Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Solar PV or a Wind energy system cost?
Your system cost will depend upon your unique power needs and situation. This is one reason Pioneer provides a FREE site assessment, so that your quote is custom designed to your home or business. When you take into consideration all the rebates and tax incentives available, your system could practically pay for itself. Visit the Calculator page for more information.

Are there rebates or tax incentives to help with the cost?
Yes. Tax incentives and rebates can cover a large portion of your system costs, and largely depend upon the size and type of your system. These vary by state, user, and system specifics. Pioneer keeps up to date on what incentives are available to you, and can offer more details on your system. More information is also available through www.dsireusa.org.

Are there financing options available to me?
Absolutely. Pioneer offers various secured or unsecured options to help with the cost of your system. Customers love the No-Interest, No-Payment features offered on many products. For commercial projects Pioneer offers Lease options or a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Visit the Financing page for more information.

Are these systems really cost effective?
Yes. Installing a power generation system you own means you have control. If financed, your monthly costs, in many cases, will be less than your current power bill and when your final payment is made YOU own the system, not the power company. With such a low-risk, high-return investment available there really is no reason to not take control today.

What is my expected Return on Investment (payback)?
With improved product efficiencies and lower costs, more rebates and tax incentives, and utility company’s rising rates, the best time for a Solar PV or Wind system is NOW. Think of your system as tangible insurance against rising energy costs. Pioneer Solar’s customized “Payback Analysis” is designed around your current expenses, system of choice, and situation. This valuable report includes your specific “Payback Date” and chart, your Net Savings, your Rate of Return comparison, a list of your Tax Incentives and Rebates, and any Environmental impact details.

How does Net Metering work?
Net Metering measures the amount of power you consume vs. the amount of power your system generates. Depending upon your location, and utility company, you could receive credit for excess power your system generates, literally turning your meter backwards. With the increase in power rates, this will continue to work to your advantage.

What size of system will I need?
Every family, or business, uses power differently. The size of your system will directly depend upon your average monthly kW usage, and what percentage of it you want covered by your system. You can find your average monthly kW usage by looking at your past year’s statements, or by calling your utility company.

Can Solar PV power my entire home or company?
Yes. Pioneer Solar is familiar with offsetting 100% of a family’s, or a corporation’s, energy needs. In fact, Pioneer installed the first Platinum LEED Certified Solar PV System in Salt Lake City, and completely offsetting 100% of the firm’s energy usage. Eliminating your carbon footprint is not only possible, but sets a high standard of quality for others to follow. Let the professionals at Pioneer help you get there.

How much space will I need?
Space is critical to a well functioning Solar PV system and one free of shading or obstructions. The space required varies with the different panels available today, how those panels are arrayed, and if the system is fixed or tracking. Wind power and Solar PV installations depend largely upon current zoning ordinances, which usually vary by location. Sufficient sun, and/or wind, will also play a role in this spacing.

How reliable are systems today?
Because Solar PV uses sunlight to generate power, the more sun that’s available means the more power that is available. The same is true of available wind for Wind turbines. Pioneer’s professional shade or wind analysis’ can offer accurate expectations of power generation on your property. Pioneer’s Warranty provides that the systems installed will produce their rated output for the rated timeframe and back up all installation with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.

Will my Solar work at night, or during cloudy weather?
Although it is not typical of most Solar panel manufacturers, some panels can produce power by ultraviolet light- which means through cloud cover. However, no Solar PV panels will produce in total darkness, and most systems need a minimum amount of power to work. If your location has more clouds, vs. more sun, a custom designed system will provide advantage to you over a typical system. If your system if tied to the utility grid, it will pull power during these demand times.

Can I store the power when there is not sun or wind?
Yes. If your home is connected to the utility company, excess power fed back into the system can be used later. Other options for storing power require installing a battery back-up system, which will provide a given amount of power for a given number of days. This also provides emergency power during black-outs, or for “off-grid” applications. For more details on these types of system options, give Pioneer a call.

Will the Solar panels or Wind turbine be noticeable?
Most Solar PV systems are low profile, and depending upon the panel or layout can be mounted flat. Residential wind turbines are typically smaller, and any poles can be painted to blend into your current landscape. Pioneer works with you every step of the way to ensure that if visibility or aesthetics are an important factor, such are incorporated into the project to your satisfaction.

What lifestyle changes will I need to make to benefit from Solar or Wind?
Although not required, one of the most significant ways you can benefit from your new system is to reduce the amount of energy you currently consume. Your benefit is a smaller needed system and one whose price is significantly reduced. However, Pioneer can design a system that fits your current lifestyle, making no lifestyle changes necessary.

Will I need to buy new Appliances or Fixtures?
No. The systems are designed to convert DC power into the AC power you currently use. Although your decision to purchase “more efficient” appliances or fixtures will decrease you carbon footprint and free up more power, such is not required. In addition, our systems are designed to work with your existing appliances so that there is no need to replace them.

What can I do to prepare for installation?
A FREE site analysis will offer you the best information you can get about what options will work for you. Also getting your last twelve months of power bills together will help to see what size of system you will need. If home owner associations or neighborhood covenants restrict installation, working with these organizations can help to get changes made to allow for your installation. Also verifying your property’s current zoning ordinances will prove to be beneficial.

How long does the installation take?
As one of the most experienced contractors in the country, Pioneer can work around your schedule and time frame. Your installation time depends upon your system size and specific system details. Typically Residential projects can be finished within a week, whereas Commercial or Government projects may take several weeks.

What should I look for when choosing a Contractor?
This is the most important single question you can ask, because anyone can install any system on anyone’s property. Your real benefit comes from finding a contractor that has experience and tenure, which will honor their warranties, and which has proven that they will be around to support you should any issues arise. Quality, Integrity, Experience, Attention to Detail, and Customer Service are vital ingredients to a great experience.

For more information, or for a FREE SITE SURVEY;

Contact Us- 801.849.8769