Frequently Asked Questions

What is PV and what is Solar Hot water?

PV is short for Photo-voltaic. This is the process of transferring the sun's energy, which comes down in packets called "photons", into electricity. Silicon semi-conductors inside modules have (in our case) monocyrstalline cells that produce a reaction when the sun hits them. In this chemical reaction electrons inside solar modules are stirred up and create a "voltage". Get it? Photons to Voltage = Photovoltaic. Solar Hot water is thermal. This simply means that the heat from the sun shining down on the collector heats up the water inside. It is similar to the effect you get when you lay your garden-hose out in the sun and the water inside gets hot.

How much does solar power cost?

MGI Solar costs for monocrystalline products (the most efficient available) are usually less than $8 per watt. We are fully licensed and qualified to install your system. We use high- quality, American-products that are more efficient than other leading brands. When doing an "apples for apples" comparison between LICENSED contractors and HIGH QUALITY panels, you will find our prices very reasonable. The price includes design/engineering, installation and all associated equipment needed to get your home up and running on the sun's energy.

Is this a Lucrative Investment?

If you take full advantage of Federal Tax Credits and State Rebates (on a residential system from 2kW-5kW), it will absolutely be a lucrative investment. With government subsidies paying for more than 50% of the initial investment, you will easily make back your remaining initial investment PLUS you will exceed your install costs (often in less than 10 years) when you calculate in the savings you get from your utility bill. This investment is as reliable as the sunrise.

Are there financing programs available?

Yes. If you do not have cash to pay for your new PV or Hot water system, MGI has some connections for you. We work with local banks that can provide a Home Equity LOC or Loan.

Will the Solar Panels replace my need to be connected to my utility?

Most likely not. Most PV systems, especially in South Florida, will be grid-tied. There are many reasons for this. One is roof (or other) space, your system can only be as large as your available space (preferably on the Southern Exposure). Another reason is cost. The FL residential rebate only extends to systems up to 5000 watts. You could go higher, assuming the application is viable, but you won't get money for it.

How much will this eliminate from my utility bill?

Each application will be different. MGI strongly recommends that homeowners combine Solar Hot Water with Solar PV systems. This is because electric hot water systems are "energy hogs" and absorb much of the typical person's electric bill. The more people in the house, the more this is true. After MGI has installed a Solar Hot water system for you, you should have us install a PV (electric) system. With the combination of the systems, you can save anywhere from 40% to 90%, but the most determining factor in this is your energy consumption. Air conditioners, Electric Hot Water heaters, Microwaves and other large appliances add up.

How do I get credited for the electricity I produce?

The first step in your inter-connectivity is when your utility gives you a bi-directional meter. This will replace your existing meter, which only goes forward. Depending on the balance of your homes electricity load compared to the energy your modules are producing at any given time, your meter will run backwards or forwards. At the end of the month, any excess energy produced will be credited to the next month's bill. In December, your utility will wipe the balance clean, meaning if you have still produced more than you used, they will write you a check. Note that due to the size of the systems relative to an average Florida Home-owner's usage, this is rare and the check will not make you rich. Additionally, most utilities will not pay you the same amount you pay them watt for watt.

How do I determine what size system is right for me?

We could give you some technical jargon, but honestly, the biggest question is What are you trying to accomplish? The big factors will be how much space is available, how much of your bill would you like to eliminate and what is your budget. Sometimes just installing a small system is the best fit because it is a step in the right direction and not usually a bank-buster.

What about hurricanes?

Solar equipment must be engineered to meet the wind load requirements for your area. You can insure your system with your home-owner's insurance policy, often for no additional charge.

Will I have electricity when the Grid is down?

Not unless you have batteries. This is for 2 main reasons. One is safety, can you imagine the danger of having a utility lineman working on the line that he thinks is dead...and that you are pushing power into? This is not good. Additionally, the sun's energy does not always come down at the same intensity. Clouds and other factors would make surges or dips in your electricity, flickering your lights and causing a bothersome situation. Many homeowners choose to have a Solar Hot Water heater installed. These work on thermal heat, so they still produce hot water when the grid is down.

How long will it be before I earn back my initial investment?

Many calculations factor into this. For now, 30% will be earned back through your Federal Tax Credit. Also, if you get in line, you may be able to claim your Florida rebate dollars. Your system is unique in that it produces. This is unlike adding a pool, or remodeling a kitchen. This product becomes a positive flow on your balance sheet because it works for you. In most cases, if you take advantage of Federal and State rebates, 60% of your initial cash investment will be paid back in 2 years or less. The remaining 40% will be earned back in utility savings in under 10 years!

Is Solar PV or Hot Water right for me?

This question is ultimately answered by you. If you are passionate about environmental concerns, energy independence, technical gadgets, strengthening the U.S. Economy, living off of natural abundant resources or financial investments, it may be a great option. If you are struggling to pay your monthly utility bill and need a "quick-fix" it is probably not a wise decision.

Why should I go Solar now instead of later?

Right now Federal and State Governments will pay for a significant part of your expense. Some people say they would rather wait until the cost drops, but in order for it to cost less than it currently does (utilizing Federal rebates) it would have to drop by at least 30-60%. Energy costs are on the rise now. Why continue to pay higher energy bills and pollute when you can make a pro-active change now? We don't know the future any more than you do. However, we do know that utility energy is ever on the rise. We recommend you go solar now, take advantage of the credits and make an immediate impact on your carbon footprint. We all buy cars, computers and other gadgets without thinking twice or about "when it will pay off". Why would Solar be any different?

Does this system require maintenance?

These PV systems require very little maintenance because there are no moving parts.

Is there a warranty?

Yes. Our recommended modules have a 25 year power warranty, which lasts longer than your "payback" time. The life expectancy of the system is even longer than that. MGI will also provide you with a warranty on the inverter (switches the Sun's DC electricity to AC) and on our workmanship.

What about my Home-owner's Association?

By Florida Law, they cannot prevent you from installing a solar system. MGI can provide legal documentation for this.

Does MGI match the prices of the competition?

If you obtain a price from a contracting firm with Solar, Electrical, General Contracting and Roofing Licenses in-house, and if the products are the exact same as ours, we would consider it. However, nobody to date matches these qualifications, so for now, there is no "apples to apples" competition.

What if I live in a condo?

If you own your property from the ground to the roof, you can install solar. If you are in a multi-unit building, where there are owners above or below you, you may not be permitted to install a personal system. However, you can speak to your association and ask if they would be willing to consider PV for the common areas. This would lower association fees for everyone and qualify for commercial rebates. However, most condo associations do not pay taxes, so the tax credit is not available.

Must the system be installed on my roof?

No. There are ground mount systems available if you have yard space. MGI has a General Contracting license and plenty of building experience. We can build you a cost-effective custom made simple structure to hold the panels. It could be a shaded sitting area by your pool, a car-port or other creative structure. We are open to bright ideas.

Are special adapters/cords required once it's installed?

No. The system connects directly to your existing power supply. You will not see any difference when using your electricity. Without reading your meter, you will not even know when power is supplied from the sun verses the utility.

What is the meaning of life?

This is a frequently asked question that we will not be able to answer for you, except to recommend you take it up with your Maker.