 If you are thinking about investing in a Solar Electric system, This FAQ page contains basic information that can help you determine if solar is right for your home or business.
Solar Electric systems are a reliable clean means to generating power. They make use of the most abundant source of energy - The Sun!
What is a PV system?
Photovoltaics refer to the process of converting light or Photons into electrical Voltage and current. A PV system is an alternative reference to a Solar Electric system.
How does a Solar Panel produce electricity?
A solar panel is comprised of silicon wafers or a film that has been coated with Boran and Phosphorous which react with exposure to light. Solar cells are interconnected in series to produce the desired voltage and current at the solar panel output leads.
 How does a Grid-Tied Solar Electric system work?
The Solar Panels send and DC voltage to an Inverter which converts the DC or Direct Current into an AC or Alternating Current that is then routed to the Load Center or Breaker Box of the Home or Business. Excess electricity is sent back into the Utility Grid. Reverse metering is recorded as energy credits that are available during evening hours.
 How do I redeem my credits?
During evening hours, kilowatt hours used are deducted from the excess credits accumulated in the utility account. A system designed to reduce electricity purchased from the utility to at or near zero is often called a "Net Zero" system. "Net Metering" occurrs anytime the meter is running backwards recording energy production regardless of system size. What size system do I need?
The annual electrical use of a home or business is the basis for a system design. The size of the system also depends the the amount of electrical useage the customer would like offset with the system. In order to qualify for the CSI Rebate and Federal Tax credit, the system must supply a minimum of 20% of the annual electrical useage. Other factors that determine system size are availabilty of solar panel mounting surface and sunlight.
Is Solar Energy reliable?
Solar Technology has been utilized in Space Exploration and satellites since the begining of the space program. Solar powered data acquisition and communication equipment deployed in the 1980's are still operational. Panels over 50 years old are still producing useable electricity. A 25 year old panel can produce 80% of its rated output. The efficiency and cost of manufacturing has significantly improved in the last 5 years. Solar has never been so affordable and such a safe investment.
CSI and Utility warranty requirements for solar electric equipment:
Solar Panels - 25 years
Inverters - 10 years
Installation Labor warranty - 10 years
Which Panels do you work with?
Solar electric equipment intended for grid-tie use and be eleigible for CSI rebates must be tested by CSI in association with PG&E to meet specific quality and performance standards. Equipment which passes these test are included in an "Approved Equipment List". From that listing, Sonoma Solar has selected products PV panels, Inverters, and associated accessories for our system designs based on manufacturer reputation and experience in solar equipment production.
How do I get started?
1. Contact Sonoma Solar Inc. to set an appointment with an Energy Consultant for a Home Energy Use analysis.
2. The information collected from the Home Energy Use analysis is used to compile and estimate for a Solar Electric system and/or Energy Management Products that will provide the most electric bill savings for the money invested.
3. Once you get a customized quote, simply schedule a site survey with one of our Energy Consultants to measure the roof and start the plans for your new system.
Sales@sonomasolarinc.com Phone 707-620-0333
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 Dollars and SenseWhy Should I buy a Solar Electric System?
Solar Electric is an investment that makes sense in todays turbulant economy. How can I tell if my Home or Business is a good location for a Solar Electric System?
Most systems require about 100 square feet of area that is free from shading for about 5 hours a day. South and West facing roof surfaces or hillsides are considered ideal. North and East facing surfaces are sometimes depending on local terrain and solar panel mounting options.Note any possible sources of shade from nearby trees, roof vents or chimney.
Isn't Solar Energy expensive?
With todays Federal Tax icentives and CSI Rebates the initial investment can be reduced by almost 50%. The energy savings generated by the system often pays for itself in just over 10 years. If you sell your property before then, system cost is recoverd through increased home value.
How do I redeem my CSI Rebate?
A Sonoma Solar Inc. Energy Consultant will request copies of documents required by your local Utility in order to meet CSI requirements. We do all the work from there. The Rebate can be assigned to Sonoma Solar Inc. for an instant reduction on the system cost.
How much will my CSI Rebate be?
The amount of your rebate will depend on the AC kilowatt rating of your system. A system must produce a minimum of 1 kilowatt (1000 watts) of AC power to qualify for a CSI Rebate. The rebate amount is directly tied to the total number of new solar installations in the state. The more systems that are installed, the lower the rebate. Delaying a decision to go solar can add to system cost by through reduced rebates. For information regarding current CSI rebate schedule contact one of our Energy Consultants at 707-620-0333.
Additional CSI Rebate information: HTTP://GOSOLARCALIFORNIA.CA.GOV
What is the Investment Tax Credit (ITC)?
The ITC is a reduction in the overall tax liability of an individual or business that make investments in a variety of qualifying products or improvements. For Solar Electric and Water Heating the credit is 30% of the system cost. This credit has been extended for an additional 8 years.
How do I redeem my Investment Tax Credit?
A space on most Fedreal Tax return forms will be provided for deducting 30% of the system cost. Please consult with your Tax Advisor for detailed information.
Do I need a Permit?
Virtually all solar electric system installations require a county or city issued home improvement permit.
Is the Permit application process complicated?
Not for Sonoma Solar Inc. customers. Documents will be requested to begin the process, then we do all the work. We contact our customers as soon as the application is approved.
 Do I need to notify my Home Owners Insurance policy holder?
Prior to installing your solar electric system, we recommend you contact your insurance carrier to determine the impact on the yearly premium. Typically a solar electric system will impact your premium very little; hower, it is best to verify coverage at the start of your project. We recommend your Home Owners or Liability Insurance cover the cost of unexpected issues such as snow loads or falling objects.
Why choose Sonoma Solar?
1. Fully Licensed and Insured
2. Experienced Professional Technicians who are able to answer your questions about any aspect of the system operation.
3. Our business is employee owned and operated. We are naturally motivated to provide the best customer service in the industry. We take care of all the permits, rebate reservation, and we are on site during system inspection and sign-off.
4. Our Technicians are well equipted with the knowledge, tools and safety equipment to ensure a fast smooth efficient process.
5. At Sonoma Solar Inc. we employ a Continuous Improvement approach to Customer Service. We are always looking for ways to increase efficiency and reduce costs. We Track all project information from beginning to end to ensure complete customer satisfaction.
6. Our systems are pre-designed and ready to be permitted. We save you Time, and that saves you money.
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