Since the solar panels are the item most people focus one, they often assume that that’s where the predominant portion of the cost is. This assumption is a bit anachronistic. As little as four years ago, solar panels made up more than 50% of the cost of a turnkey solar array. Today (2013), panels make up less than 20% of…

It’s tempting to accept the premise that something has become a commodity and by extension to believe that there is little difference between one commoditized item and another. What are some examples of commoditized home improvements you might ask? Let’s use windows as an example. You might be tempted to rationalize that because Company A and Company…

Not everyone is a candidate for solar panels… And they may not be for you. Why? You may live in a condominium complex or other type of attached home and the HOA owns the roof and won’t let you install solar on it. You may be a renter. You may have an electric bill under $100 per month. You may live…

It’s true. Unfortunately some solar companies sell only a couple of system sizes, yet these systems (often on the smallish side of things) will eliminate 100% of everyone’s electric bill 100% of the time. And if you believe that, I have a bridge to sell you. Here’s the thing, if a solar company has told you a 2KW system will…

Although you won’t find it stated anywhere in your solar lease or ppa (power purchase agreement) contract or supporting documents, your 20 year ‘agreement’ has an implied interest rate and savvy consumers will ask the question, “How does the interest rate on this solar lease compare to that of other financing options available to me?” This question is of particular…

Homeowners are always looking for ways to save money on their energy bills. The tips provided here will help you cut energy costs now and in the future. Most are easy, inexpensive, or even free  to perform while others may require a certified professional. HelioPower always recommends tackling the low hanging energy fruit first in…

It’s true of just about anything you might buy. Chances are if you pay cash, you’ll get a better deal. In the current resurgent housing market, those having to deal with banks and property appraisers are at a distinct disadvantage when competing against cash buyers. The same is true for solar. This isn’t necessary because…

While there are many circumstances where these devices make a lot of sense, in many cases, it is not money well spent. You might be asking yourself: “Who benefits from microinverter and DC optimizer technology and who doesn’t?” The answer to this question isn’t complicated and can be reached by simply asking yourself: How will shade and a broken up…