Latest Solar 101 articles

Just starting out in your search for solar? Look no further! We cover all the basics of what you need to know when going solar.

Solar panel car roofs: are they a good idea?

Solar panel car roofs are a relatively new phenomenon that promise to use renewable energy to add some charge to the car's batteries, but short of some absolutely miraculous new physics breakthrough, a fully solar-powered car will not be practical for the vast majority of people.

Written by Ben Zientara

Is Minnesota's Value of Solar tariff the future of solar?

Minnesota’s Value of Solar tariff has come under fire by Xcel Energy. The utility is seeking changes that could lower customers’ savings.

Written by Catherine Lane

What is California’s Solar Consumer Protection Guide?

Legislation requires California solar installers to provide new customers the guide to ensure that they're making an educated decision about solar.

Written by Catherine Lane

Questions to ask solar companies before you sign a contract

As you're evaluating solar companies, it's important to ask questions about the company, the equipment, money, the work being done, and the future. Here's how.

Written by Ben Zientara

Solar paint: The next big thing in renewable energy?

Solar paint actually refers to 3 different exciting technologies: hydrogen-producing paint, quantum dots and perovskites. We explain them all in this blog.

Written by Aditya Gautam

What is a peak sun hour? What are peak sun hour numbers for your state?

One peak sun hour = 1000 W/m2 of solar irradiation. The states with the highest avg. peak sun hours are AZ, NV, NM, and CA.

Written by Zeeshan Hyder

Solar system types compared: Grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid

Are grid-tied better than off-grid or hybrid solar systems? What are the differences? Read this article to find out what solar system system type is best for you.

Written by Zeeshan Hyder

What are the benefits of solar power for churches?

A growing number of churches, synagogues and temples are successfully going solar. Find out how and why solar benefits these houses of worship.

Written by Jagpreet Sandhu