SolarXpo 101

Solar energy has a rich history and has become one of the most transformative sources of renewable energy in recent decades. The foundation of solar technology dates to the 19th century when scientists discovered the “photovoltaic effect,” the process by which sunlight is converted into electricity. In 1839, French physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel observed that certain materials produced small electric currents when exposed to light, marking the early stages of solar research.

By the 1950s, researchers at Bell Labs in the United States developed the first practical photovoltaic (PV) cell, which could convert sunlight into enough power to operate small electronic devices. These early solar cells had limited applications due to their high costs but found significant use in space technology, particularly for powering satellites, because they offered a reliable, renewable energy source.

The 1970s oil crisis renewed interest in solar energy as the U.S. government and other nations searched for alternatives to fossil fuels. Investment in solar technology grew, leading to innovations that gradually brought down costs. However, solar remained relatively niche until the early 21st century, when environmental awareness, concerns over energy security, and new policies incentivized clean energy solutions. This shift, alongside significant advancements in photovoltaic technology, led to a reduction in the cost of solar panels, making them increasingly accessible for homeowners and businesses.

In the last decade, rooftop solar has surged across the United States, largely driven by the falling costs of photovoltaic cells and the introduction of state and federal incentives. In addition, increasing electricity costs, net metering policies (which credit excess power back to homeowners), and technological advancements have made rooftop solar more practical and accessible.

Today, rooftop solar represents a rapidly growing share of the renewable energy market in the U.S., helping to drive the nation’s transition to a sustainable energy future. Homeowners are increasingly viewing rooftop solar to cut energy costs, gain price protection, gain independence from grid vulnerabilities and contribute to environmental sustainability. This confluence of economic, environmental, and technological factors has catalyzed the mainstream adoption of rooftop solar, positioning it as a key component of the modern energy landscape.

The growing interest in rooftop solar has led many homeowners to consider installing solar panels, but understanding the qualification process is essential before making this investment. Going solar isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision; it requires a thorough assessment of several factors to determine whether a property and its owner qualify for an effective and efficient solar installation.

The qualification process begins with evaluating the property’s solar potential. This includes assessing the roof’s orientation, tilt, and condition, as well as the amount of sunlight it receives. Ideally, roofs that face south, southeast, or southwest and receive ample sunlight throughout the day are best suited for solar. Additionally, a clear, unshaded area (or minimal shading) is critical to optimize energy production. Roofs that are in poor condition or nearing the end of their lifespan may need repairs or replacement prior to installation.

Another factor is energy consumption. Solar installers typically analyze a homeowner’s electricity bills to understand their average energy use, which helps determine the size of the system required to meet their energy needs. Households with higher energy consumption may benefit more from solar installation, as the savings from offsetting utility costs will be more substantial.

Finally, site inspections and technical evaluations are conducted by professionals to verify the property’s suitability and to design a customized system tailored to the home’s layout and energy needs.

By navigating this qualification process, homeowners can determine if solar is a viable, beneficial option, setting them on a path to cleaner energy and savings on electricity.