Frequently Asked Questions
Honest, technically accurate explanations to common questions about residential and commercial solar systems.
System Sizing & Performance
Does solar generate electricity on cloudy or rainy days?
Yes. Solar modules operate on daylight (diffuse irradiance), not just direct hot sunlight. On heavily overcast days, generation typically drops to 25%–35% of peak capacity, but power generation continues throughout the daytime.
How much roof space is required for 1 kW of solar?
Approximately 80 to 100 square feet of shadow-free area per kilowatt for standard monocrystalline PERC modules. This includes perimeter spacing for maintenance and cleaning walkways.
What is the degradation rate of solar panels over time?
Tier-1 monocrystalline panels exhibit approximately 1% to 2% degradation in the first year, followed by an average linear degradation of 0.5% to 0.7% per year, ensuring ~80%+ power output at year 25.
Net Metering & Electrical Integration
How does net metering work with MSEDCL in Maharashtra?
A bidirectional net meter records both electricity imported from the grid and solar electricity exported to the grid. At the end of each billing cycle, your bill reflects net units consumed (Import minus Export). Surplus units roll forward within the financial settlement cycle.
Why does an on-grid system turn off during power cuts?
This is a mandatory safety mechanism called "anti-islanding" enforced by Indian electrical standards (CEA regulations). It prevents solar electricity from back-feeding into the grid lines and electrocuting utility technicians repairing the grid.
Maintenance & Warranties
How often do solar panels need to be cleaned?
In urban and semi-industrial areas with airborne dust, cleaning panels with plain water every 12 to 15 days is recommended to prevent soiling losses (which can otherwise reduce generation by 5%–15%).
What standard warranties cover the equipment?
Tier-1 solar modules include a 10 to 12-year product workmanship warranty and a 25-year linear performance warranty. String inverters typically carry a 5 to 10-year manufacturer warranty.
Have a Specific Project Question?
Our technical engineers are available to review your single line diagrams and site layout.
Contact Engineering Team