Where is the best location to install a solar array?
A south-facing location that is free from obstruction or shading is best to optimize solar generation.
Is the energy production from a solar array the same year-round?
Generation varies by season. Solar panels generally produce significantly less energy during the winter months than they do during the summer months. This is due to shorter daylight hours and more cloudy days.
How do I track how much energy is being produced from my solar array?
This information can be obtained from your inverter. Your solar contractor will be able to assist you in obtaining this information from your inverter. Please note: any power that is generated from your solar array and used within your home will not be reported on our electric meter.
What is net metering and how does is get reported on my electric bill?
Once the installation and inspection of the solar array has been completed, we will change your meter to a net meter to record bidirectional usage and production. The recordings are instantaneous. Anytime your solar panels produce electricity that you are not using in your home or office, the excess generation will be put back on the grid. You will see a credit line on your monthly billing statement for any excess generation.
How big of an array will Cherryland Electric Cooperative allow under the Net Metering program?
The size is limited to your annual kilowatt hours of energy used or at maximum a 20-kilowatt array.
How do I find out what my annual kilowatt hours are?
You can obtain your annual kilowatt hours data by accessing your account online through Smarthub or calling Cherryland Electric Cooperative and speaking with the energy use advisor. You can also identify if your annual kilowatt hours are seasonal (i.e., are you using more energy in the winter due to heating or in the summer due to cooling?) and if the usage is predominantly during the daytime hours or in the evening/overnight hours.
What additional questions should I ask a solar contractor before signing contract?
We recommend you ask questions regarding their installation timeline and process, frequency of communication during the installation process, timeliness of warranty and follow-up work if there is an issue, and assistance with paperwork processing for loans and tax credits.
Should I get multiple quotes for the solar array before signing the contract?
Yes, we recommend getting at least three quotes from the list of solar contractors on the Michigan Saves website.
Should I get references from my solar contractor before signing the contract?
Yes, ask for references from customers who have used the contractor to install solar arrays in an area served by Cherryland Electric Cooperative. Also, ask how many arrays they have installed in the co-op service territory within the past three years.
I am interested in a quote for solar panels. Who should I contact? Please let me know. Thank you, Denise Genoa
Hi Denise – there are several local installers that are all great to work with. If you want some help finding them and knowing what questions to ask, give Tammy Haworth in our office a call and she can assist you. Her number is (231) 486-9261 or email her at [email protected].
Awesome post! The best location to install a solar array depends on various factors such as the amount of sunlight the location receives, the orientation and angle of the panels, shading, and available space. Generally, the ideal location for a solar array is an area that receives maximum sunlight throughout the day, with minimal shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions. Additionally, the orientation and angle of the panels should be optimized to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. A professional solar installer can help determine the best location for a solar array based on specific site conditions and energy needs.