Solar PV

How does Solar PV work?
What are the most appropriate applications for solar PV?
What factors should I consider before investing in a solar PV system?
What is the expected life of a solar PV system?
How much system maintenance is required?
Where can I find a local installer?
How much does Solar PV cost?

1. How does Solar PV work?
Solar PV systems use semiconductor technology to convert sunlight directly into electricity. They can be used in conjunction with the existing electricity grid, known as an 'on-grid system,' through net metering and interconnection with the local utility. Solar PV systems can also provide electricity independent of the electricity grid, known as an 'off-grid system,' with batteries typically providing the needed storage and backup for times when the sun is not shining. On-grid systems can also be equipped with batteries to provide a home or business with electricity when the grid goes down. Photovoltaic systems come in a range of sizes and types, commercially available from a number of companies.

2. What are the most appropriate applications for Solar PV?
Solar PV systems can be used for a broad range of applications, including: electricity for homes, businesses, schools, irrigation and/or water pumping, street lights, highway signs, electric fences, remote cabins, off-grid homes, recreational vehicles, etc. The possibilities for distributed solar PV are virtually limitless. Solar PV can also be used for larger utility-scale power projects, which provide centralized power for the grid. As demand for energy continues to rise, more utilities are exploring opportunities to develop large-scale solar PV power plants.

3. What factors should I consider before investing in a Solar PV system?
Investing in a solar PV system is a longer-term investment decision that should take into account a number of factors, including: your current energy usage, opportunities to reduce your consumption through energy efficiency measures, rising costs of energy, fuel price volatility, self-sufficiency, improvements to your home/business, educational opportunities, cost and/or available incentives.

4. What is the expected life of a Solar PV system?
A well-designed and maintained PV system will operate for 20-30 years. Batteries typically last 15 years and should be used according to their operating specifications to maximize their life.

5. How much system maintenance is required?
PV systems require much less maintenance than conventional power generators; and, the amount and type of maintenance performed directly affects performance and lifetime of a system. Routine maintenance can be performed with common tools and common sense. Checking connections, fluid level in batteries, shading of modules, etc., can be accomplished in a few minutes on-site. Your installer should provide you with a maintenance plan.

6. Where can I find a local solar installer?

Click here for Questions to Ask an Installer and considerations before selecting an installer.

7. How much does Solar PV cost?
The cost of solar depends on the application, technology, size, and available incentives. The table below provides typical costs, before and after incentives; however, these prices change over time and each installer offers different services and prices. It is best to get 2-3 estimates before making your investment decision.

Solar PV	Size	Installed Cost (before incentives)	*Installed cost (after incentives)¹*
Residential
	1 kilowatt	$8,000 - $10,000	$3,150 - $4,200
Commercial
	50 kilowatts	$150,000 - $200,000	$75,600 - $107,100

1 Assumes all available incentives in Utah, including state tax credit, federal tax credit, and utility incentives. See Solar Incentives for complete details.