The times are changing and it’s more important than ever to think about the future and what decisions we make that may impact the environment for generations to come. With the immense advancements in technology, consumers now have smart, eco-friendly options to consider at their fingertips that will not only help save the environment, but also save money. One way that is growing in popularity is converting homes to solar energy. All Energy Solar, a locally owned company based in St. Paul, is doing just that for residents all over the Twin Cities.
CEO and Co-Founder Mike Allen has had a passion for solar energy and the technology behind it since he was a young boy with early memories of the conversation he heard between his parents and an architect when building their childhood home. At the time solar energy wasn’t a common practice, but the innovative technology caught his attention and his interest grew. He went on to study energy in college and then worked with numerous large, trailblazing companies during the solar boom. After gaining years of experience and knowledge, Mike and his brother, Brian, decided to start their own business in 2009, All Energy Solar, with the mission to design and build energy systems specialized for each individual customer, providing the highest quality of customer service and ensuring a healthy and innovative environment.
How Does Solar Power Work?
Solar power has been in use for over 50 years and during that time has become more efficient and affordable. Basically, sunlight hits the panels, generates an electrical current, which is fed into your home through your electrical panel. Solar panels can generate enough electricity to power your entire home.
Benefits of Solar Energy
Many people ask what the benefits are of converting their homes to solar energy. First and foremost, it’s a smart investment. You are actually getting a pay back. You will no longer be renting electricity from the utility company and paying each month with no control of the cost going up. Using the natural sun to generate electricity is a free energy source and doesn’t fluctuate in price or harm the environment. Your utility bill will drastically reduce or you may not even get one. “We as individuals can now control the energy source and feel at ease,” says Allen.
Another benefit is having energy independence. If there is a blackout in the neighborhood you are not dependent on the utility company getting the grid back up and running, leaving you powerless. This could take hours, days or even weeks. Homeowners with solar energy and battery storage have the security that their power is still up and running with the ability to take care of their family during these unforeseen times.
Common Misconceptions of Solar Energy
Living in the Midwest always brings up the question of solar energy not working due to the amount of sunlight, coldness and snow. This is not true; a solar panel system still generates electricity on cloudy days. In fact, Germany is the leading country per capita using solar energy and gets 20-30 percent less sun. In Minnesota we actually get the same amount of sunlight as Houston, Texas. As far as snow is concerned, light reflects off of the white snow and bounces off and hits the solar panels increasing the amount of light the solar panels receive.
Converting to Solar Energy
Getting starting is easy. The first step is speaking with a solar energy expert who will analyze your home using a satellite system to determine if your home is suitable for a solar energy system. This system will be able to see if there is any obstruction that may be in the way, such as a large tree that would hinder light to hit the panels. Once your home has been analyzed an expert team member visits your home and explains how it works, cost, the payback and answer any questions. Once a homeowner approves the project the construction begins with the installation of the solar power roof panels and technical equipment. The average timeframe from start to finish for a project is 4-6 months. Each project is different and depends on many variables that will be discussed at the home visit. The ideal season to begin a project is spring to ensure all components are set-up and ready for the fall season, but solar panel installations are done all year round.
All Energy Solar is a trusted leader in the solar energy industry. Providing clean, green, solar energy solutions for residential, commercial, agricultural, and government clients. All Energy Solar is one of the few full-service solar energy companies that are licensed as a building contractor as well as an electrical contractor. Also, NABCEP certified (North American Board of Certified Electrical Practitioners), the highest technical certification for solar photovoltaic installers and engineers.
To learn more or to get a free solar quote, call 1-800-620-3370 or visit www.allenergysolar.com.
