Dependable Solar Products FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is solar right for me?
A: In order to help you make that decision, DSP technical staff will work with you to review your energy use, suggest ways to reduce your energy consumption, and recommend different solar system options designed to fit your budget and lifestyle.

Q: Are there financial incentives available for installing a solar system?
A: Yes. The major utilities in Arizona provide a substantial rebate to customers installing solar systems for their homes or businesses. In additional State and Federal Tax Credits are available and solar systems are exempt from State Sales Taxes.

Q: What does it cost to obtain a quote on a solar system?
A: Quotes and a home site visit are FREE! Simply call Dependable Solar at (480) 967-7781 to talk with a solar representative.

Q: What does a typical solar system cost?
A: An entry-level solar system is 3 kilowatts and the cost is about $23,600.00, depending on installation conditions at the site. This system will provide an average of 15 kilowatts of energy daily (slightly more in the summer and less in the winter months).

Q: What will this 3 kW solar system cost me after all the rebates and tax credits?
A: The following is an example of the "out of pocket" cost at the end of the first year of service.


Base solar system cost   $23,600
Utility rebate   ($9,000)
Federal Tax Credit   ($2,000)
State Tax Credit   ($1,000)
Estimated first year energy savings (not guaranteed)   ($570)
Net cost at end of first year   $11,030

Q: Does the performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels degrade over time? If so, how much?
A:
Yes, the performance of PV panels degrades very gradually over time. A rule of thumb for estimating the degradation is to expect 0.5 percent, that is, ½ of one percent degradation per year throughout the life of the panel. Actual results often reflect much less degradation.

Q: Can my HOA prohibit my use of solar?
A: No. Not in Arizona! (Regulations in other States will vary.) The Arizona Legislature recently passed a bill prohibiting homeowners’ associations (HOA) from restricting the installation or use of solar energy devices. The legislation only authorizes an HOA to adopt reasonable regulations on the placement of the solar energy devices. For the full text of the bill, HB 2593 provides the text in a PDF formatted file.

Q: How can I learn more about solar?
A: Just fill out the form on our Contact Us page or give us a call at (480) 967-7781 and one of our solar representatives will be happy to explain how solar works. We also have a showroom and warehouse where you can actually see the products that we sell. Please call to make an appointment before coming to visit us at the address and phone number listed below.

Q: What other resources do you recommend for learning about solar?

A: The following links should help you: 

 

EGIA Approved Contractor
Electric & Gas
Industries Association
Better Business Bureau
ASEA - Arizona Solar Energy Association
Arizona Solar
Energy Association
AZ League of Conservation Voters
Arizona League of
Conservation Voters
AriSEIA - Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association
Sustainable Arizona
Sustainable
Arizona

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