General - FAQs
Why should we switch to solar?
What should you consider when installing a solar plant?
Solar energy is a relatively valuable one-time investment. Therefore, when choosing a good solar plant, there are several important factors to consider. To determine the capacity of the solar system that best suits your needs, pay attention to the following points:
By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision about installing a solar plant that meets your energy needs effectively.
At what stage of construction should you contact the company for solar installation?
During the initial phase of house construction, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) does not provide a domestic connection (LT1A). Instead, a temporary connection is given for construction purposes. Only after the construction is completed and the wiring-related documents are submitted to KSEB will the existing electricity connection be converted to a domestic connection (LT1A). Legally, the process for solar installation can only begin after this conversion.
It is advisable to approach a reliable solar company with experience, financial stability, and expertise for the necessary survey and installation procedures. To minimize future costs, it is ideal to consult with the architect during the design phase of the house and incorporate a roof design that is suitable for solar installation. This proactive approach ensures that the roof is optimized for solar panels, making the installation process smoother and more cost-effective.
What capacity of solar power plant should be installed for a 2500 sq.ft. house with three bedrooms?
The capacity of a solar power plant is not determined by the number of rooms, the size of the house, or the number of electrical appliances used. Instead, for an on-grid solar power system, the capacity is decided based on the daily electricity consumption of the household.
For example, if your electricity bill shows 600 units consumed over two months, your average daily consumption is approximately 10 units. In Kerala, under current weather conditions, a 1 kWp solar power plant generates around 4 units of electricity per day. Therefore, if your house receives adequate sunlight, a 3 kWp on-grid solar system would be suitable to meet your energy needs.
This calculation ensures that the solar system is proportionate to your electricity usage, helping you maximize savings and efficiency.
How Much Roof Space is Required for Installing Solar? What Should You Know?
To install a 3kW solar power plant, a minimum of 250 sq. ft. of open, shadow-free rooftop space with ample sunlight is required. Readymade structures are now available, making the installation process more efficient and hassle-free. Among the most cost-effective options is an open terrace, as it provides unobstructed sunlight. However, if the roof is sloped, covered with sheets, or has limited space, a customized mounting structure is necessary. When constructing such a structure, it is essential to consider future maintenance and accessibility. Additionally, the cost of these structures, walkways, and protective coverings is generally not included in standard solar plant pricing, as it varies depending on the site conditions.
To preserve rooftop space, elevated mounting structures are recommended. The mounting structure is as important as the solar panels themselves, as it supports a system that lasts up to 25 years. Poor-quality structures may require frequent repairs, leading to additional costs over time. For sloped cement or concrete roofs, elevated mounting structures ranging from 3 to 9 feet are often used to minimize shading issues, ensuring better efficiency while providing space for easy cleaning and servicing. Walkways are commonly added for safe access to the panels.
To ensure safety and durability, it is crucial to confirm that chemical anchoring is used for secure mounting. Additionally, waterproofing materials help prevent leaks for up to a decade, while also sealing minor cracks that may appear over time. For metallic roofs with a thickness of 0.45mm, aluminum rail mounting structures are ideal, whereas fabricated iron structures are typically used for thinner metallic roofs. Walkways are also integrated into these installations to facilitate regular maintenance.
With the right installation approach and careful planning, solar energy can flow seamlessly from nature to your home, ensuring long-term savings and energy independence.
I live in a multi-story apartment building. Is it possible for me to use solar energy?
Yes, residents of high-rise apartments can also switch to solar energy, but there are some key factors to consider.
For example, let's say a resident named XYZ lives in an apartment in Ernakulam (B) and consumes 300 units of electricity per month. Since he cannot install a solar system in his apartment, he decides to set up a 5 kW solar power plant at his house in Thiruvananthapuram (A), where he owns a shadow-free rooftop of 450 sq. ft.
The solar plant at location A produces around 500 units per month, but the house consumes only 100 units. The remaining 400 units can be transferred to XYZ's apartment in Ernakulam (B) through the wheeling system, reducing the electricity bill there.
With this system, XYZ can bring both electricity bills down to the minimum tariff, paying only for any additional consumption beyond the generated solar energy.
This wheeling mechanism is highly beneficial for apartment residents or anyone who does not have sufficient rooftop space at their primary residence but owns another property where solar panels can be installed.
How to Choose a Solar Installation Company? What Should I Look For?
Never choose a solar installation company carelessly. Solar energy is a one-time investment, and it is crucial to ensure that your money is in the right hands. Here are the key factors you should consider when selecting a solar provider:
Experience and Reputation
Choose a solar provider with a proven track record and positive customer reviews. Reliability and long-term industry experience are essential to avoid costly mistakes. Check online reviews and ratings before making a decision. /p>
System Design and Installation
Select a company that can design and install a solar system that meets your specific needs and preferences. Evaluate their design capabilities to ensure they provide the best solution for your property.
Quality of Products
Make sure the company offers high-quality solar panels, inverters, and other components. Always check the warranty provided by the manufacturer to ensure durability and reliability.
After-Sales Services
Maintenance and servicing are crucial for the long-term performance of a solar plant. Choose a company with a good market reputation and ensure they are financially stable enough to support their customers in the long run.
Customer Support
Pick a solar provider that offers prompt and honest responses to your queries and concerns. Good customer service is essential for a smooth experience.
Cost and Financing Options
Compare the pricing and financing options offered by different providers. Evaluate the total cost, including installation, maintenance, and operational expenses. If you need flexible payment options, look for a company that provides EMI plans.
Experience with DISCOMs and Subsidy Programs
The paperwork and procedures related to solar installations can be time-consuming and complex. Choose a company that has extensive experience in handling government permits, approvals, and subsidy applications, ensuring a hassle-free installation process.
Did You Know?
As of March 2024, more than 1.25 lakh households in Kerala have installed rooftop solar systems to meet their electricity needs.
Why Should You Choose a Reputable Solar Company?
If you don't choose a trusted and experienced solar company, you might face financial loss and service issues in the future. A solar plant is a long-term investment that lasts up to 25 years, so after-sales service and maintenance are crucial. That's why it's essential to select a company with a strong market presence and proven reliability, ensuring they won't shut down within a few years.
For example, Moopens Solar, a company driven by a team of over 120 engineers, marketing staff, and technology developers, is dedicated to making solar energy more accessible to the public.
Established on August 31, 2012, Moopens Solar holds an ICRA rating of 18, reflecting its strong technical expertise and financial stability. With 35 MW of installed solar plants across India and abroad, Moopens Group has received multiple national and international awards. Impressively, 10 MW of projects come from repeat customers, showcasing high customer satisfaction and trust. Additionally, Moopens has a dedicated marketing and service team in every district of Kerala, ensuring seamless support for its clients.
Is Solar Panel Maintenance Easy? Do They Need Frequent Cleaning?
Maintaining an on-grid solar system is not very difficult, but having basic maintenance arrangements in place is essential.
How Can We Monitor the Performance of a Solar System?
By connecting the solar system to the internet, users can track their energy production and consumption in real time. Reliable solar installation companies should offer internet-based monitoring for accurate and smooth service support.
What is the Completion Time for a Solar Plant Installation?
The standard completion time for a solar plant installation (e.g., 3KW to 10KW) typically ranges from 15 to 21 working days. However, factors like weather conditions and additional structural work may cause slight variations in the timeline.
Warranty Support for Solar Customers
Most solar installation companies provide a 5-year onsite warranty. Additionally, manufacturers offer:
Moopens Solar's Service Coverage in Kerala?
Moopens Solar offers direct sales and after-sales support across all districts of Kerala. With a strong presence statewide, the company proudly serves over 6,000 satisfied customers.
