The photovoltaic (PV) industry has been booming over the last few years, and most people know what solar photovoltaics are, as they can be seen on rooftops throughout the state. As the price of electricity rises, more and more of us are considering PV systems for our own homes. Because a PV system is a big investment, we should do our research before committing to a specific solar provider, especially since PV companies are a dime a dozen.

So what should we be concerned about when considering PV? First of all, what qualifies a company to install a PV system? The proper licensing is a necessity. To install PV, a C-13 electrical license is a must. There are a few ways to check online if a company has the proper licensing. Searches can be done through http://pvl.ehawaii.gov/pvlsearch/app or http:// hawaii.bbb.org. A qualified electrician can tell you if your service needs to be upgraded, if your grounding system is up to par or if any electrical modifications should be made to accommodate the PV system. After all, you will be producing your own power and there is a lot of electrical wiring involved.

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Next, getting several estimates from different companies is always a good idea. From these estimates, we can compare pricing and materials. Are the materials being used comparable to one another? Some companies may use roof flashings, while others may not. A properly installed flashing will ensure a leak-free roof penetration. After all, the bigger the system, the more roof penetrations will be made.

Another important factor to consider is the PV panel manufacturer. PV panel manufacturers also are a dime a dozen. Manufacturers may specify certain specifications for their panels, but how long have they been producing solar panels? Alternative Electric proudly installs Solar World Sun Modules. Solar World is America’s largest solar manufacturer with more than 35 years of experience in the solar production industry.

A PV system is a wise investment, but it’s more than just installing panels on a roof. Homeowners should do their homework before installing a system. After all, a PV system should last at least 25 years. Time spent researching will pay dividends for the life of the PV system.

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For a free PV estimate/consultation, give Alternative Electric a call at 630-6741 or 285-3663.

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