Solar Power Frequently Asked Questions
How do solar systems work?
Why go green?
How does solar power affect the environment?
How can I install a solar system on my roof?
Will these solar panels continue to work during severe weather or wintertime?
Can these systems still generate energy on a cloudy day?
What does the future hold for solar technology?
What is the timeline for completion of National Grid’s large scale solar projects?
Does National Grid have any experience with solar power?
How much electricity will be produced by these systems?
How long will these systems last?
Why does National Grid prefer solar rather than other renewable energy sources?
How are Massachusetts authorities working with National Grid to advance solar energy in the Commonwealth?
What does National Grid have planned for beyond these five projects?
How do solar systems work?
Photovoltaic (PV) systems consist of silicon cells that collect energy from the sun and convert it into direct current electricity. This electricity is fed through an inverter to become alternating current (AC), the same form of electricity that is used in homes and businesses and serves some portion of the home or business’ electricity needs. If there is excess, this electricity may then pass through a transformer which increases the electricity’s voltage so it can travel from the generation location to other nearby homes and businesses.
Why go green?
Green energy is both plentiful and clean. Development of renewable energy can provide clean fuel for years to come without restricting the economy. In addition, green energy significantly reduces the harmful impact of fossil fuel emissions on our planet. This will help ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations.
How does solar power affect the environment?
Solar power emits no greenhouse gases and thus, when used in place of non-renewable resources, it significantly reduces emission of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and other greenhouse gases. A reduction in these emissions helps to provide a clean lower and upper atmosphere and prevents damaging health and long-term climate effects.
How can I install a solar system on my roof?
There are many solar integration companies who can help you install solar generation on your property. To learn more about how to install your own solar system, refer to the Commonwealth Solar Initiative section on Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and to renewable subsidies on www.dsireusa.org.
Will these solar panels continue to work during severe weather or wintertime?
Solar panels are fastened to the ground or rooftop, and are designed to withstand severe winds. As long as the sun reaches the surface of the silicon cells, power is generated for a PV system.
Can these systems still generate energy on a cloudy day?
Solar PV systems will generate less power on a cloudy day, but will still work. The installer will usually place the PV system facing toward the south to collect the most sun and choose a location for the system that minimizes shade and maximizes direct sunshine throughout the day.
What does the future hold for solar technology?
As the efficiency of harvesting solar energy increases with better technology, solar power will be more important in future energy markets. It is a limitless resource, unlike fossil fuels, and as installation costs continue to drop it will be energy of choice in the future.
What is the timeline for National Grid's large scale solar projects?
National Grid first filed for these projects on April 23, 2009 and the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) pre-approved the projects on October 23, 2009. Construction will begin in February 2010, and the systems are expected to be completed in summer 2010.
Does National Grid have any experience with solar power?
Yes! National Grid has been working with solar power for over 20 years. We have connected approximately 4.7 MW of solar generation to the New England electricity system. In addition, we have administered installation of over 1,700 photovoltaic systems in New York.
How much electricity will be produced by these systems?
Overall, our five pilot projects will produce enough electricity to power approximately 750 New England houses annually.
How long will these systems last?
The equipment is expected to work for at least 25 years.
Why does National Grid prefer solar rather than other renewable energy sources?
Solar power has many advantages over other renewable energy technologies. Solar panels are durable and long lasting and require little annual maintenance. The panels are also small and silent and will not disturb neighbors. Solar panels can also be installed anywhere there is a decent amount of sunlight, with little need for permitting compared to other renewable generation, making for many potential sites.
How are Massachusetts authorities working with National Grid to advance solar energy in the Commonwealth?
The state of Massachusetts has set strident solar goals in the Commonwealth. The July 2008 Green Communities Act set an aggressive renewable portfolio standard (RPS) of 25% by 2020, which means that power providers for the state will need to provide up to 25% of its electrical load from renewable energy by 2020. In addition, the law allows utilities to install up to 50 megawatts of solar generation. Governor Deval Patrick subsequently set a goal to install 250 MW of solar power by 2017. National Grid hopes to partner with the Commonwealth in meeting these aggressive targets.
What does National Grid have planned for beyond these five projects?
These initial five projects are serving as a pilot to test the potential of large-scale solar sites to generate clean energy. We expect to use the results of this first wave of projects to guide us to bigger and better renewable energy developments in the future.
Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us.
