The Convert Solar Blog
Everything About Residential Solar is Changing! Here’s What You Need to Know.
In recent years, the solar industry has thrived under the 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and flexible financing options. However, new economic policies are causing the entire solar industry to shrink. So let’s answer: How these...
How the One Big Beautiful Bill is Shaking up the American Solar Industry
There’s a lot going on in the solar industry. Two months ago, we discussed how tariffs are kind of encouraging the solar industry to onshore manufacturing. However, new economic policies are shaking up the entire industry, and many do not have a bright outlook on the...
Convert Solar is named a 2025 Top Solar Contractor
The renewable energy industry is entering a tumultuous time, with deep federal cuts to programs that stoked astronomical growth over the past four years. Still, the solar industry broke record after record in 2024, the largest single year of new capacity added to the...
How Solar Microgrids Can Save Communities
In fall 2024, a major Category 4 hurricane swept through the southeast coast of the United States. Hurricane Helene was the deadliest Atlantic hurricane to strike the United States mainland since Katrine. It ripped through North Carolina, flooding streets,...
Cost-benefit Analysis of Solar, how to calculate your ROI & payback period.
Can’t decide whether solar is right for you? A cost-benefit analysis will clarify the choice! So, let’s examine solar’s costs and financial benefits. We’ll explore payback periods and potential return on investments (ROI). By the end of this blog, we’ll answer: How...
What’s happening in the solar industry? How domestic manufacturing is powering America’s future.
You’ve probably heard A LOT about tariffs. You might even be sick and tired of reading about them. But let’s look at the big picture of one of the industries affected. Proponents of tariffs often say that tariffs will bring industries, jobs, and manufacturing...
What Are Agrivoltaics? What do Agrivoltaics do? How can Agrivoltaics help the United States achieve clean energy?
We love backyard cookouts as much as the next person. Sizzling burgers, crisp leafy lettuce, and creamy condiments. Yum. But very rarely do we think about where our burgers, veggies, and condiments come from. Around 90% of what Americans eat is grown...
Convert Solar Strikes Gold! REC Gold Certified Solar Installer
At Convert Solar, we're thrilled to announce a significant milestone that directly benefits YOU, our valued customers. We've achieved REC Gold Certified Solar Professional status for 2025! This prestigious certification places us among an elite group – just 15...
Net Metering is about to change!
Net Metering makes solar more affordable and accessible. It is an excellent cost-saving tool, shortening solar’s payback period. It’s a process where utility companies and solar owners share power. Splitting power production at peak times for the betterment of the...
Are These Perovskite Solar Cells The Future of Residential Solar?
“Solar modules can now reach 39.5% efficiency!” You might have heard some exciting news in the form of enthusiastic headlines boosting new, ultra-efficient solar cells. We are excited for all solar innovations. It is true that scientists created a new type of solar...
Battery or no Battery: a Buyer’s Guide to Energy Storage Options
78% of US adults are concerned about rising home energy costs. That’s from a 2024 CNET survey. There’s never been a better incentive to go solar. But how can you make the most of your investment? How do you get the most energy from your system? Let’s look at an...
How Weather Conditions Affect Solar Panel Performance and Longevity
“I’d love to go solar, but I don’t know how solar panels hold up against the weather.” That’s a very understandable sentiment. Residential solar is a huge investment, so it makes sense that if you want to see your returns, your investment will have to...
Solar Power Demystified: Your Beginner’s Guide to Going Green!
So you want to go green? Good for you! But where do you start? What are the basics of solar? You’re bound to have a lot of questions. However, you’re also bound to run into some misinformation and misconceptions. Isn’t solar maintenance a big pain in the...
DIY vs. Professional Installation: What’s Best for Your Residential Solar System?
Solar empowers you to be self-sufficient and energy-independent. Solar is the top choice for those living off the grid, on self-made homesteads, or a nomadic lifestyle. Most of them choose the DIY route for various reasons we’ll explore. But what should you choose?...
Customer Testimonial: John Harrison’s Experience with Convert Solar
https://youtu.be/Xq2ngfwBA1M John Harrison and his wife made the decision to embrace solar energy when they moved to Suffolk, Virginia. With 27 solar panels installed by Convert Solar, the Harrisons have been enjoying the benefits of clean energy and reduced utility...
Customer Testimonial: Glen Goodman’s Experience with Convert Solar
https://youtu.be/OsOB_aVxf1A Glenn Goodman made a game-changing decision for his home in Virginia Beach—he partnered with Convert Solar to install 40 solar panels on his personal residence, resulting in a powerful 17.2 kW system. Reflecting on the significant...
Customer Testimonial: Laura Kippes’ Experience with Convert Solar
https://youtu.be/akHPfUvn2h0 In February 2024, Laura Kippes made a decision that would transform both her energy usage and her monthly electric bills—she partnered with Convert Solar to install 41 solar panels on her home. Initially, Laura had signed up with another...
What is the Impact of Solar Energy on Local Communities and Grid Resilience?
“Imagine walking into a solar company’s office with 50 or 100 of your neighbors and saying, ‘We all want to get community solar. What kind of deal can you give us?’” ~ Solar United Neighbors (SUN). Given the opportunity, most homeowners would opt to go solar. But we...
Customer Testimonial: Juli Mosnes’ Experience with Convert Solar
https://youtu.be/dCZvhTiAO1s Installation Date: February 2022 Juli Mosnes and her family were looking into renewable energy options when they discovered Convert Solar. After researching and comparing different companies, they found that Convert Solar offered the best...
Customer Testimonial: Charles Griffin’s Experience with Convert Solar
https://youtu.be/-u16jeQoeBw Installation Date: January 2023 When Charles Griffin decided to go solar with Convert Solar, he was looking for a way to reduce his carbon footprint and save money on his energy bills. Little did he know, the decision would exceed his...
The Future of Residential Solar: Emerging Technologies and Trends
With so many innovations on the horizon, the future of residential solar energy seems bright (pun intended). But which innovations are viable in the near future, and which ones are unrealistic endeavors? In this article, we’ll explore four areas of innovation, learn...
Solar Panel Maintenance 101: Keeping Your System Running Efficiently
Residential Solar Power Systems: Low Maintenance, Not No Maintenance Rooftop solar systems can provide you with reliable electricity for decades! However, they are not a “set-it and forget-it” investment. You will need to put in some work to reap the most rewards....
Tips for Maximizing the Efficiency of Your Home Solar System
How do you Maximize the Efficiency of Your Home Solar System? After all, it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it kind of investment. If you take care of your solar power system, it will serve you for decades. You might have heard of getting the most out of your system, and...
Navigating Seasonal Solar System Performance and Energy Consumption
Dear Valued Customer, Thank you for reaching out to us regarding your concerns about high winter utility bills. We understand how frustrating it can be to experience unexpected spikes in energy costs. Allow us to shed some light on some factors that may be...
The Current State of Solar in 2024. Is It Still a Good Investment?
Yes, residential solar is still a good investment. To explain why, we’ll summarize the broad national trends and then focus on our state of Virginia. Finally, we’ll focus on you, the individual homeowner, and discuss the solar investment in detail. Solar is...
Combat Inflation With Solar
https://youtu.be/OtdUqRmwfk8 Inflation is a persistent challenge that affects nearly every aspect of our lives, from the cost of groceries to utility bills. As prices continue to rise, finding ways to mitigate these financial pressures is more important than ever. One...
Virginia’s Own Convert Solar Wins Solar United Neighbors Hampton Roads Solar Co-op RFP
- Convert Solar, a leading solar installation company based in Virginia, is thrilled to announce their recent award of the Solar United Neighbors Hampton Roads solar co-op RFP. This achievement marks the fifth consecutive year that Convert Solar has secured...
The Current State of Solar in 2023. Is It Still a Good Investment?
So what is the current state of solar, and is it still a worth while investment? The short answer is yes, residential solar is still a good investment. To explain why, we’ll summarize the broad national trends and then focus on our state of Virginia. Finally, we’ll...
10 Questions to Ask Before Going Solar
So, you want to go solar? You've done some research but want to make an informed decision. What question should you ask before making the leap? Solar is a huge investment; we want you to be a smart, educated investor. This article is for those who've done some...
5 Common Solar Myths, Misconceptions, and Misunderstandings you should know.
Solar's advancements and increased accessibility earn it more and more public attention. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) says the solar industry is growing at an unprecedented rate. However, with more attention comes more misinformation, misconceptions,...
Convert Solar Wins Solarize Virginia RFP, Reinforcing Commitment to the Virginia Market
Convert Solar Wins Solarize Virginia RFP, Reinforcing Commitment to the Virginia Market VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., July 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Convert Solar, a leading Virginia-based solar company, is thrilled to announce its successful bid in the Solarize Virginia...
The Pros & Cons of Using a Local Solar Company
The decision to go solar is a big one. While solar is undeniably good for the environment, it comes with a large purchase and installation cost, therefore requiring you to do a lot of in-depth research. You’ll look into price comparisons and different types of solar...
Is Solar a Viable Option for Homes & Businesses in Virginia?
Virginia is known for its diverse landscape, with both urban and rural areas, and a climate that experiences all four seasons. So this brings up the question, Is Solar a Viable Option? The State of Virginia is a great candidate for solar power. Solar power has become...
Are Solar Panels a Good Investment in 2023?
Solar panels are generally a good, worthwhile investment for many people. However, there are certain situations in which investing in solar panels wouldn’t be a wise choice. Because there are so many questions that come up when people wonder if solar panels are a good...
Busting 5 More Solar Myths
Busting 5 more solar myths! The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. We will work together to find the best solar option for your family. Every family’s decision to go solar has a different reason. Convert Solar understands that and...
Convert Solar: Bringing Affordable and Sustainable Energy Solutions to Virginia
At Convert Solar, we are proud to offer tailored and affordable energy solutions to communities in need. Our unique approach to sustainability involves working closely with each community to create comprehensive energy plans that meet their specific needs and budget....
Uses of Solar Energy Explained
There are so many uses of solar energy, that it would take a month to fully describe them all in detail. Though the list of solar energy’s uses is almost endless, the most common ways in which we see solar energy used are in residential settings and in large-scale...
Net Metering Explained: How It Works, the Benefits, and More
Renewable energy is rapidly growing in popularity. The technology to make it happen is becoming more accessible and more affordable. One of the most widely known and used forms of renewable energy is solar energy. When customers first start looking into going...
Preparing to Go Solar? Here are Some Things to Know Before Making the Change
Here's a list of the most important, and commonly asked, questions that we think will be really helpful as you are preparing to go solar, and make your final decision. How Solar Panels Work Before diving into much else on solar power, it’s important to go over...
Robin Hixon Theatre | Solar Highlight
Check out this recent commercial project highlight! Solar panel technology has drastically improved over the last decade. It’s cheaper than ever before, produces more power per unit, is more reliable, easier to maintain, and harder wearing. We use high-quality Tier 1...
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Energy
Solar energy is one of the hottest topics today when it comes to the various types of renewable and non-renewable energy sources. Solar power is one of the most popular renewable energy sources that can not only help reduce your carbon footprint, but can also...
Solar Highlight | Renaissance Academy
Solar panel technology has drastically improved over the last decade. It’s cheaper than ever before, produces more power per unit, is more reliable, easier to maintain, and harder wearing. We use high-quality Tier 1 Panels and IronRidge Racking Systems with...
Solar Highlight | Princess Anne Middle
Taking control of your energy expenses will smooth the cost of running your business. Whether you are looking to take advantage of lucrative tax credits, asset depreciation, cutting costs, or simply “going green”. Solar is right for any business. It was a total blast...
Why Go Solar? The Benefits of Solar Power Explained
The Benefits of Solar Power. Energy is something the world and its population rely on to live and function. Every time we turn on a light, plug in appliances, etc., we’re using energy. That energy can come from non-renewable sources or renewable ones. Solar power is...
Busting 5 Common Solar Myths
https://youtu.be/XUTjivjMqAM Give us a call if you have any question about going solar! Make the convert to solar today!
What Is Solar Energy? Complete Solar Power Guide
Solar energy is energy that’s created in the sun. Because solar energy is coming directly to us on Earth from the sun, it’s the most plentiful, and essentially endless, source of energy out there. Solar energy is clean, renewable, and can take on many forms when it...
Solved! Here is How Many Solar Panels Your Home Needs
You’ve taken the time to do the research and have made the important decision to go solar in order to completely offset your monthly utility bill. The next big question that comes up is how to know how many solar panels your home will need to achieve your goal. The...
Does Solar Power Work On Cloudy Days
So, does solar power work on cloudy days? The short answer to this is yes, solar panels still generate solar power on cloudy days. This is because as long as the sun is over the horizon, it is, to some degree, generating solar radiation, and solar radiation is what...
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost And Are They Worth It?
Just about anyone you ask will tell you that installing solar panels on your home can save you money. But exactly how much a solar panel installation actually costs is a different story. That ties into the next question, which is if the installation cost of solar...
How Do Solar Panels Actually Work
The sun is the most easily accessed form of energy and power. The way solar panels work is that they capture, or harness, the sun’s energy and then take that energy and turn it into an electrical current (or electricity). This current is then used to provide the power...
Solar Panel Lifespan: How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
https://youtu.be/AAAyQ26xKQA Generally when someone is considering installing solar panels on their home, they’re thinking of an energy source that will not only be environmentally sound and beneficial, but that will be a financial boon as well. The industry standard...
Amid global energy price spikes, Dominion customers’ bills could rise between 12 and 20 percent
Company points to renewables as a long-term shield against volatility Dominion customers could see their monthly bill rise by between 12 and 20 percent due to rising fuel costs linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation and the ongoing war in Ukraine, according to...
How to Turn Your Solar System Off
Here is a quick guide on how to turn your solar system off. https://youtu.be/VQg-ArsDlj4
How to Turn Your Solar Edge Inverter On
Here is a quick guide on how to turn on your Solar Edge Inverter. Hope this clears up any questions or confusion you were having. https://youtu.be/zuFJDKAIwSQ
How to Turn Your Enphase Inverter On
Here is a quick guide on how to turn on your Enphase Inverter. Hope this clears up any questions or confusion you were having. https://youtu.be/zNkc0X04Vhg
Project Highlight | Monroe, Virginia Solar Install
https://youtu.be/lQwYnyL9m6o Check out this recent residential solar install. The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. We will work together to find the best solar option for your family. You can choose from our Cash or Finance...
Project Highlight | Misty View, Va Solar Install
https://youtu.be/g8ex8F0MFlM Check out this recent residential solar install. The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. Every family’s decision to go solar has a different reason. Convert Solar understands that and will custom build...
Residential Solar Highlight
https://youtu.be/IGV73X1HSsY Check out this recent residential solar install. The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. We will work together to find the best solar option for your family. You can choose from our Cash or Finance...
Project Highlight | Residential Solar Install in Lynchburg, Va
https://youtu.be/XIOdFRd37ds We had the pleasure of installing solar on this beautiful property in Lynchburg, Va. Every family’s decision to go solar has a different reason. Convert Solar understands that and will custom build your system to fit your needs.
Project Highlight | Monroe, Va Solar Install
https://youtu.be/wU8CwKIKUSo Convert Solar makes going solar easy. We had the pleasure of installing solar on this beautiful property in Monroe, Va. Every family’s decision to go solar has a different reason. Convert Solar understands that and will custom build your...
Project Highlight | Residential Solar
https://youtu.be/HWxp2WD5SKE Check out this recent residential solar install. The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. Every family’s decision to go solar has a different reason. Convert Solar understands that and will custom build...
Project Highlight | Residential Solar Install
https://youtu.be/3plPdJKod6Q Check out this recent residential solar install. The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. We will work together to find the best solar option for your family. You can choose from our Cash or Finance...
Project Highlight | New London, Virginia
https://youtu.be/tX5Nx3G3UOs Every family’s decision to go solar has a different reason. Convert Solar understands that and will custom build your system to fit your exact solar needs. This custom solar install in New London was no different. We fully met our...
Project Highlight | Lynchburg, VA Solar Install
https://youtu.be/a49psaATCWc The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. We were able to meet our customers specific solar needs resulting in a very happy transaction. It is extremely important to Convert Solar to help our community and...
Project Highlight | Roseland, VA Ground Mount Solar Install
https://youtu.be/NYGzykUE-cI The decision to go solar at your home is an easy choice with Convert Solar. We were able to meet our customers specific solar needs resulting in a very happy transaction. It is extremely important to Convert Solar to help our community and...
Investigation: Fight for Light Between Homeowners and Associations Over Solar Power, Despite New Law
CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) — In a power struggle involving a family in Chesapeake, there’s hardly a ray of hope that it won’t result in a lawsuit over solar. Will Rivera says he wants to save some money and help save the environment. He wants to install solar panels on...
Looking to move to solar energy? Hampton Roads co-op educates residents, helps them make the switch
For several years, LoriAnn Stretch had considered converting her home to solar energy both for cost savings and environmental benefits. The James City County resident just had no idea where to start. “It seemed unattainable to figure it all out on my own,” said...
Appalachian Power Requests 11% Monthly Bill Increase For Most Customers
ROANOKE, Va. (WSET) — Appalachian Power announced Monday that they have filed a request with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) seeking recovery of electric transmission costs. Submitted last week, the rate change is the first sought by the company since...
Solar panels donated to Forest Youth Athletic Association
Anew solar-powered system has been installed onto the roof of the main office building at the Jump Park in Forest with the hope that it will eventually offset all of the power bills for the Forest Youth Athletic Association. The panels and labor were donated by Earth...
Julie from Convert Solar Featured in “Warriors of Light” Episode 3: “Rise
“Warriors of Light” Episode 3: “Rise,” features some inspirational women on the frontlines of the solar revolution. They lead by example, rise above convention, and remain motivated by the purpose of their hard work. Julie Wallace joined the Convert Solar team in...
Long-sought changes to rooftop solar laws offer a new vision of Virginia’s electric grid
A chicken in every pot, a car in every garage — and a solar panel for every roof? For many years, that notion would have been unthinkable in Virginia, where fairly competitive electric rates, a lack of incentives and what one solar developer described as...
Client Testimonial & Project Highlight | Equi-Kids Commercial Solar System Install
https://youtu.be/EoFvVmSqg_o We are extremely excited to help Equi-kids Therapeutic Riding Center go solar! Equi-Kids had been trying to go solar for a few years but could not find the right company for the job. We were introduced to Equi-kids through a referral...
How to spot solar scams
The demand for solar energy is skyrocketing across the nation. This is great news! However, as the solar industry grows and more companies compete for your business, you might notice an uptick in misleading solar advertisements or sales practices — or even...
Dominion bills have soared — and are set to rise even faster, officials say
Dominion Energy customers’ monthly electric bills have jumped nearly 29% since 2007 under a series of electric utility-backed bills enacted since then — and look set to rise another 45% over the next decade, the State Corporation Commission said. The electric...
Charitable Partnership With GivePower!
Exciting news! Convert Solar is proud to announce our new charitable partnership with GivePower! 3 in 10 people worldwide lack access to safe, readily available water at home Today marks a great partnership with GivePower to support the construction of their...
Client Testimonial & Project Highlight | Residential Solar System Install in Chesapeake
Garret called us looking for a solar system and a Powerwall. He was very detail-oriented and wanted to know the ins and outs of all the installation components. We were able to get him exactly what he needed and have the Tesla team travel to Hampton Roads to make sure all of his requests were met. The system looks and runs great! Thanks, Garret!