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Solar Power

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1. How does it work?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels are made of thin slivers of silicon coated in plastic and

sandwiched between layers of glass.  When sunlight hits the panel, direct current (DC) electricity is produced.  This DC current then passes through an inverter which converts it into conventional 240 volts AC to be used by your household appliances or fed back into the grid.  

2. Do I stay connected to the electricity grid?

Solar power is available in grid connected and off grid (stand alone) systems.  In urban areas, households and other buildings can remain connected to the electricity grid and don’t require any battery storage.  On a cloudy day, at night or if you use more power than you generate, you automatlically draw power from the grid.  If your system produces more electricity than you need, the surplus is fed into the grid for others to consume.  

3. Is my housesuitable for solar panels?

A solar panel system can be installed to most single and double story houses.  All you need is roof space with a generally northerly aspect and full sun throughout the year.  

Some buildings also require a frame to attach the panels at the most appropriate angle to capture sunlight.  Once the system is established it usually requires little or no maintenance other than the occasional check and clearing of panels.

4. Do I need a permit to install solar panels?

Yes, you will need a permit for solar panel installation.  You can find a copy of the permit here. 

5. How may solar panels would I need to run my house?

This depends on a number of factors including your energy usage, the amount of appropriate roof space available, how much you want to spend and what proportion of your

electricity you wish to generate.  

Most households find that 1-2 kW system is appropriate and a solar company will be able to confirm your needs.  Installing solar power is a great incentive to reduce your

energy consumption, which will therefore require a smaller system.

6. Why can't all my energy needs be met with rooftop solar panels?

The technology does not provide all of the characteristics necessary for a consistent electricity supply.  Primary limitations on complete residential solar supply include the ability to provide energy at all times; output can fall rapidly during cloudy weather and no electricity is provided during evening hours.

Employing a combination of energy efficiency and renewable energy such as solar can minimize the environmental impact of electricity use while maintaining reliability.  

7. How much can I save with solar panels?

An average 1 kW system can save up to $215 from your annual energy bill and more if you are able to export back to the grid, but this is merely an average and not a guaranteed savings.

8. What are the advantages of solar energy?

The energy source is free with minimal greehouse gases produced in making solar equipment.  

Solar units can be placed on buildings leaving land free for other uses or for added green space and require little maintenance.  

Solar technology assists those in remote locations that do not have grid access.  

9. Other options?

If solar panels are not a viable option in your current physical situation or financial circumstance, there are a range of other measures which can be implemented

immediately.  These include installation of insulation, energy efficient lighting, adopting a “turn off when not in use” policy and energy efficient appliances.  

10. What is the maximum system size AC or DC allowed?

Residential - 25 kW
Commercial - 525 kW

They cannot exceed 110% of annual kWh for both.  

11. Are batteries allowed or required for installation?

Batteries are allowed.

12. Is there a fee for submission of the interconnection agreement?

There is not a separate fee for the interconnection agreement.  

13. Are customers required to have general liability on their homeowners insurance?

Liability insurance is recommended.

14. Is a meter replacement required for solar panels?

Lansdale Electric will check and if the meter needs to be upgraded, it will be done so at no cost to the customer.  

15. Is a production meter required?

We utilize bidirectional meters. 

16. What is the Borough's buy back rate?

Buy back is at our cost around $0.07/kWh

17. Are placards required? What are the requirements?

Yes, details can be found at https://ecode360.com/34360728

18. Are there any special requirements for installation?

A Lansdale Borough Solar Permit is required.  This includes both building and electrical components.  Click here to view the permit.