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*Photovoltaic Solar Systems*

What are Photovoltaics?

Photovoltaics or PV (also known as solar electric) systems are an energy investment in the future. A PV system converts energy from the sun into electricity using PV panels. PV systems can reduce the amount of electricity purchased from your utility company and enable some customers to even sell power back to their utility.

What makes up a Photovoltaic System?

PV systems are made up of three components; the PV panels or modules, the inverter and the electric meter.

SOLAR MODULES: produce "DC" (direct current) electricity when exposed to sunlight.

INVERTER: Converts the " DC" (direct current) to "AC" (alternating current) electricity that is usable in your home.

METER: Records the net amount of electricity that you purchase.

Economic benefits that Photovoltaic offer

Significant incentives (rebates) for PV systems up to 10 kW in size.

Depending on the electric use (in kWh) and the size of the PV system, customers can produce a portion, or most of their electricity needs.

Installing a PV system "stabilizes" a portion of your energy costs, regardless of the fluctuating cost of fuel for generating electricity.

The Federal Government offers up to a thirty percent tax credit for residential and commercial customers. New York State offers residential customers up to a twenty-five percent tax credit.

Homeowners can take advantage of New York State's 15-year property tax exemption for solar energy systems.

The installation of a PV system may increase the value of your property.

If your residential PV system produces more electricity than your home requires, you can "bank" the excess electricity. This is called "Net Metering. "When surplus electricity is produced, your meter will run backwards and your utility company may issue a credit on your electric bill.

Business-owned PV systems are eligible for tax advantages, such as accelerated depreciation and a thirty percent Federal income tax credit.

PV System rebates are available for a wide range of sizes and outputs; from 250 to 10,000 watts (10 kW) of power.

Simplicity

Service and maintenance is minimal because PV modules have no moving parts. New equipment can easily be added to an existing system if power requirements change.

Environmental benefits

No fossil fuels are burned to generate your power. A 10 kW PV system has the potential of saving 64 lbs of SO2, 19 lbs. of NOx, and 14,500 lbs of CO2.

Durability

PV modules are designed to endure extreme temperatures and high winds and are resistant to moisture and salt in the atmosphere.

Reliability

PV systems perform in almost any environment. PV modules are typically guaranteed for twenty-five years, and can operate for up to forty years.

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