San Francisco Bay Area Solar Panel Installation
When it comes to saving money on energy bills, there are few better ways than installing solar panels on your property. Our team here at Cobalt Power Systems Inc. is committed to providing you with professional, high-quality services you can rely on so you can enjoy the benefits of solar power as quickly as possible.
Whether you are looking for a grid-tied PV, an energy storage system, or both, we can work with you to find the perfect solution for your needs. Our dedicated Bay Area solar installers have years of experience and are passionate about helping our community tap into the clean and plentiful power of the sun.
To learn more about your options for solar installation, give us a call at (650) 817-7791 or contact us online!
Benefits of Installing Solar Panels
It is difficult to overstate the benefits of bringing solar power into your home.
Just a few of the things homeowners with solar enjoy include:
- Savings from rebates and tax credits: There are federal tax credits being offered as an incentive to make the switch to solar. The federal tax credits are currently 30% of the cost of installation.
- Decreased utility costs: If there is anything that the state of California has in plenty, it’s sunshine. By taking advantage of the readily available solar power, you will decrease your monthly energy bills – possibly even eliminating them altogether.
- Increased property values: Solar panels can significantly increase your home’s value, and studies have shown that buyers are consistently willing to pay more for homes with PV systems.
- Contributing to environmental health: Harnessing solar energy means using fewer fossil fuels, which are not only limited and expensive but harmful to the environment.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Most solar panels are designed to have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. However, many panels continue to generate electricity even after this period, albeit at a slightly reduced efficiency. It’s important to note that the actual lifespan can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the panels, maintenance, weather conditions, and regular wear and tear.
California as a whole is blessed with a high average of sunny days every year, and the San Francisco Bay Area is no exception. With all of that sunshine, going solar makes a lot of practical and financial sense. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it to install solar panels, we’re here to tell you it most definitely is. With a carefully-designed solar system, you can harness all of that free energy from the sun, lower your carbon footprint, and promote greater energy independence, not to mention solar panels are a Smart way to add value to your home. If you have questions about the cost of solar panels, financing options, and current incentives, don’t hesitate to give us a call today.
Task #1. Pre-Installation. Inspect, then store purchased solar components in marked boxes in a secure, dry place.
Most solar suppliers have restrictions and deadlines when it comes to returns and exchanges, so as soon as the merchandise arrives:
- Inspect the material for shipping damage.
- Check for UL (Underwriters Laboratory) and other required certifications on the product labels.
- Make sure all wire and conduit is stamped on the outer covering with exactly the type you ordered (e.g. THHN is not equal to THWN-2).
- Inspect all components for signs of wear, warpage, poor seals or other defects. (Take photos, if necessary.)
- Measure the voltage on each of the modules in sunlight to make sure it delivers the rated open-circuit voltage.
- Find the product literature and make sure all the hardware and accessories are accounted for.
- Confirm that the warranty periods are the length you expect.
- Make sure there’s an installation guide and engineering specs included with the modules, racks, mounts, inverter and electrical devices.
After measuring voltage on the modules, be sure to re-cover the module glass with its packaging, then leave that in place until the installation.
Task #2. Pre-Installation. Read the installation guides
The NEC and most AHJ’s require that solar components be installed according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. That’s because the product engineering specs are based in part on the method of installation used. A building inspector on site may ask to see one or more of these guides, or other product literature, so be sure you insert all the documenation in your construction binder. The binder should contain:
- product literature, warranties and installation guides
- copy of all permit application materials and approvals
- system sizing worksheets
- tax credit and/or loan requirements for the installation
- contact phone numbers
Take plenty of time to read the literature before you start the installation. Use the instructions to write out a to-do list. This will allow you to lay out your equipment, hardware and tools in an organized manner as you move through each task For instance, installing a mount requires a certain size socket or drill bit, while attaching wire to terminals requires a specific amount of torque when tightening the screws. And don’t forget to review all the applicable codes discussed back in Step 2 of this tutorial.
Task #3. Pre-Installation. Devise a safety plan
Whether you’re working on your own home, or someone else is working on it, OSHA safety rules should always be observed. A lot can go wrong when installing a solar power system, like falling off a ladder or roof, or getting zapped with electricity or an arc blast. That’s why the OSHA guidelines are no joke. Even if a contractor is liable for any mishaps to the crew, your home is no place for a debilitating injury occur. As a property owner, you have the right to insist on compliance and to report major violations to a higher authority if necessary.
Here are the most common rules that should be observed on site:
- If a steeply sloped roof will hold the PV array, or the roof can’t accommodate fall protection fences along its edge, workers must wear a harness that’s latched to an anchor securely attached at the top of the roof. You can usually leave the anchor in place after the installation is complete. That way, workers servicing the equipment later can use it.
Always use some form of fall protection when working on the roof. Photos, Left:The Family Handyman, Right: simplifiedsafety.com
- Use the right size of extension ladder to access the roof, then and follow these rules of ladder safety. The ladder should be secured to the top of the roof.
For every 4 feet of height, the base of ladder should be 1 foot away from the side. The ladder should extend at least 3 feet above the roof, so you can grip the extra rails as you climb off or onto the surface.
- Each worker should use a hard hat, gloves, lightweight shoes with rubber soles, safety glasses and any other relevant personal protective equipment (PPE’s). When working around dust or inside an attic, a dust mask must be worn.
- On hot days, work outdoors or inside an attic should start early in the morning. Workers must stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and never skip meals. (Too much water on an empty stomach dilutes the bloodstream, causing light-headedness.)
- When installing electrical components and wire, make sure the array circuit is disconnected, all device switches are in the off position, and there is no connection to the inverter or main panel (which comes last). Leave the wire home runs disconnected from the junction box or combiner.
- Only an electrician or other qualified person should perform work on the home’s main service panel. Remember, even after the main circuit breakers are switched off, power still flows to the bus bar from the grid.
Martin Technical
- Be sure you understand and implement lockout/tag out procedures when performing work on a circuit. Even without the padlock and flashy danger sign pictured above, you can get the message across. Use tape, a felt pen, plastic bag or whatever’s available to prevent others from energizing an electrical device while someone is working on the circuit.
For more info on working with electricity, check out the website Electricians’ Toolbox.
PV201 Solar PV Installer
If you plan on working in the solar industry in an installation role, you need this training!
This course will teach you how to install solar panels and the balance of components, including inverters, charge controllers, and battery banks for grid-tied and off-grid systems.
Learn How to Install Solar Panels
Once you’ve gained a solid understanding of solar energy principles, you’ll be ready for this solar panel installation course that takes a deeper dive into system components and installation technique. We’ll teach you how to actually install a solar PV system. i.e., the nuts and bolts of attaching the solar modules to the roof, wiring, installing electrical components, and evaluating the performance of the finished product.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Installer Certifications
In this section, we’ll cover some of the most frequently asked questions about solar certifications.
Why Are Certifications Important In The Solar Industry?
Unfortunately, not all solar installers are reputable or understand solar installation basics and the National Electrical Code. NABCEP certification allows installers a way to distinguish their knowledge to customers to earn trust.
In addition, motivated individuals can advance their careers and differentiate themselves from other applicants by obtaining certification. For example, it’s ideal for lead solar installers to have earned NABCEP certification.
What Are The Similarities And Differences Of Certifications Vs. Licenses?
In general, states require licensing to perform certain types of work, while certifications are voluntary. State and local governments created contractor licenses to impose specific standards and protect consumer safety. Unfortunately, many licenses are limited to a particular state. This makes it difficult for installers to move because their license may not be valid in a different state. One benefit of NABCEP certification is that it is nationally recognized and is not limited to a specific state or locality.
What Is The Difference Between The NABCEP PV Installation Professional And PV Installer Specialist Certification?
The PVIP certification has been around much longer and requires a broader range of knowledge, including maintenance and commissioning. It also has a greater training requirement and is a good idea for a lead installer or the owner of a PV company. By contrast, the PVIS certification focuses just on the installation end of things and has a lower training requirement.
However, there are also many similarities. For example, the exam covers similar information related to solar installation, and they both require an OSHA 10 card and solar industry experience. Also, both PVIP and PVIS certification are available through the NABCEP.
How Often Do Installers Need To Renew Their Certifications?
NABCEP certifications are valid for several years and then require recertification. The PVTS, PVIS, and PVIP certifications must be renewed after 3 years and have additional continuing education training requirements.
What Other Certifications And Courses Exist That Could Benefit Solar Installers?
A variety of community colleges, 4-year colleges, and universities offer accredited classes and degree programs for solar installers and renewable energy professionals. Some of these programs are very specialized and designed for a specific aspect of the industry, such as solar farm development or management. If you want to build your knowledge in a certain aspect of the solar industry, examine college programs. Often, there are online courses, which can eliminate the need to travel. In addition, some solar organizations offer hands-on training opportunities.
How Can Solar Certifications Shape Hiring New Employees?
Owners of solar companies may struggle to find qualified solar installers and often need to train new hires. Applicants with related certifications distinguish themselves from other candidates by showing a certain amount of knowledge and experience.
Also, having employees with certifications can help solar companies stand out in the market by going above and beyond what is required. Unfortunately, NABCEP-certified professionals are in high demand and are often difficult to find. Often companies pay for their employees to seek certification.
Another helpful strategy when hiring new employees is to look for trades professionals with related experience. For example, roofers often have transferable skills and are likely comfortable working at higher heights. Such experience may make it easier to train new hires and turn entry-level installers into experts more quickly.