Solar Panels & Rooftops for Homes in Pennsylvania

Building-Integrated Photovoltaic

• Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems blend solar cell technology with building components, including roofing shingles, slate, metal and other roof coverings, to create a source of solar energy for homes. BIPV technology works by the sun's radiation striking a crystalline silicone solar cell attached to the surface of the slate or shingle. The shingle or other component alone does not produce enough power to power a small window fan. However, when hundreds of square feet of roofing materials cover the surface of a home, the system generates enough energy to power the entire home. The installation process works similar to other roof covering methods, except an electrician wires the system to provide electricity for the home.

Rooftop Photovoltaic Systems

• Many Pennsylvania homeowners install rooftop photovoltaic (PV), which consist of PV modules attached to mounting rails secured to the roof rafters. Owners should ensure the home is energy efficient, including adequate building insulation and energy-efficient appliances, lighting and windows, before installing PV systems.

  The basic technology consists of PV panels or modules, which range from 10 to 300 watts each. Wiring the modules together produces the desired electrical power output. The panels store energy in deep-cycle solar batteries, which supply power to certain circuits or even the entire home. An inverter converts direct current energy to alternating current to power everyday household appliances. Some homeowners choose to connect their solar power systems to the local utility grid. Excess energy from these systems feeds into the grid and earns homeowners credit toward their power usage.

Pennsylvania Solar Incentive

• In late 2010, Pennsylvania passed legislation to fund the $100 million Pennsylvania Sunshine program to fund commercial and residential solar energy projects for homes and businesses. Residents must pay a $100 application fee for the rebate, except for homeowners who have an income level at 60 percent of the state's median income. The system installer must submit the rebate request before starting the project. The project must have a minimum energy output size of 1 kilowatt up to a maximum of 10 kilowatts. The program computes the rebate on a maximum of 35 percent of the system's cost but does not cover the cost of solar batteries for the system. The amount of the rebate depends on the size of the system.

Federal Solar Incentive

• The Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit allows homeowners in Pennsylvania and in other states who install renewable energy systems, including solar energy, to receive a federal personal tax credit. The rules state that homeowners can claim a credit up to 30 percent of the "qualified expenditures." The homeowner must use the property as a residence. The tax credit covers site preparation, equipment, labor and other components required to connect the system to the home's electrical system. The credit remains in effect through December 31, 2016.