Solora Solar University

As more homeowners adopt solar power, many are turning to solar batteries to maximize their energy independence and savings. A solar battery allows you to store excess energy produced during the day and use it at night or during power outages. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which battery […]

Washington state solar panel owners will soon benefit from a more comprehensive, long-term recycling solution thanks to the passage of Senate Bill 5175, a bill focused on strengthening and updating the state’s Photovoltaic (PV) Module Stewardship and Takeback Program. Boost to Recycling Infrastructure Originally launched in 2017, the program requires solar panel manufacturers to develop […]

Solar energy is one of the most promising renewable energy sources available today, but many people still wonder: How exactly is sunlight turned into usable electricity? The process may seem complex, but it’s based on simple science and smart technology. Here’s a step-by-step look at how solar energy is converted into electricity—and how it powers […]

With increased awareness of space weather events like solar flares, many homeowners considering solar power wonder: Could a solar flare destroy solar panels? It’s a reasonable question, especially with headlines warning of geomagnetic storms disrupting satellites and power grids. The short answer is: while solar flares can impact electrical systems, your solar panels are unlikely […]

When it comes to installing solar panels, timing can make a big difference — not just for energy production, but also for cost savings, installation availability, and financial incentives. While solar power delivers long-term benefits no matter when it’s installed, the best time of year to make the switch may be earlier than you think. […]

Solar technology has come a long way, and one of the most exciting innovations in recent years is the development of bifacial solar panels. These panels are changing the way we think about harnessing solar energy by improving efficiency and increasing power output. But what exactly are bifacial solar panels, and what makes them ideal […]

When it comes to investing in solar energy, understanding the tax benefits can be just as important as the environmental impact. One of the major advantages is the ability to depreciate the solar system on your taxes, potentially leading to significant savings. Depreciation Period & Rules The IRS allows businesses and individuals to depreciate the […]

As solar panels become more common, many homeowners and business owners wonder: Do solar panels get stolen? While solar theft isn’t widespread, it does happen, particularly in remote areas and off-grid installations. Given that solar panels are valuable and relatively easy to remove, they can be a target for thieves. However, there are several ways […]

As we turn the calendar to 2025, we are seeing solar energy adoption reach record levels, both in residential and commercial sectors. The popularity of solar panels is being driven by a number of ever-changing factors, but some of the leading ones include technological advancements, favorable policies, and declining costs. Unprecedented Growth The solar industry […]

When considering solar energy for your home or business, one of the most common questions is whether solar panels must face south to be effective. While south-facing panels are generally the most efficient, they are not the only viable option. The best direction for solar panels depends on several factors, including location, energy consumption patterns, […]

The solar industry in Washington state has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by advancing technology and improving financial incentives. However, with this growth has come a rise in aggressive sales tactics and misleading promotions that can leave homeowners feeling pressured and misinformed. Understanding these tactics and debunking common solar myths can help you […]

Solar panels are a popular and effective way to harness renewable energy, but their performance can be impacted by winter weather conditions. One common question is whether solar panels work when covered with snow or ice. The short answer is: It depends. A Question of Light Solar panels work by absorbing sunlight and converting it […]

As solar energy systems become increasingly popular, homeowners and businesses seek better ways to monitor and optimize their performance. A solar gateway plays a crucial role in achieving this. But what exactly is a solar gateway, and why is it important? A Communications Hub A solar gateway is a device that acts as the communication […]

Solar energy is often associated with bright, sunny skies, but what if you live in Western Washington, where the weather is often cloudy? A lot of times, we hear comments like, “Solar is great, but not in Seattle,” or, “I’d go solar if I didn’t live in Tacoma.” You might be surprised to learn that […]

If you are moving into a home with solar panels, and you are not sure if the panels are tied to the local utility’s electrical grid — or if you just want to ensure your grid-tied solar system is properly connected — here’s how to determine if your solar panels are grid-tied and functioning correctly. […]

Installing solar panels is a significant investment that pays off in energy savings and environmental benefits. But what happens if you need to replace your roof after you’ve already installed solar panels? This is a common concern for homeowners, and understanding the process can save you time, money, and stress. Removing & Reinstalling Panels The […]

The global push for sustainable energy has placed solar power at the forefront of renewable energy discussions. Nations, companies and individuals are investing heavily in solar energy solutions and infrastructure, but how much of the world’s energy currently comes from solar panels? Solar power currently contributes approximately 4-5% to the global electricity generation mix. While […]

As solar energy becomes more popular for homeowners seeking to reduce electricity bills, many people face the decision of whether to install solar panels themselves or hire a professional contractor. While DIY installation may seem like a cost-saving option, the advantages of having a licensed contractor do the job far outweigh the upfront savings. Here’s […]

As a trusted solar installer, one of the most important aspects of our job is determining the right solar system size for each customer. It’s not just about slapping a few panels on a roof and calling it a day. At Solora Solar, our goal is to ensure any new system we install is efficient, […]

Solar backup batteries are an essential component of modern solar energy systems, providing homeowners with a reliable source of power during outages or when the sun isn’t shining. But one of the most common questions people have is: How long do these batteries actually last? The lifespan of a solar backup battery depends on several […]

Washington State, known for its lush landscapes and progressive environmental policies, has become a hub for renewable energy, particularly solar power. The state’s commitment to sustainable energy sources has spurred the growth of solar panel manufacturers, making it a significant player in the solar industry. Here we explore the rise of solar panel manufacturing in […]

The invention of solar panels is a fascinating journey through scientific discovery and technological innovation. This journey began over a century ago and has evolved into the efficient solar power systems we use today. Early Discoveries The story of solar panels begins in 1839 with the discovery of the photovoltaic effect by French physicist Edmond […]

Solar panels are an excellent way to harness renewable energy from the sun, but their efficiency can be affected by various factors, including temperature. Understanding the relationship between solar panel efficiency and temperature is crucial for optimizing their performance and ensuring you get the most out of your investment. How Temperature Impacts Performance Contrary to […]

Deciding whether to cut down trees before installing solar panels is something many homeowners wrestle with — particularly in Washington state. The beauty of tall evergreens, big leaf maples and other popular trees is one of the things that makes the Pacific Northwest a wonderful place to live. But the shade provided by these trees […]

The Washington Solar Energy Industries Association (WASEIA) stands as a pivotal organization within the renewable energy landscape of Washington State. Founded with a mission to promote and advocate for the growth of solar energy, WASEIA plays a crucial role in advancing policies that support solar power adoption, fostering collaboration within the industry, and educating the […]

Last year, even though the money for solar projects around the world went down by 43 percent, there was more interest and money put into special solar technologies, according to an article published today in TechCrunch. These are called Productive Use of Renewable Energy (PURE) technologies, and they include things like solar-powered water pumps, refrigerators, […]

Solar inverters are essential components of any solar power system, responsible for converting the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into usable alternating current (AC) electricity for homes and businesses. However, like any electronic device, solar inverters can fail, leading to disruptions in energy production and potentially costly repairs. Understanding the reasons behind […]

In the realm of solar energy technology, perovskite solar panels are generating considerable buzz due to their potential to revolutionize how we harness the sun’s power. Characterized by their high efficiency and lower production costs, perovskite panels could dramatically reduce the cost of solar energy. However, many are wondering: when will these innovative panels actually […]

As the shift towards renewable energy has accelerated, one intriguing option that is gaining popularity is renting out roof space for solar panels. But is this a bright idea for you? Let’s explore the benefits and considerations. Financial Incentives The most appealing aspect of renting your roof for solar panels is the financial benefit. Solar […]

Does investing in solar power not only reduce energy costs, but also increase your home’s resale value? Is the gain in equity significant enough to be the deciding factor for some homeowners who are on the fence about going solar? Because your home is likely to be the largest single investment during your lifetime, these […]

As solar energy continues to gain momentum as a sustainable and cost-effective energy solution, misconceptions and myths about solar power persist. In this post, we debunk 10 common myths surrounding solar energy to provide clarity and empower consumers considering solar to make informed decisions. Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Cloudy or Cold Climates […]

Installing solar panels is a significant investment that offers long-term benefits for both your wallet and the environment. However, understanding the costs associated with solar panel installation is crucial for making informed decisions about moving to solar energy. Components of Installation Costs The total cost of installing solar panels depends on various factors, including the […]

In our quest for renewable energy sources, solar power stands out as a beacon of sustainability and innovation. But how exactly do those sleek panels atop roofs or sprawling across fields harness sunlight to power homes and businesses? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of solar panels and unravel the science behind their operation. It […]

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the popularity of backup batteries in grid-tied solar installations. This trend underscores a growing recognition of the importance of energy resilience, efficiency, and independence as the energy landscape continues to evolve. So, why are backup batteries increasingly favored in grid-tied solar setups? Let’s dive into […]

As the adoption of solar energy continues to rise, an inevitable question emerges: Can old solar panels be recycled? The short answer is yes, and the recycling of solar panels plays a crucial role in maintaining the sustainability of solar energy systems. Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, and as […]

In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, solar farms have emerged as a powerful contributor to the transition from conventional to renewable energy sources. But what exactly is a solar farm, and what purpose does it serve in the broader context of clean energy production? Defining a Solar Farm A solar farm, also known as […]

As the world pivots towards clean and renewable energy, one question looms large for those considering the switch to solar: How much do solar panels increase the value of your home? Numerous studies and real estate analyses indicate that solar panels can indeed enhance the value of a property. The extent of this increase, however, […]

Solar energy has emerged as a powerful and sustainable solution to meet our ever-growing electricity demands. At the heart of every solar power system lies a critical component known as the solar inverter. Let’s delve into what a solar inverter is and unravel the intricate workings that make it an indispensable part of harnessing solar […]

As solar technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the future holds exciting possibilities that promise to transform the renewable energy landscape. Here are five bold predictions for where solar technology will likely be by the year 2028: We can probably agree that even if one or two of these predictions come to pass […]

For homeowners with solar installations, the prospect of cleaning and maintaining solar panels might seem like a daunting task. However, with the right approach and understanding, it’s reassuring to know that solar panels generally require minimal cleaning and upkeep. But to the extent you may be concerned that your solar panels’ efficiency is being impacted […]

Thinking about making the switch to solar power for your home? It’s a commendable decision. Solar energy not only reduces your carbon footprint but also offers long-term savings on your energy bills. However, when it comes to installing solar panels, there’s a crucial choice to make: DIY or professional installation. While a DIY project might […]

A common concern among homeowners is the fear that their solar panels may one day become obsolete. These fears are not exactly without some basis in reality. After all, we see technology advancing rapidly all around us, and we know solar technology is following suit. For that reason, if you own solar panels or are […]

When it comes to photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, PV manufacturers produce several different types of solar panels that are suited for different applications. In this post, we will delve into the different types of PV solar panels available and explore the ones most commonly used for residential installations. […]

According to an article today in NewScientist magazine, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a revolutionary technology that combines cement and charcoal powder to create a supercapacitor, a highly efficient energy storage device. Unlike conventional batteries, supercapacitors can discharge energy rapidly, making them an attractive alternative for renewable energy applications. Wide-Ranging […]

In Washington state, net metering has emerged as a key policy to encourage solar energy adoption. Let’s delve into the workings of net metering in Washington and understand how it benefits both homeowners and the environment. What is Net Metering? Net metering is a billing arrangement that allows solar energy system owners to earn credit […]

Rising electricity rates have become a burden for homeowners in the Seattle area, putting a strain on budgets and causing concerns about future expenses. The Seattle Times reports that electricity rates increased nearly 7% between April 2022 and April 2023 — and they are up nearly 34% in the last 10 years. The rising costs […]

If you decide to convert your home to solar energy, at some point you will need to make an important decision about the size of your new solar energy system. This will be determined, in part, by how much power you consume and anticipate you will need in the future. In the United States, the […]

Many homeowners are not aware, but the federal tax credit on the installation of a solar energy system just increased in 2023 from 22% to 30%, making now an incredible time to invest in renewable energy for your home. The Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), increased […]

In an era where renewable energy is gaining momentum, community solar has emerged as an interesting solution that empowers individuals and communities to access solar energy without the need for rooftop installations. Also known as solar gardens or shared solar, community solar is a power system that allows multiple individuals or […]

We hear this question a lot. Deciding whether to get solar panels now or wait is a common dilemma for homeowners interested in renewable energy. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, and the tradeoffs involved can be complex. Here, we will explore some of the key factors to consider when deciding […]

The decision to install a solar energy system can be a complicated one, with numerous factors to consider. Homeowners in Washington state may be wondering if solar panels are worth the investment given the cloudy and rainy weather west of the Cascades. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the key factors that impact a […]

With the Yakima Valley and surrounding areas experiencing a recent increase in solar installations, the Yakima Herald-Republic turned to Solora Solar CEO Syed Mujtaba for perspective on why more and more homeowners are going solar. In the article, the Herald-Republic noted that Solora Solar performed more than 100 solar installs last year in the Yakima […]

We are pleased to be able to offer our existing and new customers this redesigned website, which allows us to better communicate the products and services we make available to homeowners and business owners in Washington state. This updated design includes new pages on our warranty and attractive financing options. We have devoted a new […]

There’s no shame in referring to solar power as “Source of unlimited energy”. Solar power provides clean energy for the masses as the sun delivers more than enough energy to power up everything on our planet. There’s no better time than now to invest in solar power for your personal households. There are multiple benefits […]

Designing a structurally sound solar system is one of the biggest challenges for solar contractors today. Solar arrays can be exposed to the worst weather conditions; including high wind, hurricanes, snow and hail. These systems need to be able to withstand the wind loads in their specific locations if they are to remain in service […]

We are doing our best to keep our customers and readers informed about the new solar incentive package passed by the state legislature this year. We have already provided an overview of the new incentives now available, and this month the Washington State University Energy Program has published its own summary with answers to frequently […]

As more and more homeowners and businesses make the decision to go solar, utilities are adjusting for the changes to the marketplace and considering revisions in policy and practice. One of the most serious changes being contemplated right now is the change to net metering. Net metering is the practice whereby a utility customer with […]

Now that the so-called Solar Jobs Bill has been adopted by the Washington State Legislature as part of the state operating budget passed last month, solar owners and installers are starting to get a picture of what new incentives will mean for home and business owners who rely on solar systems to power some portion […]

If you have been contemplating a solar installation for your home or business, but weren’t sure whether the incentives would be there to help finance the investment — your wait is over, as new solar incentives in Washington state officially become available tomorrow. That’s because the Washington state House and Senate today passed legislation that […]

Proposed legislation in Olympia could increase the incentives available for solar installations in Washington state if approved by lawmakers during this year’s special session. The Solar Jobs Bill (House Bill 1048/Senate Bill 5499) would bring an end to the outdated Renewable Energy System Cost Recovery Program on June 30, 2017, and would replace it with […]

With spring in full swing, the clouds have just started to give way to glorious sunshine. Soon things will be heating up. When considering the overall efficiency of your residence or commercial building, a roof-mount solar installation may be able to help you beyond the generation of clean energy and savings in electrical utility bills. […]

If you have been considering going solar and happen to live anywhere between Lynnwood and Stanwood — that is, Snohomish County — you might want to go green before the greenbacks are gone. Snohomish County PUD has announced that their Solar Express program will be sunsetting on June 30, 2017. This means residents of Snohomish […]

Could it be possible one day to hit the “Print” button on your computer and generate a sheet of… solar panels? Will we someday peek through solar panels printed on our curtains and blinds to see if it’s nice outside? The phenomenon is not as far off as you might think. According to the Australian […]

What were you doing five years ago? Sometimes when we look ahead, five years seems like such a long time to wait to receive a promotion, save up for a new car, take a vacation or reach some other long-desired goal. But when we look back just five years ago and think about our family, […]

Solora Solar won the 2016 Best of Yakima Award honoring the best local businesses in the community, it was announced last week. The 2016 Yakima Award Program chose Solora Solar as one of a select number of companies who demonstrate “exceptional marketing success in their local community” and “service to their customers and our community.” […]

Solora Solar is fortunate to work with homeowners who like to build a long-term relationship with their solar contractor. We love this! It means we get to answer a lot of important customer questions after the installation of their solar system, and it also means we get to receive many enjoyable updates about how solar […]

Solora Solar was featured this month on the website for Solar Washington, a widely respected solar advocacy organization in Washington state. The group highlighted Solora’s recent sizable commercial solar project at Green Acre Farms in Wapato, Wash. The non-profit solar advocacy organization hailed the Green Acre Farms installation as “a significantly important project for particular […]

Solora Solar was featured last month in the July 29 issue of the Yakima Herald as the newspaper called attention to the growing number of small businesses making the move to solar electricity in the Yakima Valley. The report highlighted Solora Solar’s success with bringing solar to commercial businesses as well as Solora’s upcoming commercial […]

A solar power system is a significant investment — one that makes a positive impact on your wallet and the environment. You should know that when you choose Solora, you have the assurance that we’re with you for the life of your system, and that’s a long time. To start with, there are lots of […]

Google is making it easier for you to go solar. With their new Project Sunroof, soon you’ll be able to use Google Earth & Maps technology to complete a shade analysis of your roof. Previously a task set aside for solar professionals, it’s one of the first steps in determining if solar power is the […]

Two sets of scientists have reported promising results from a new recipe for solar cells, which could result in panels for solar power that are easier and cheaper to make. Solar panels were recently placed on the roof of the building that supplies energy to the AirTrain at NewarkLibertyInternationalAirport in Newark, N.J. A scientific advance […]

While Germany Explores Energy Storage Technologies at Breakneck Speeds, the US Isn’t Far Behind Germany could be using 60 percent renewables if the right storage tech were in place. Startling as this announcement seems, the US is not as far behind as people think. The U.S. is surging ahead in terms of adopting battery storage. […]

Scientists are focusing on nanometre-sized crystals for the next generation of solar cells. These nanocrystals have excellent optical properties. Compared with silicon in today’s solar cells, nanocrystals can be designed to absorb a larger fraction of the solar light spectrum. However, the development of nanocrystal-based solar cells is challenging. Until now, the physics of electron […]

A Yakima-based solar company was recently selected as the best in Washington State by Solar Power World magazine in its annual rankings. Solora Solar was ranked No. 6 out of 102 solar installation companies in Washington State, according to a news release last week. The rankings are meant to note the best solar electric system […]

Generating solar power can be expensive and impractical for the average person, but a new process that spray-paints solar cells to almost any surface could be the next big thing in green energy. University of Sheffield research scientists in the UK have developed a method that sprays a perovskite compound that can be used to […]

Solora Solar Yakima WA-based leader in residential and light commercial solar system design and installation, is proud to announce the achievement of SunPower® Authorized Dealer status with SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWR). SunPower dealers provide comprehensive solar assessment and installation services, including helping homeowners figure out what kind of system they need, how it should be […]

The temperature of solar modules can be a very important factor affecting the electrical output produced by your solar panels. It’s funny, but the more sun we get in Seattle, the hotter the modules get which counteracts any benefit the sun can give your home. Although there’s a lot of rain in Seattle, heat from […]

Electric use varies from household to household, depending upon the size of your home, number and type of appliances and how you use them. Your electric meter keeps track of it all for you. Electric meters record the total amount of electricity used. You can look at your own usage by learning to read your […]

If you’re looking for a simpler way to install a solar project on a large scale, a ground installation is possibly the most advantageous way to maximize your panel density and provide the flexibility needed for the panels to track the sun across the sky. Most ground systems utilize frames, usually constructed of aluminum, stainless […]

Solora Solar has recently installed a 5.04 KW photovoltaic (PV) solar energy system for a 2,100-square-foot home in Yakima. This system will generate over 60% of owner’s energy need. The system will produce over 6,000 kWh of electricity per year while their electrical demand will be a little less than 10,000 kWh per year.  “We […]

If you’ve been hesitant to get into a commercial solar project, you probably don’t want to wait much longer. Yakima Solar is going to cost you less to install right now than it will this time next year thanks to MACRS incentives. MACRS stands for Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System. It’s a tax depreciation system […]

Whether you are looking into solar power for your residence or your commercial business, Solora Solar, your local Yakima solar contractor, should be your first stop. As a solar provider, Solora Solar knows everything you need to know about solar power. We can provide information on everything from how solar power works to the financial […]

Each year technology advances solar power systems, making them an attractive and understandable choice for the consumer. New home and commercial construction projects can benefit from many programs offered through local, state, and government incentive programs that assist in the initial cost of a solar powered system. Facts are, the savings over the years will […]

55% of Commercial Renewable Energy System cost can be subsidized through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and Federal Tax Incentives. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) was authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill and is designed to offer grants and loans to agricultural producers and rural small businesses that embark on energy […]

In 2005, the state of Washington passed production incentive legislation for individuals, businesses and local governments that produce solar power, wind power or electricity from anaerobic digesters. The base rates for these incentives start at $0.15 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and are adjusted by multipliers, as follows; This resulted in solar production incentives ranging from $0.15 […]