FAQ

Yes, solar panels still function when it snows. Solar panels operate by absorbing sunlight, not heat, so even during snowfall, sunlight can reach the panels and generate electricity. A light layer of snow can be easily blown away by the wind, and as it melts, it can help clean the surface of the solar panels. Significant snow accumulation might be a concern only when it is heavy enough to affect the panel's angle, reducing efficiency. AMPS solar panels are tested to withstand extreme conditions, resisting up to 5400Pa (540kg/m²), ensuring they can handle heavy snowfall.

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) light at all times. As long as there is daylight, even on rainy, snowy, or cloudy days, UV light reaches the panels, allowing them to produce energy. While your home solar system will still generate electricity under these conditions, its efficiency may be slightly reduced due to limited, indirect sunlight. This reduction in efficiency could range from 10% to 15% compared to clear, sunny days.

It is generally possible to power a home entirely with solar energy, though several factors can influence this. The size of your home and your monthly energy usage are significant considerations. Larger homes typically require more energy, whereas smaller homes need less. If your energy consumption exceeds what a home solar system can produce, you might not be able to rely solely on solar power. To determine the feasibility, it's best to consult a local solar installer who can design a system that meets your specific energy needs.

Yes, you can store solar electricity for later use by integrating an electrical storage unit with your photovoltaic system. These battery storage systems save excess power for use during the evening or at night, significantly increasing the self-consumption of the solar power you generate. AMPS offers practical and efficient energy storage solutions to help reduce electricity costs.

Even in low-light conditions, such as cloudy or rainy days, or at dusk, AMPS solar modules maintain high output levels. Our solar panels are designed for real-life conditions and perform well with diffuse light. Even at a low irradiation of 200 W/m², our modules achieve 98% of their original efficiency. At radiation levels between 400 and 900 W/m², efficiencies can exceed 100% of the nominal value. These performance metrics have been validated by the independent Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE.

Photovoltaics (PV) is the method of converting sunlight directly into electricity. The core component of a PV system is the solar cell. When sunlight (electromagnetic radiation) hits the solar cell, it triggers a physical reaction, generating direct current (DC) electricity. A solar module typically comprises 60 or 72 solar cells, protected by a durable glass panel and frame. Multiple modules form an efficient photovoltaic system. The DC electricity produced by the solar modules is converted to alternating current (AC) by an inverter, making it usable for household appliances. The French physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel discovered the “photoelectric effect” in 1839, laying the foundation for today’s efficient solar cells and the production of eco-friendly electricity from sunlight.

Installing a solar panel system can significantly reduce your electricity bills as the system generates electricity to meet most, if not all, of your energy needs. The amount you save depends on the size of your system, the type of solar panels used, the climate, and other factors, including eligibility for local solar incentive programs. On average, a U.S. household spends about $125 per month on energy. If your system covers your entire energy demand, you could save up to $1,500 annually.

The actual installation of solar panels typically takes just a few days, sometimes even just one day. However, the entire process, including roof inspection, installation, and obtaining permission to operate (PTO), can take between two to six months. Here are the key steps involved, most of which will be managed by your installer: System Design: Installers use data gathered from your roof (angle, shading, etc.) to design an ideal system to meet your energy needs. Site Inspection: Your installer inspects the site and checks the roof's condition for any necessary repairs before installation. Solar Permission: Your installer obtains all the necessary permits for construction. Installation: Depending on the system size, weather conditions, and installer’s expertise, installation may take a day or more. Final Inspection and PTO: Your local county or municipality, along with your utility company, conducts the final inspection to grant you permission to operate. The approval timeline varies by utility company.

In the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels should ideally face true south for optimal sun exposure. True south is different from magnetic south, which a compass indicates. True south refers to the geographic south, meaning the panels face the South Pole.If true south isn't feasible, east or west-facing panels are also effective, especially when panels are installed on both slopes of the rooftop to maximize sunlight exposure throughout the day. AMPS installation partners will design a system that best suits your rooftop using 3D modeling software to ensure the optimal configuration. We do not recommend north-facing panels, as this significantly reduces their efficiency.

Contrary to popular belief, solar panels are not only effective in sunny regions. They can function in various climates, including colder areas or regions with high temperatures. The main difference is the efficiency of the panels. Optimal conditions for peak solar performance are around 77°F with ample direct sunlight. Homeowners in temperate climates with plenty of direct sunlight will benefit the most from solar panels. However, solar panels can still provide significant benefits no matter where you live.

On request, our affiliates manage all crucial aspects of project management as your EPC contractor or project developer. This includes site analysis, plant design, construction planning, financing options, and creating output reports. The development, planning, and construction of large-scale solar power plants are highly complex processes optimized by our specialists.

We are happy to connect you with an installer who uses AMPS products. To find an installer in your area, please contact us.

The output of a solar system and the potential for self-consumption depends on several factors: the orientation (North, South, East, or West), the roof's inclination angle, and the size of the solar system. The share of self-consumption also depends on household electricity demand, which can be increased through intelligent use of solar power, data loggers, monitoring devices, and storage systems.

A solar system can be installed anywhere with at least 107.6 ft2 (10 m2) of roof space. The amount of electrical output depends on factors such as geographic location, roof orientation (North, South, East, or West), roof inclination angle, and the size of the solar system.

The installation time for a solar system depends on its size and the specific requirements of your property. Generally, installing a residential solar system takes a few days. For larger power plants, our affiliates have completed 50 MWp power plants within a few weeks.

AMPS high-quality modules come with a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year linear performance warranty. Generally, a solar system with AMPS modules is trouble-free and requires minimal maintenance. However, if any issues arise with your system, simply contact your local authorized installer.

Typically, a photovoltaic system with AMPS modules is reliable and low maintenance. Should any problems occur with your system, please reach out to your local authorized installer for assistance.