Nova Sun Power, Pictou, New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, solar and alternative energy, wind energy, thermal

Q. What is solar electricity?

A. Solar electric technology converts sunlight directly into electricity. It works anytime the sun is shining, but more electricity will be produced when the light is more intense (a sunny day) and is striking the panels directly (when the sun is perpendicular to the solar panels). Solar electric panels do not use heat to make electricity. Instead, solar electric panels produce electricity directly from electrons freed by the interaction of sunlight with semiconductor materials in the solar panels.

Q. How much solar electricity do I need?

A. Solar electric panels typically generate about 10 watts per square foot and the panels are mounted on your rooftop. The maximum amount of solar electricity that can be efficiently generated usually is determined by the amount of southerly roof exposure available that remains completely unshaded most of the day. Solar electric systems produce power intermittently because it only works when the sun is shining. This is not a problem for solar electric systems connected to a utility grid, because additional electricity you need is automatically delivered to you by your utility.

Q. Does my electric meter really spin backwards?

A. Here in Nova Scotia when you sell back to NSPI they replace the regular meter with a new digital one that measures power flow in two directions. If your alternative energy system generates as much power as you need then at the end of the year you have a zero balance to pay. If your system does not generate as much energy as you need then you will have a bill to pay the utility for the energy purchased to make up for the shortfall. If you generate more power then you consume (a surplus) the utility will not pay or credit you for it however, most residential grid connected systems are design so there is little or no surplus at the end of the year.

Q. Why should I buy a solar electric system?

A. People decide to buy solar electric systems for a variety of reasons. Some want to preserve the earth's fossil-fuel resources and reduce air pollution. Others would rather spend their money on an energy-producing improvement to their property than to send money to a utility. Some people like the security of reducing the amount of electricity they buy from their utility, because it makes them less vulnerable to future rate increases in the price of electricity. Finally, some people just don't like paying utility bills and appreciate the independence that a solar electric system provides.

Q. Is my home a good place for a solar system?

A. Is your roof free from shading by trees, nearby buildings, or other obstructions? Solar panels should face as close to south as possible and have a clear "view" of the sun for most or all of the day. Shading will substantially reduce the amount of electricity produced.

Q. Why should I have Sun Nova Power install my system?

A. Many solar companies are not experienced with solar electric system design and installation. Until recently most solar installations have been for solar swimming pool and water heating applications. Similarly, many electrical contractors, although proficient in typical electrical contracting work, may not have expertise in DC solar electricity or with roof-mounting techniques. Nova Sun Power has many years of experience working with solar electricity as well as penetrating and sealing roof penetrations. Nova Sun Power is properly licensed and insured.