Solar Inverters: How do they work and what type is right you?
Grid-tied solar inverters are not as sexy as solar panels, but they are arguably the most important part of a solar electric system. Inverters perform two primary functions: 1) Convert solar DC power to AC power, which we use in our buildings 2) Are a safety mechanism that shuts off system when the grid goes […]
How Do I Know My Solar System is Working?
The Answer: On-line web-based monitoring – and, it has multiple benefits.
Two Reasons Solar Transcends Politics: Jobs & Energy Diversification
Solar creates jobs: Solar job rate growth nationally over the last year by 6.8% Job rate growth otherwise nationally is only 0.7% Number of workers in the U.S. solar industry is greater than 100,000. Number of workers in the coal mining industry equals 79,500. Fossil fuels are high in emission and are imported from out […]
Six Things to Know When Considering Solar for Your Business in the St. Louis Region
1) Your Current Energy Use – Clients that understand their current energy usage (kilowatt hours per month) are best positioned to gauge how much solar will meet their energy savings goals. Implementing additional energy efficiency measures with your solar system will further enhance your investment and the environmental benefits. 2) Building Ownership – It is more straightforward […]
How Efficient is a Solar Panel?
The short answer is 14 – 20%. That means that nearly 20% of the sun’s energy that hits the panels is converted to electricity to enter your home or business. Let’s put solar power efficiency into context compared to another typical energy user that most of us use every day. A gasoline vehicle is 14 […]
Cash for Your Solar Credits
We have good news! In 2012, Ameren Missouri will pay you for the energy your solar panels produce. If you already have your system installed – great! You are already in queue to have Ameren Missouri buy your energy for $50 per SREC (solar renewable energy credit). If you accept the offer, Ameren will pay […]
Jeff Schmidt Named Director of Design and Technology
Dane Glueck, President of StraightUp Solar, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jeff Schmidt to Director of Design and Technology. Jeff has over 30 years experience in electrical design and with his NABCEP Certification makes StraightUp Solar the leading contractor in Missouri with Certified Installers. Jeff Schmidt is a graduate of the Washington University […]
Solar vs. fossil fuels: Life Cycle Analysis
Many of us think solar power is better for the environment than fossil fuels, but don’t know exactly in what way or how much. To help sort out the real environmental impact of solar photovoltaics (PV), StraightUp Solar looked at the life cycle analysis of solar systems compared to fossil fuels. Once installed, solar panels […]
All or Nothing Does Not Apply to Solar
We don’t have to get all of our energy from solar power. We don’t have to solve all of our economic or environmental struggles with solar. And, we don’t have to spend all of our money or fill up our entire roof with solar. That’s the beauty of solar: We can make a choice to […]
Answers to questions we’re often asked
Question: How many solar panels can fit on my roof and how much will the system produce? Answer: Though every residential roof is different, here are some simple guidelines to get you started. 1. Solar panel’s DC power rating equals approximately 15 watts/square foot. 2. 70% of roof space is typically usable for panels. 3. In […]
