.

Installation: Mounting and Wiring

Once permits are approved, the installation begins—a process that typically takes one to three days, depending on the system's complexity.

Installation includes:

Mounting the solar panels – Panels are secured onto the roof or a ground-mounted structure using durable racking systems.
Electrical wiring and connection – The panels are linked to an inverter, which converts the electricity from direct (DC) to alternating (AC) for household use.
Battery and monitoring system setup – Technicians install and configure the system for energy storage and seamless power management if a battery backup is included.

Our solar professionals follow strict safety and engineering standards to contribute to long-term durability and peak performance.

Inspection and Grid Connection

Before your system goes live, it must pass an inspection conducted by local building and utility authorities to verify compliance with safety codes and regulations.

Once approved:

If applicable, your system is connected to the electrical grid, allowing net energy metering (NEM).
The system undergoes final testing and activation, verifying that all components function correctly.
You receive guidance on monitoring system performance via an app or monitoring platform.

Throughout the process, Infinium Solar Roofing and Electric provides guidance and support to make sure that the permits are handled correctly and the system is ready for use.

From Start to Finish: The Timeline for Installing Your Solar Panels

Transitioning to solar energy isn’t instantaneous. Still, the long-term benefits outweigh the waiting period. While the actual physical installation of solar panels is rapid—usually completed in one to three days—the entire process, from initial consultation to full system activation, can take anywhere from one to three months due to permitting, inspections, and utility approvals.

Several key elements impact how long your solar project will take:

System size and complexity – Larger systems or those incorporating battery storage solutions (such as Tesla Powerwall or Enphase batteries) may require additional installation time.
Roof condition and structural requirements – If a roof needs reinforcements or repairs before panel installation, this can add to the timeline.
Permitting and regulations – Local municipalities and utility providers have varying approval processes, some moving faster than others.
Inspection and utility interconnection – After installation, a final inspection and grid connection approval are necessary before your system is officially activated.

A Reliable Sustainable Energy System: The Lifespan and Efficiency of Solar Panels

One of the most common concerns among homeowners considering solar energy is how long their investment will last. Fortunately, modern solar panels are built with durability and longevity, typically 25 to 30 years. While their efficiency declines, well-maintained panels can continue generating electricity for decades beyond their warranty period, making solar a long-term, cost-effective solution for sustainable energy.

Lifespan of Solar Panels: What to Expect

Most solar panels come with manufacturer warranties ranging between 25 and 30 years, ensuring reliable performance throughout their expected operational life. However, even after these warranties expire, solar panels don’t stop working.

Solar systems continue producing electricity at a slightly reduced efficiency:

First 10-15 years – Panels operate at peak efficiency, typically retaining 95% or more of their original power output.
15-25 years – Performance may decline slightly, with most panels maintaining 80% to 90% efficiency.

Factors That Affect Solar Panel Longevity

While solar panels are engineered to be weather-resistant and highly durable, several factors influence their actual lifespan and efficiency.

These factors include the following:

Quality of materials – Premium panels, such as those from Maxeon and REC, utilize advanced cell technology and high-grade materials, allowing them to maintain efficiency for longer periods. Maxeon panels, for example, come with an industry-leading 40-year warranty, while REC panels guarantee 92% performance at year 25.
Environmental conditions – Extreme weather, such as hailstorms, heavy snowfall, or intense heat, can affect solar panel degradation rates. However, most panels undergo rigorous testing to withstand harsh elements.
Maintenance and upkeep – Keeping panels clean and free of debris enhances performance. Dust, leaves, or bird droppings can block sunlight and reduce efficiency. Regular inspections for physical damage and ensuring panels remain unobstructed contribute to a longer lifespan.

Maintaining Your Solar System: Contributing to Performance and Efficiency

One of the many advantages of solar energy is that solar panels require minimal maintenance, thanks to their durable construction and lack of moving parts. However, occasional cleaning and routine inspections are essential so your system continues to operate at peak efficiency for decades. While solar panels can withstand various weather conditions, external factors such as dust accumulation, debris, and shading can impact their performance.

How Maintenance Affects Solar Panel Efficiency

Solar panels work by capturing sunlight and converting it into electricity. Still, any obstruction that prevents maximum sun exposure can diminish energy output. Even a thin layer of dirt, leaves, or bird droppings can reduce efficiency by blocking portions of the photovoltaic cells. This buildup can lead to a gradual decline in power production, making regular maintenance a key factor in maximizing energy generation and return on investment.

How Often Should Solar Panels Be Cleaned?

The frequency of solar panel maintenance depends on environmental conditions and the location of your system.

The following guidelines may help with determining cleaning schedules:

High-dust or dry climates – In areas with little rain, dust can accumulate on the panels, requiring occasional manual cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
Tree-covered properties – Homes surrounded by trees may experience more leaf buildup, pollen, and bird droppings, necessitating more frequent cleanings.
Regions with regular rainfall – In many cases, rain provides natural cleaning, helping wash away light debris. However, prolonged dry spells may require intervention.

Proper Cleaning Techniques: Dos and Don’ts

While keeping your solar panels clean is crucial, using the wrong cleaning methods can cause permanent damage.

Follow these best practices for effective and safe maintenance:

Use soft brushes, microfiber cloths, or a gentle hose spray to remove dust and dirt.
Opt for mild, non-abrasive cleaning solutions if deeper cleaning is needed.
Clean early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent thermal shock from cold water on hot panels.
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the panel surface.
Do not use high-pressure washers, as they can loosen wiring and damage seals.
Never walk on the panels, as this can cause microcracks that reduce efficiency.

Maximize Your Solar Investment with Professional Guidance

Switching to solar energy is a long-term investment that provides financial savings, environmental benefits, and energy independence—but maximizing its potential requires choosing the right system, proper installation, and occasional maintenance. By understanding how solar panels work, their lifespan, and how to optimize efficiency, you can make informed decisions that contribute to decades of reliable, renewable energy.

If you're ready to take the next step toward energy savings and sustainability, contact Infinium Solar Roofing and Electric at (650) 600-0747 to learn how our San Jose solar panel services can help you make the most of your investment!

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