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The Ultimate Guide to Hybrid Solar Panels

If you are interested in installing solar in your home or business, you might have heard the term “hybrid solar panels” during your research. What does that mean? Well, it essentially means that when you have a hybrid system it allows you to source energy from the grid if your panels don’t generate enough electricity to power your home.

Our solar pros explain more below!

What is a Hybrid Solar Panel System?

A hybrid solar system has all the benefits of a traditional solar panel system, but it has the added benefit of being connected to the grid. Having access to the electrical grid, a solar battery, and your solar panels means that you won’t have to rely on just one energy source.

Further, hybrid solar panel systems aren’t as expensive as you may think. They can save you money in the long run if your city takes part in a net metering program.

Advantages of a hybrid solar system:

• Greater value
• Electricity flow is maintained even during a blackout
• Reduces reliance on the grid
• Can connect to the grid at night or during cloudy weather

Is a Hybrid Solar System Right for You?

Deciding to install solar panels in your home or business can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, that’s what Solar Bear Orlando is here for. We will help you during the entire process!

Solar is great if you want to:

• Utilize renewable energy
• Decrease your energy bill
• No longer rely solely on the grid
• Sell back extra solar-generated electricity to your utility company

If this sounds great to you, a hybrid system may be the right choice for you.

Remember, if it is nighttime, overcast, or there is bad weather, your panels won’t be able to convert solar energy into electricity. This is where a hybrid system is beneficial! You can still power your home or business with the electrical grid at night or during overcast days.

How Hybrid Solar Panels are Different

An off-grid solar system and a hybrid system work the same way; they both convert solar energy into DC power through the photovoltaic (PV) effect.

This DC power is then stored in a solar battery or runs to a solar inverter where it is converted to AC power, ready to power your home and appliances.

Both options will cut down on your utility costs, and they both have their benefits. But, if you live in the city of Orlando, you will need to have a grid-tied or hybrid solar system if you plan to go solar.

The Reliability of Hybrid Systems

You will use less electricity with a hybrid solar system, and you will have access to the grid if you need it. While today’s highly-efficient solar panels will maximize the amount of energy that you can produce in a day, a hybrid solar system gives you access to power on the days when the sun isn’t shining.

Also, you can store/sell back your excess energy to further lower your utility costs. If you were completely off-grid, you would not have this option.

The Bottom Line

Hybrid solar systems are becoming the new standard for modern homeowners who want to go green and save big on their electricity bills. Hybrid solar systems give you the best of both worlds—access to solar energy and the grid—making them a solid investment.

Go Solar with Solar Bear Orlando

Ready to install a hybrid solar system at your Orlando or Central Florida home or business? Our team can help you decide which solar system is right for your needs and energy goals.

Call Solar Bear Orlando to schedule a solar installation consultation today; (727) 471-7442!

Are Solar Panels Actually Worth It? 5 Things to Know So You Can Decide

The idea of saving money with solar panels is enticing, but are they actually worth it? If you live in Texas, you’ll discover that you are in the best position to invest in solar panels! Before you call the experts at Solar Bear Dallas, here are 5 things to know so you can decide whether or not solar panels will be worth it for you:

1. The Payback Period for Solar Panels

Most people know that solar panels pay for themselves in time, but how much time will that take? While the national average is around 9-15 years, the states with the highest energy consumption rate tend to see a much shorter payback period of around 6 years. While Texans may not take pride in the fact that their home state falls within the top ten states that use the most energy in the country, this can work to your advantage as you’ll see the savings sooner rather than later.

2. Sun Exposure in Texas

When it comes to solar paneling, sun exposure is extremely important. Some states don’t get enough direct sunlight to warrant solar energy usage, but thankfully Texas is one of the few states that receive the most exposure to the sun year-round along with California and Florida. One additional note to keep in mind is the angle of your roof. Even if you live in a state with plenty of sunlight, it won’t matter if your roof isn’t angled in a way to catch the UV rays.

3. Federal, State, and Local Incentives

While Texans can already experience a shorter payback period compared to other states, you can also receive incentives for your solar panels. These incentives can come from a federal, state, or local source and many of them are substantial. One of the more popular programs is the federal solar tax credit. This is also referred to as the Clean Energy Credit which can cover up to 30% of the installation cost which is an incredible deal! For information on more incentives, you can always consult your local solar panel experts.

4. Texas’ Role in the Environment

As mentioned earlier, Texas happens to be one of the top states with the highest energy usage in the country. Many Texans are working to fix that problem by installing solar panels, and you can help the cause by equipping your own home with the ability to gather solar energy. Once the state starts seeing a noticeable change, you can take pride in the fact that you had a hand in making your home state a nicer place to live.

5. Affordability and Accessibility

If you’re worried about not being able to afford solar panels, you’ll be glad to know that the cost of solar panels has dropped tremendously over the past few years. And if you go to the right people, you can find affordable pricing with flexible financing options.

The Best Solar Panels in Texas

The experts at Solar Bear Dallas want a clean and bright future for all of Texas which is why we offer the best solar panels with the most affordable pricing. We have many financing options available so you can pay in a way that’s easiest for you. Give us a call at (727) 471-7442 for a free quote!

9 Industries That Benefit Greatly from Commercial Solar

Many residential homes have solar panels installed to help promote a greener environment while saving money on electric bills, but did you know that commercial buildings can also benefit from solar energy? In fact, many industries have adopted solar panels as an essential part of their building’s structure because it almost seems irresponsible not to utilize solar energy. Here are just a few of the industries that benefit greatly from commercial solar, put together by your friends at Solar Bear Houston:

1. Educational Facilities

It can be difficult for some schools to gain adequate funding, but solar panels can help with saving money that can be put back towards the student’s educational needs like books and sports equipment. Solar energy can also keep the power going during an outage, so courses won’t be interrupted.

2. Healthcare Services

Hospital equipment can take up a lot of energy, and it’s crucial to make sure that they receive the power they need to stay up and running. Some machinery involving life support can literally be a matter of life and death but having solar energy on reserve can keep that equipment going for those who are relying on it.

3. 24-Hour Gas Stations and Convenience Stores

Any business that relies on energy 24/7 can save so much money on the electric bill with the help of commercial solar panels. Many customers with hectic or irregular schedules rely on these all-day and all-night services for their basic needs, so making sure that these facilities stay running indefinitely is extremely important. Solar panels act as a reliable backup source of energy to keep gas stations and convenience stores going for those busy bees.

4. Retail Stores

Many big-name retail stores are starting to see the benefit of upgrading to solar energy. Even with limited hours, it takes a great deal of energy to keep the lights running while ensuring that the air conditioner reaches all areas of the building. Not only do solar panels cut costs for such a high demand for energy, but businesses that utilize solar energy tend to receive positive reviews for helping the environment.

5. Manufacturing Companies

No matter what is being manufactured, every factory uses a large amount of energy to run the machines, equipment, and lights. For an extra boost of energy for an efficient facility, solar panels can be used to ensure smooth sailing.

6. The Hotel Business

For all hotel business owners, the safety and well-being of their guests take priority over everything else. If the power goes out, it can cause panic for everyone who is staying the night which can leave a bad impression on them for future reservations. By having solar panels as a backup energy source, you can ensure safety for all of your guests even during a blockwide power outage.

7. Automotive Service Shops

For the average human, it’s impossible for us to handle the weight of a vehicle. This is why auto shops rely on hydraulic lifts whenever they need to work on the underside of a car. On top of that, auto shops use pressure washers and high-powered vacuums to have your car looking good as new. All of this equipment takes a great deal of energy, and so solar panels can ensure that you have the energy you need to keep your business open for the day.

8. Data Storage Facilities

During this modern age, many of us have stopped using physical storage devices in favor of more convenient cloud storage. However, the files that you upload to the cloud are still kept in a data storage facility. These facilities need to be kept up and running around the clock and solar panels can give you the means of uninterrupted energy.

9. Physical Storage Warehouses

Aside from data storage, physical storage warehouses also require nonstop energy in order to preserve all of the items being held inside. This is especially true for cold storage where things need to be always kept at a certain temperature. Again, solar panels can keep that power from being uninterrupted so your goods can stay protected.

Get Commercial Solar Paneling in Houston, Texas!

Need commercial solar panels for your business in Houston? Solar Bear Houston has everything you need from quality solar panels installed by skilled and licensed contractors. Call (727) 471-7442 today for a free estimate!

Top Cities for Solar Energy in Florida

Home of beautiful beaches and ample sunshine, Florida is an optimal location to switch to solar.

But which city is ranked the highest for solar output? Our team at Solar Bear Orlando is here to find out!

We’ve ranked the top cities in 2022 based on their solar energy potential and how much money their residents can save by going green. Ready? Let’s go!

Go Solar in These Florida Cities

Thinking of going solar in Florida? These are the cities with the highest solar energy potential.

Tampa, FL

The city of Tampa’s solar radiation is 3.2 kWh per square meter per day, higher than even Miami! It also has ample rooftops that are suitable for mourning solar panels. In Tampa, almost 80% of homes have flat roofs, making them optimal for solar installations.

Tampa residents are also eligible for several state and local incentives that help offset the cost of the installation.

Orlando, FL

The metropolis of Orlando has the second-highest population growth of any city in the state of Florida, and it is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. If you are looking to go solar in Florida, Orlando is a great place to live!

The city has an average of 4.6 kWh per square meter per day, making it the perfect place for a solar installation in Florida. The average home with solar panels in Orlando can be powered entirely by solar power on sunny days.

Miami, FL

Miami is a city full of sunshine, which means solar installations generate ample power during the day.

With over 400,000 residents and many well-established neighborhoods, there are plenty of places to install solar in Miami.

Tallahassee, FL

Tallahassee’s average irradiance is about 5.8 kWh per square meter per day, making it an ideal place for solar installations.

Tallahassee also has amazing solar rebates. You could get up to $5,000 back on a new solar installation!

Gainesville, FL

Gainesville has been nicknamed “the solar capital of Florida,” and for good reason! This college city has been ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States and a great place to go green.

Although there aren’t any state tax credits or rebates available for residential solar installations, there are plenty of ways to make solar energy in Gainesville more affordable, such as fixed-rate plans with $0 down and no financing fees.

Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers gets about 4.5 hours of sun per day on average, meaning that you can generate a lot of solar power during the day!

Fort Myers doesn’t have a state sales tax, so if you are looking to save on solar and reduce your carbon footprint, Fort Myers is a great place to do it!

Sarasota, FL

More than 750,000 people live in the Sarasota-Bradenton metro area, and its renewable energy market is growing at a fast rate.

Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville ranks number 19 in the nation for top solar cities. The abundance of sunshine and local incentives makes choosing solar even more attractive. Solar panels are exempt from sales tax in Jacksonville, so you will save 6% right off the bat.

Clearwater, FL

An old city known for its culture and beautiful beaches; Clearwater offers a lot of tax credits for those switching to solar.

The average cost of installing solar panels in Clearwater is $3 per watt, meaning that it is easy to get started with green energy!

Learn More: 7 Common Solar Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Join the Solar Energy Movement

If you are interested in installing solar panels on your property in Central Florida and the Greater Orlando Area, call our team at Solar Bear Orlando! We will design a solar array that can optimally harness the energy from the sun and ultimately reduce your carbon footprint.

Call Solar Bear Orlando today for a quote at (727) 471-7442!