The Promise – and Limitations – of Solar Energy

Solar panels have become very popular as a supplemental energy source for various reasons. For many, adopting a clean, renewable energy source helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels. For others, government and utility subsidies provide a powerful incentive to make the necessary up-front investment. And for those in areas where the energy grid might be unstable in weather events or high-usage times, solar provides an effective backup. But if you're thinking that solar power is your gateway to energy independence, solar panel systems alone may not be enough. Here's why.

Keep the Power on No Matter the Weather

Today, we tend to take our everyday lives for granted as technology leads us to quiet expectations. We expect the lights to turn on when we flip a switch, the TV to turn on when we press a button, and our cars to start when our fobs tell it to.

It is said that we don't realize we'll miss something until it's gone. There is no more true statement than when it comes to our home's electricity. One of the first thoughts racing through our mind is, "How long will it be out, and should I get ice for the refrigerator?"

When it happens during the holidays or in the event of a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) that lasts for days, the effects can be much worse. Now, you're faced with unhappy guests, no entertainment, and a household without heat or air conditioning. If you live in a smart home, much of your interconnectivity and the ability to manage your house is gone.

There is, however, a solution. It's called a backup generator, and it's designed for moments such as these, running your critical appliances and HVAC system. Here, we'll explore why more homeowners in Santa Rosa, CA, are turning to these generators in preparation for potential power outages. 

Discover How We Can Help You Navigate Title 24 Requirements 

As energy efficiency becomes more important for homeowners, thousands of families all over Sonoma County and the rest of California are turning to solar energy to make their homes and lifestyle more sustainable and eco-friendly. To aid them in this endeavor, Title 24, California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards, creates a foundation for new home constructions and renovations to minimize energy consumption.

While solar energy is a key player in meeting these goals, truly successful solar energy systems should have the right size to satisfy your unique energy needs. For this reason, we highly recommend enlisting an expert who can help you determine what kind -and size- of solar energy system will suit your new home the most and maximize your long-term savings.

Keep reading this blog to explore all the ways our team of professionals at Summit Technology Group will keep Title 24 requirements into account to guide you on the road to a more energy-efficient home.