FAQs

We can help you go green to earn green!

Amberjack Solar Energy takes its commitment to providing renewable energy systems very seriously. We educate our clients on how Solar PV works so that they can take full advantage of its economic and environment benefits. Here are the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions.

What is solar energy?

Solar energy involves harnessing the power of the sun and converting it into clean, usable electricity with the help of a Solar PV System.

Why do I need a solar power system?

In addition to reducing your carbon emissions it can also lower or eliminate your electricity bills. Converting to solar energy improves cash flow and savings as well as provides numerous tax credits that you can take advantage of. In addition, the installation of a system will improve your corporate image as you demonstrate your environmental responsiveness. Amberjack will take care of ALL of your system’s requirements, completes all the paperwork for permits and credits and provides numerous financing options to offset costs.

Does a solar power system increase property values and taxes?

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the installation of a Solar Pv System will increase the value of your property the equivalent of 20 times your annual electric bill. Further, while property value increases, you will NOT be taxed on this increase resulting from the renewable energy system. Business owners are looking for ways to reduce energy costs. A facility with a solar energy system is an extremely attractive option. This can also mean quicker leasing and higher rental rates for the landlords.

What if I relocate?

We have the capabilities to move your PV System to its new location.

What solar systems does Amberjack offer?

Amberjack Solar Energy uses the latest technology to install the most energy efficient solar (photovoltaic) panels in Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Our grid-tied systems are either roof mounted, ground mounted or parking lot canopies. You will be producing your own electricity, while still being connected to your utility company at all times.

What is a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?

PPA is a financing option that allows your company to buy solar energy from a Solar PV System owned by Amberjack and installed on your commercial or municipal facility. There is no outright purchase because Amberjack owns the system. Instead you have a long term agreement (approximately 15-20 years) for purchasing the electricity generated at a fixed rate for the entire length of the agreement that is substantially lower than public utility rates. This protects you from price hikes. This arrangement is especially advantageous to schools, non-profit organizations and municipally owned entities that cannot take advantage of the government incentives.

Does the system work at night or on cloudy days?

Bright sunlight means optimal production, but this does not mean that your Solar PV System shuts down on cloudy days. Production is just less. However at these times you can take advantage of stored solar energy and/or your grid connection.

Must solar panels face south?

Panels must face Southeast to Southwest and be free of obstacles casting shade on the modules. Summer months are the most productive, as there is more sunlight. With the current tilt options and systems that track solar movement it is possible to adjust panels for maximum efficiency.

What happens during a power outage?

Solar PV Systems are interconnected with the commercial grid. In the event of a power outage, there are “anti-islanding” laws that prohibit your pv system from operating (so as to prevent power produced by your system from being sent back into the grid). Backup battery systems and generators are available to keep your operations going during a power outage.

How much power does a system produce?

The sky is the limit. Your capacity is determined by the number of solar panels (or modules) installed and the amount of sun exposure available. Your system can be engineered to meet peak demand and avoid having to pay exorbitant rates to your public utility company.

Can I generate excess power and what happens to it?

Yes, you can and your surplus solar energy can be sent to your electricity company in return for credits. According to the Net Metering guidelines your utility provider will reward you with credits against your monthly bill.

What about maintenance and cleaning of solar panels?

It is recommended to have the modules cleaned periodically. (Amberjack includes this service with each install). The optical surfaces of your solar panels only require a simple rinse, and typically do not need additional cleaning if you receive adequate rain.

Does solar panel installation interfere with structural integrity or the overall look of my facility?

No, we ensure that solar mounts are in 100% compliance with building, electrical and fire codes. In fact Amberjack makes it a point to get approval from a structural engineer even when it is not required by the state. Many of our roofing systems require no penetration and are easily installed. We also take great care to preserve the aesthetic appearance of your facility when recommending a PV system or installing it.

Should I install new roofing before the system?

Only if your roofing system is in disrepair, would we recommend the updating of your current roof. Since a Solar PV System lasts for more than 25 years it’s preferable to repair your roof before the Solar system is installed. Your panels will actually protect your roof from sun and wind which will extend its life.

Are solar panels mounted only on the roof?

No, we will suggest the best location (roof or ground) but it’s still up to you. Although most solar panels are mounted on the roof, you can opt for a parking lot canopy as a shade for people and vehicles, or a ground mount for facilities with a large amount of open space.

Can I install the panels myself?

No, most states require you to use a licensed solar or electrical contractor to perform the installation. There are important codes to conform to including safety, solar, electrical and structural guidelines, that need professional experience.

How durable are solar panels? Will they stand up to a hurricane?

Solar panels are extremely durable. Made from tempered glass, they are built to survive extreme weather including wind speeds of 140 mph, and have even been used in outer space.

What happens when it snows?

When the sun is shining, solar radiation heats up the collector and melts the snow from the bottom up, allowing it to slide off easily. Plus the solar panels are also angled to facilitate this.

How long will my solar panels last?

Amberjack’s fixed solar panels have up to a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and flexible ones up to a 20-year warranty. A well-designed, properly installed and well-maintained system can last for over 30 years because it has no moving parts. We include system monitoring & maintenance and provide periodic status reports on your system’s effectiveness, all of which are helpful to maximize system longevity.

Are batteries necessary?

Batteries are very costly at approximately an additional 30% expense. Since you are tied to the grid you will not need them except as backup during a power outage. A gas powered generator is often a more cost effective alternative to battery back up systems.

How will I know if my system is working?

Every facility is equipped with a power (net) meter to measure how much electricity is generated and used, and when it is being sent to the grid. When you have a surplus your meter will spin backwards. A data chip in your inverter along with real time, 24- hour Web-based monitoring informs you of all issues that need attention.

What is net metering?

Although every utility company has different rules, the basic idea is that your utility company will buy surplus electricity from you at the same rate they sell to you. This is adjusted in the form of credits on your monthly bill. Conversely, when you are consuming more electricity than your system is producing, you will receive the additional electricity needed from the grid.

What is a solar tracker?

It is usually a pole mounted system that tracks the movement of the sun during the day and through the seasons. It is designed to help you capture maximum sunlight which increases the productivity of your solar energy system.

If you own a business or commercial property in MA, NJ, NY, CT, PA and NC, call Amberjack Solar Energy or e-mail us for a free solar evaluation before the incentives and credits are gone. Our solar consultant will analyze last year’s electricity bills and provide a free information package on your ROI and financing options.

Call us or fill out our online form for additional information about Solar PV Systems solutions in Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and/or North Carolina. Contact Us...