Kilo Hollow Energy https://kilohollow.com/ Solar, Battery and Generator Experts Fri, 29 Mar 2024 02:03:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://kilohollow.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/kilohollow-favicon-1-150x150.png Kilo Hollow Energy https://kilohollow.com/ 32 32 203503560 Virginia Solar Panel Guide: Optimizing Home Energy https://kilohollow.com/virginia-solar-panel-guide-optimizing-home-energy/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 01:58:06 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=4576 Virginia shines with solar potential, and embracing this abundant resource through solar panel installation is both a sustainable and economically wise decision for homeowners. This detailed guide will illuminate the path to harnessing solar energy in the Commonwealth, ensuring you’re well-equipped for a bright, solar-powered future. Navigating the Basics of Solar Installation Before diving into […]

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Virginia shines with solar potential, and embracing this abundant resource through solar panel installation is both a sustainable and economically wise decision for homeowners. This detailed guide will illuminate the path to harnessing solar energy in the Commonwealth, ensuring you’re well-equipped for a bright, solar-powered future.

Navigating the Basics of Solar Installation

Before diving into solar installation, understanding the process and what it entails is crucial. Virginia’s latitude and climate offer a conducive environment for solar energy production, making it a prime location for residential and commercial solar installations.

Understanding Solar Potential in Virginia

With an average of 204 sunny days per year, Virginia offers ample sunlight to effectively power solar systems. The state’s solar-friendly policies further enhance its attractiveness for solar investments.

Charlottesville home with a solar installation

Solar Incentives and Rebates

Virginia’s commitment to renewable energy is evident through various incentives, including the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), local rebates, and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs), which can significantly offset the cost of installation.

Assessing Your Home’s Solar Viability

A key step in going solar is assessing your home’s solar potential. Considerations include roof orientation, shading from trees or structures, and the age and condition of your roof.

Choosing the Right Solar Panels

The market offers a plethora of solar panel options. It’s essential to choose high-quality panels with a strong warranty. Factors like panel efficiency, cost, and aesthetic preferences play a part in your selection.

Solar Installation: A Step-by-Step Process

  1. Consultation: Work with a certified solar installer like Kilo Hollow Energy to assess your energy needs.
  2. Design: Receive a custom solar design tailored to your home’s specifics.
  3. Permits: Navigate through Virginia’s permitting requirements with your installer’s assistance.
  4. Installation: Professional installation ensures your system is set up for optimal performance.
  5. Inspection and Interconnection: Pass inspections and connect to the grid for energy production.

Maintenance and Monitoring

Post-installation, solar systems require minimal maintenance. Monitoring systems allow you to track production and ensure your system is performing as expected.

Energy Usage Analysis

A thorough energy usage analysis is the foundation for designing a solar panel system that truly meets your needs. This analysis involves evaluating past electricity bills, understanding peak usage times, and projecting future energy requirements. By doing so, Kilo Hollow Energy can tailor a system that not only reduces your carbon footprint but also aligns with your household’s consumption patterns, leading to smarter energy use and greater cost savings. Residential solar systems within Virginia inside Dominion Energy’s territory will be limited to 25 kW AC and all other electric Co-Ops and utilities to 20 kW AC.

Final Thoughts

Solar panel installation is a forward-thinking choice that secures energy independence, reduces carbon footprint, and offers financial savings. With Virginia’s sunny disposition and supportive solar policies, there’s never been a better time to switch to solar.

Embracing solar energy is not just a home improvement; it’s an investment in a sustainable future. Contact Kilo Hollow Energy for expert guidance and take the first step toward a solar-powered life.

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Guide to Roof Requirements for Solar Panel Installation https://kilohollow.com/guide-to-roof-requirements-for-solar-panel-installation/ Sun, 17 Mar 2024 17:57:24 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=4568 When it comes to solar panel installation, the roof under the panels plays a crucial role in the overall success and longevity of the solar energy system. Kilo Hollow Energy, a prominent solar solutions provider in Virginia, emphasizes the significance of meeting specific roof requirements to ensure efficient and sustainable rooftop solar installations. Understanding Roof […]

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When it comes to solar panel installation, the roof under the panels plays a crucial role in the overall success and longevity of the solar energy system.

Kilo Hollow Energy, a prominent solar solutions provider in Virginia, emphasizes the significance of meeting specific roof requirements to ensure efficient and sustainable rooftop solar installations.

Understanding Roof Types and Solar Feasibility

Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in residential properties. They are generally solar-friendly, but it’s vital to ensure they are in good condition before installation. Solar installations on these roofs necessitate proper flashing and mounting brackets to prevent potential water damage. Kilo Hollow Energy meticulously checks the integrity of each shingle to guarantee it can support the solar panels and the associated mounting hardware.

Tile Roofs: Tile roofs, whether clay or concrete, require a delicate approach to avoid damage during solar panel installation. Specialized hooks or mounting systems are employed to secure the solar panels without compromising the structural integrity of the tiles. In certain instances, tiles may need to be temporarily removed to facilitate the installation of the mounting system, then carefully replaced to maintain the roof’s aesthetic and functional integrity.

Metal Roofs: Metal roofs, especially those with standing seams, are exceptionally suitable for solar installations due to their robustness and straightforward attachment mechanism. Kilo Hollow Energy frequently uses S-5! clamps on these roofs, enabling a secure attachment without the need for penetration, thus preserving the roof’s warranty and structural integrity.

Advantages of S-5! Attachments on Metal Roofs

S-5! clamps are renowned for their non-intrusive attachment method, which is particularly beneficial for standing seam metal roofs. These clamps fasten securely to the seams, providing a sturdy base for the solar panels without compromising the roof’s waterproofing qualities. This method not only protects the roof’s warranty but also contributes to a sleek and unobtrusive solar installation, making it a favored choice among property owners who prioritize both functionality and aesthetics.

Special Considerations for Flat Roofs

Flat roofs present unique challenges and opportunities for solar installations. They often require specialized mounting solutions, such as ballast systems or mechanical attachments, that do not damage the waterproof membrane. For roofs covered with TPO or other membrane materials, non-penetrative mounting options are crucial to avoid leaks and preserve the roof’s integrity. These systems might include weighted trays or aerodynamic mounts designed to withstand wind forces without needing to penetrate the roof’s surface.

Importance of Professional Roof Assessment

Kilo Hollow Energy’s approach to solar installation starts with a comprehensive roof assessment. This evaluation is essential to determine the most appropriate attachment method, considering factors like roof material, age, and structural capacity. This meticulous process ensures that the solar installation is not only optimized for energy production but also sustainable in the long term, avoiding undue stress or damage to the roofing structure.

For example, in a recent project in Chesterfield County, VA, Kilo Hollow Energy successfully employed S-5! clamps on a metal roof to optimize the installation process. This method ensured durability and maintained the aesthetic appeal of the property. In another instance, for a flat roof installation, the team carefully assessed weight distribution and wind resistance to select the best mounting solution that would meet the roof’s specifications and the project’s energy objectives.

Tailoring Solutions to Different Roofing Materials and Conditions

The variety of roofing materials and conditions necessitates a tailored approach to solar panel installation. From traditional asphalt shingles and tiles to modern metal and flat membrane roofs, Kilo Hollow Energy has the expertise to design and implement solar installations that respect the unique characteristics of each roofing type.

For instance, in projects involving older or more delicate roofing materials, such as slate or wood shakes, the company takes extra precautions to ensure that the installation process does not cause damage. This might involve using specialized mounting systems that distribute the weight of the solar panels evenly or employing advanced techniques to minimize physical contact with the roof surface.

In addition to the mechanical aspects of installation, Kilo Hollow Energy also considers the aesthetic impact of solar panels on different types of roofs. The company strives to integrate solar installations seamlessly with the existing roof design, ensuring that the panels enhance the property’s appearance while maximizing energy production. This attention to detail is crucial for maintaining property values and achieving customer satisfaction.

Essential Roofing Requirements for Solar Panel Installation

1. Structural Integrity Your roof must be in good condition to support the weight of solar panels. An inspection should be conducted to check for any signs of damage, wear, or structural weaknesses. Kilo Hollow Energy always performs a detailed assessment to ensure roofs are capable of handling the additional load, prioritizing safety and longevity.

2. Material Compatibility Solar panels can be installed on various roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and tile. However, each material has its considerations. For instance, Kilo Hollow Energy’s project in Charlottesville used high-efficiency LG NeON® R Solar panels on a standing seam metal roof, leveraging the durability and ease of attachment that metal roofs offer.

3. Roof Age If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s wise to replace it before installing solar panels. Installing panels on an old roof can lead to additional costs and complications in the future. Ideally, the roof should have at least 20-30 years of life left to synchronize with the lifespan of the solar system.

4. Orientation and Tilt In Virginia, the optimal roof orientation for solar panels is south-facing to capture maximum sunlight. The tilt should also be considered, with angles around 30 to 45 degrees being ideal for solar efficiency.

5. Shading Roofs should be free from significant shading by trees, buildings, or other structures, especially during peak sunlight hours. Even partial shading can significantly reduce the efficiency of a solar array. Using LiDAR technology, Kilo Hollow Energy assesses potential shading issues and designs systems that maximize sun exposure.

6. Roof Size and Layout The available roof space must be sufficient to accommodate the number of panels needed to meet your energy needs. Complex roof designs with multiple levels, dormers, or vents can complicate installations and reduce the usable area. Kilo Hollow Energy’s expertise in custom solar solutions ensures that even challenging roof layouts are utilized effectively.

7. Roof Access Safe and convenient access to the roof is necessary for the installation and maintenance of solar panels. Factors such as roof height, slope, and the presence of access points are considered to ensure that installations are conducted safely and efficiently.

8. Building Codes and Permits Adherence to local building codes and obtaining the necessary permits is crucial for legal compliance and system reliability. Kilo Hollow Energy navigates the permitting process, ensuring that all installations in Virginia meet the required standards and regulations.

9. Future Roof Work Consider any planned modifications or repairs to your roof. It’s best to complete these before installing solar panels to avoid the need for a costly system removal and re-installation. Kilo Hollow Energy advises customers on coordinating roofing work with solar installations for seamless project execution.

Meeting these roof requirements is essential for the successful installation of solar panels in Virginia. Kilo Hollow Energy’s commitment to thorough assessments and quality installations ensures that every solar project not only meets these criteria but also exceeds customer expectations.

Conclusion

The roof is a fundamental element of a solar panel installation, impacting everything from system design to long-term performance. Kilo Hollow Energy’s comprehensive approach to assessing and addressing roof requirements ensures that each solar project is not only effective in generating energy but also respectful of the roof’s structural and aesthetic characteristics. With a commitment to quality and customization, Kilo Hollow Energy remains a trusted provider of solar solutions in Virginia, delivering systems that are as reliable and sustainable as they are visually pleasing.

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Exploring Solar Energy: Key Advantages and Disadvantages https://kilohollow.com/advantages-disadvantages-of-solar-energy/ Sun, 03 Mar 2024 06:36:33 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=4315 Solar energy stands at the forefront of renewable energy solutions in Virginia, offering a beacon of hope for those seeking sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional energy sources. As the demand for cleaner energy grows amidst increasing environmental concerns, solar power emerges as a key player in the energy transition. This article explores the myriad […]

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Solar energy stands at the forefront of renewable energy solutions in Virginia, offering a beacon of hope for those seeking sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional energy sources. As the demand for cleaner energy grows amidst increasing environmental concerns, solar power emerges as a key player in the energy transition. This article explores the myriad benefits and potential drawbacks of adopting solar energy in the Old Dominion, providing Virginians with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about solar installations.

Advantages of Solar Energy in Virginia

  1. Renewable and Abundant: Solar energy, harnessed from the sun’s rays, presents an inexhaustible resource. Virginia’s diverse climate, from the sunny shores of Virginia Beach to the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley, offers ample sunlight, making solar a viable option across the state.
  2. Reduction in Energy Bills: Implementing solar panels can significantly reduce monthly electricity bills. With Virginia’s net metering policies, solar users can earn credits for excess energy produced, further offsetting energy costs.
  3. Environmental Impact: Solar power reduces reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a healthier environment. Virginia’s commitment to expanding renewable energy makes solar installations a wise choice for eco-conscious residents.
  4. Increased Property Value: Homes equipped with solar energy systems often see a rise in property value, making solar installations an attractive investment for homeowners.
  5. Tax Incentives and Rebates: The federal solar tax credit, coupled with Virginia-specific incentives, lowers the initial cost of solar panel installations, enhancing affordability for Virginians.
  6. Energy Independence: By generating their own electricity, Virginia residents can enjoy a greater degree of energy independence, reducing their vulnerability to grid outages and fluctuating energy prices.
A Kilo Hollow Energy van and a ground solar array.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy in Virginia

  1. Upfront Costs: Despite incentives, the initial investment in solar technology can be substantial. However, financing options and leasing agreements are available to mitigate these costs.
  2. Weather-Dependent: Although solar panels can still generate power on cloudy days, their efficiency is maximized under direct sunlight. Virginia’s varied weather patterns may affect solar output.
  3. Space Requirements: Installing a solar array requires sufficient space. For Virginians with limited property size or shaded lots, this could pose a challenge.
  4. Aesthetic Concerns: Some homeowners may have reservations about the visual impact of solar panels on their home’s appearance, although modern designs have become increasingly sleek and less obtrusive.
  5. Navigational Hurdles with Permitting: The process of obtaining permits for solar installations can be daunting, but solar companies often manage this process, easing the burden on homeowners.

Local Opportunities and Considerations

Virginia’s solar landscape is rich with opportunities for residents to engage in renewable energy initiatives. The Virginia Clean Economy Act, aiming to transition the state to 100% renewable energy by 2050, underscores the state’s commitment to solar power. Additionally, local utility companies often offer specific programs and incentives to encourage solar adoption.

Cloudy blue sky over a home with solar panels on the pitched roof

For Virginians considering solar, it’s crucial to evaluate the orientation and shading of potential installation sites, as well as local zoning laws and HOA regulations. Partnering with a reputable solar provider, knowledgeable in Virginia’s solar policies and landscape, can streamline the transition to solar energy.

Overcoming Barriers: Financial Solutions and Incentives

One of the primary hurdles to solar adoption is the initial investment. However, with federal tax credits, state incentives, and innovative financing options from partners like Atmos Financial, solar energy is more accessible than ever. Kilo Hollow Energy assists clients in navigating these financial pathways, making solar installations a viable option for a wider audience. Additionally, the company aids in securing Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) and Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants, further offsetting installation costs and enhancing the economic feasibility of solar projects.

The Future is Bright: Solar Technology and Battery Storage

The future of solar power in Virginia is not just about generating energy but also storing it. Battery storage systems are integral to maximizing the utility of solar panels, allowing for energy availability even when the sun isn’t shining. Kilo Hollow Energy specializes in integrating cutting-edge battery technologies, such as the Tesla Powerwall 3, sonnenCore, HomeGrid and Enphase batteries, with solar installations. These systems provide peace of mind and energy security, ensuring that homes and businesses remain powered during outages.

Solar Education and Advocacy: Spreading the Word

Education is key to accelerating the adoption of solar energy. Kilo Hollow Energy is committed to demystifying solar power for the public through workshops, seminars, and online resources. By informing Virginians about the benefits and practicalities of solar installations, the company fosters a knowledgeable community ready to embrace renewable energy.

Conclusion

As Virginia strides towards a greener future, solar energy offers a promising path to sustainable living and energy independence. While the decision to go solar involves various considerations, the long-term benefits of reduced energy bills, environmental preservation, and contribution to a sustainable future make it an attractive option for many Virginians. By understanding both the advantages and disadvantages of solar power, residents can make informed choices that align with their energy needs, financial goals, and environmental values.

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Unleashing Solar Power with Sol-Ark Inverters https://kilohollow.com/unleashing-solar-power-with-sol-ark-inverters/ Sun, 23 Jul 2023 23:55:51 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=3585 In the quest for harnessing clean and renewable energy, solar power has emerged as a game-changer, offering eco-friendly solutions to power our homes and businesses. As solar energy becomes increasingly popular, innovative technologies have revolutionized the way we generate and utilize this abundant resource. Among these advancements, Sol-Ark inverters stand out as cutting-edge devices that […]

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In the quest for harnessing clean and renewable energy, solar power has emerged as a game-changer, offering eco-friendly solutions to power our homes and businesses. As solar energy becomes increasingly popular, innovative technologies have revolutionized the way we generate and utilize this abundant resource. Among these advancements, Sol-Ark inverters stand out as cutting-edge devices that enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar installations. In this blog, we will explore the features and benefits of Sol-Ark inverters, including their 12 and 15 kW inverter options, shed light on the significance of certified Sol Ark installers, and how these experts can optimize your solar system for optimal performance.

The Power of Sol-Ark Inverters: Revolutionizing Solar Energy Conversion

Sol-Ark inverters represent a new generation of solar inverters designed to maximize energy production from solar panels. These intelligent devices convert direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) for use in our homes and businesses. What sets Sol-Ark inverters apart is their advanced technology, which includes built-in microprocessors and firmware that enable precise power tracking and superior efficiency.

Sol-Ark offers a range of inverter options, including 12 kW and 15 kW inverters, catering to both residential and commercial solar installations. As we delve into the workings of Sol-Ark inverters, you will gain a deeper understanding of how these devices elevate the performance of your solar system. You can even stack multiple Sol-Ark inverters to get 100A or 150A off-grid during an outage and run an entire home on solar and batteries. The Sol-Ark website can be found here for more information.

The Sol-Ark Advantage: Advanced Features for Enhanced Solar Performance

A 15 kW Sol-Ark installed by Kilo Hollow Energy with 22 kWh of SimpliPhi batteries.
A 15 kW Sol-Ark installed by Kilo Hollow Energy with 22 kWh of SimpliPhi batteries.

    Sol-Ark inverters boast a range of features that make them a standout choice for solar installations. From multiple power point tracking (MPPT) to seamless integration with battery storage, these inverters optimize energy utilization, ensuring that every ray of sunlight is harnessed to its fullest potential. Additionally, Sol-Ark inverters offer grid-optional functionality, enabling users to operate their solar systems independently during power outages.

    Their 12 kW and 15 kW inverter options offer scalability and adaptability, making them ideal for various project sizes. Learn how Sol-Ark inverters contribute to energy resilience and grid flexibility, making them an attractive option for homeowners and businesses alike.

    Certified Sol Ark Installers: The Key to Optimal Solar System Performance

    While Sol-Ark inverters deliver remarkable benefits, their proper installation and configuration are crucial to unleashing their full potential. This is where certified Sol Ark installers play a pivotal role. These skilled professionals possess specialized training and expertise in working with Sol-Ark inverters, ensuring that your solar system is installed correctly and operates optimally.

    As a leading solar company with a strong presence all over Virginia, we take pride in being certified Sol Ark installers, providing top-notch installations and reliable support. We will delve into the importance of working with certified installers to safeguard your investment and maximize the performance of your solar system.

    Tailoring Custom Solar Solutions

    Every solar installation is unique, and Sol-Ark inverters offer the flexibility needed to tailor solar solutions to individual needs. Whether it’s a residential rooftop installation, a commercial solar array, or an off-grid application, certified Sol Ark installers have the know-how to customize the setup for the best results. From sizing the inverter to determining the right number of panels and batteries, these experts ensure that your solar system is tailored to meet your specific energy requirements, regardless of your location in Virginia.

    The Future of Solar Power with Sol-Ark Inverters

    As solar technology continues to evolve, Sol-Ark inverters are paving the way for a future where clean energy plays a central role in our lives. With their smart features and potential for future upgrades, Sol-Ark inverters are future-proof investments that adapt to changing energy needs. Learn how these innovative inverters are shaping the future of solar power and how certified Sol Ark installers are instrumental in driving this solar revolution forward.

    Conclusion

    Sol-Ark inverters epitomize the advancement of solar technology, offering unmatched efficiency, resilience, and adaptability. As we transition towards a greener and more sustainable future, the expertise of certified Sol Ark installers becomes indispensable in realizing the full potential of solar power.

    By working with these experts, you can rest assured that your solar system will operate at peak efficiency, delivering optimal returns on your investment. Together with Sol-Ark inverters and certified installers, we embark on a journey towards a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable world. Embrace the power of Sol-Ark inverters and unlock the true potential of solar energy for your home or business, contributing to a greener future for generations to come. With Kilo Hollow Energy as your trusted Sol Ark installer, experience the transformative capabilities of these cutting-edge inverters in every corner of Virginia.

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    Harnessing the Power of Smart Electrical Panels with SPAN https://kilohollow.com/harnessing-the-power-of-smart-electrical-panels-with-span/ Fri, 21 Jul 2023 03:58:06 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=3578 In the pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future, solar energy has emerged as a game-changer in the energy landscape. As the demand for solar installations rises, so does the need for advanced technologies that optimize energy usage. At Kilo Hollow Energy, we take pride in being a SPAN Certified Installer, empowering homeowners and […]

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    In the pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future, solar energy has emerged as a game-changer in the energy landscape. As the demand for solar installations rises, so does the need for advanced technologies that optimize energy usage. At Kilo Hollow Energy, we take pride in being a SPAN Certified Installer, empowering homeowners and businesses in Virginia to unlock the full potential of their solar systems with smart electrical panels.

    The Rise of Solar Energy in Virginia

    In recent years, Virginia has witnessed a significant surge in solar installations. With abundant sunlight and a growing awareness of renewable energy’s environmental benefits, more residents and businesses are embracing solar power as an economical and eco-friendly alternative. As a SPAN Certified Installer, Kilo Hollow Energy is at the forefront of this solar revolution, making the most of smart electrical panels to enhance system performance and efficiency.

    Introducing SPAN Smart Electrical Panels

    A SPAN Smart Electrical Panel is more than just a conventional electrical panel. It is an intelligent hub that optimizes energy consumption by seamlessly integrating with solar systems, storage batteries, and even electric vehicle chargers. These innovative panels empower users with real-time data on energy production, consumption, and grid usage, enabling them to make informed decisions and maximize energy savings.

    Kilo Hollow Energy: Your Trusted SPAN Certified Installer

    A SPAN Smart Panel and Enphase Battery System installed by Kilo Hollow Energy

    As a leading solar company in Virginia, Kilo Hollow Energy is committed to providing cutting-edge solar solutions tailored to our clients’ unique needs. Our SPAN Certified Installer status showcases our expertise in working with these intelligent panels, allowing us to offer enhanced monitoring, control, and energy optimization capabilities to our customers. View our SPAN overview page here.

    Unraveling the Benefits of SPAN Smart Electrical Panels

    Smart electrical panels offer an array of benefits to both residential and commercial solar customers. They enable users to track their solar energy production, monitor household energy consumption, and even manage energy flow between the grid and battery storage seamlessly. With remote access via user-friendly apps, homeowners can efficiently manage their energy usage, leading to substantial cost savings.

    SPAN Panels for Electric Vehicle Charging

    The benefits of SPAN Smart Electrical Panels extend beyond solar installations. As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, these panels are becoming instrumental in EV charging management. With the integration of EV charging stations, users can control charging schedules, optimize EV energy usage, and reduce their carbon footprint further.

    Superior Integration with Battery Storage

    For those considering adding battery storage to their solar systems, SPAN Smart Electrical Panels offer unparalleled integration. By coordinating the solar system, the battery, and the utility grid, users can ensure efficient energy storage and usage. During power outages, the battery seamlessly takes over, providing backup power to essential appliances.

    Future of Smart Energy Management

    As technology continues to evolve, so will the capabilities of smart electrical panels. With ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, SPAN panels are poised to become even smarter, further optimizing energy management and reducing reliance on the traditional power grid.

    Conclusion

    Embracing solar energy and harnessing the power of SPAN Smart Electrical Panels can transform how we consume and produce electricity. As a SPAN Certified Installer, Kilo Hollow Energy is proud to offer this cutting-edge technology to our valued customers, revolutionizing their energy management and helping them build a brighter, sustainable future. To read more about SPAN check out their website here.

    With a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and forward-thinking energy solutions, Kilo Hollow Energy is your trusted partner for all your solar needs. Discover the possibilities of smart energy management with SPAN panels and join us in the journey towards a cleaner, greener, and more resilient world.

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    All You Need to Know About our Batteries https://kilohollow.com/why-a-backup-battery-pairs-well-with-solar/ Wed, 09 Mar 2022 17:13:32 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=2649 Why You Might Consider a Battery If you experience a power outage that appears like it will last for a long time, you will require backup power from a battery system or battery backup unit. You may use an air-cooled home generator powered by gasoline or propane to keep your lights on for a few […]

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    Why You Might Consider a Battery

    If you experience a power outage that appears like it will last for a long time, you will require backup power from a battery system or battery backup unit.

    You may use an air-cooled home generator powered by gasoline or propane to keep your lights on for a few hours, or you can invest in a much more expensive liquid-cooled generator that will keep your lights on for much longer.

    However, if power outages are common in your area, you might want to consider installing a set of backup batteries to provide you with electricity while you’re not connected to the grid.

    Paired with solar, a home backup battery can be recharged during the day off your solar system and drawn down upon in the evening. This maximizes the savings and energy produced off your solar system.

    Generac PWRcell

    Three 3.0 kWh Lithium Ion battery modules in the Generac PWRcell system give 9kWh of storage capacity. An inverter and a battery storage cabinet are part of the system.

    Because the PWRcell is compatible with solar panels from a wide range of manufacturers, there is no vendor lock-in. Because of its modular construction, you can expand your storage capacity in 3kWh increments up to 36kWh. It comes with a ten-year limited warranty and can be controlled and monitored via an app.

    Enphase IQ Battery

    The Enphase IQ Battery 10T has a 10.5kWh capacity and a max output of 5.76KVA.
    It’s made up of three Encharge 3T storage units as a starting point. Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP) batteries are used in this device, which has a power rating of 3.84 KW.

    There are no moving components or fans since it cools by itself. The system comes with a ten-year limited warranty and a mobile app for monitoring and controlling it. This battery storage system necessitates professional installation.

    Sonnen Battery

    Sonnen is a multi-award-winning worldwide industry leader in energy storage with a mission to make clean, affordable energy available to everyone.

    The SonnenBatterie is an intelligent energy storage device that adapts to your unique energy requirements. When combined with solar panels, the system may provide self-generated clean energy to a household for the next 20 years. The battery has a 10-year guarantee – 10,000 charge cycles – but a 20-year intended service life. Lithium-Iron-Phosphate battery technology is one of the safest and most long-lasting available today. The extensible technology allows the battery to adjust to future energy needs in 2.5kWh increments.

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    Emergency Generators: Everything You Need to Know https://kilohollow.com/generators-are-the-key-to-winter-power/ Sun, 09 Jan 2022 17:42:14 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=2653 A few-hour power outage is usually little more than an annoyance, necessitating the use of flashlights and a little patience. However, when a large storm knocks out power for days, living without a generator may quickly turn dismal. Food spoils, mold develops, and flood-prone basements lose their operating sump pump and begin to fill with […]

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    A few-hour power outage is usually little more than an annoyance, necessitating the use of flashlights and a little patience. However, when a large storm knocks out power for days, living without a generator may quickly turn dismal. Food spoils, mold develops, and flood-prone basements lose their operating sump pump and begin to fill with water. In the winter, power outages may be much more deadly. Temperatures plummeting and a house without heat may be lethal, especially for the home’s oldest and youngest members. A backup power solution can literally save your life in these events.

    Sizing Made Simple

    Generator manufacturers such as Generac and Kohler all have helpful sizing tools on their websites to help you get started. Consumers enter the square footage of their house and mark out the appliances, gadgets, or systems that will be powered by the generator during a power outage, such as the refrigerator, microwave, central air, and television, from a list. An hypothetical home of 2,000 square feet was used to test Kohler’s Sizing Calculator. The refrigerator, microwave oven, stove, TV, personal computer, central air, dehumidifier, fan, security system, and a few more things were among the equipment to be powered during an outage. The Kohler 15 kW Residential Generator was found to be a suitable fit for the imaginary home when the calculator added up the total wattage of the selected units as well as the start-up volt-amps.

    Of course, homeowners who are still unsure about utilizing an online resource to match a generator to their property or want to speak with an expert may always contact Kilo Hollow Energy for a consultation.

    Exercise Mode

    The regular “exercise” mode is one of the necessary evils of a backup generator.
    Units are configured to run for a short period of time on a regular schedule to guarantee that the generator will offer quick power during an outage. While this mode gives the homeowner piece of mind, it also means that the calm and quiet surrounding the house is disrupted on a frequent basis. Generators are motors, and motors make noise. Another point of comparison that manufacturers are addressing in newer models is the decibel (dB) level of a generator. During the weekly test-run, Generac’s Quiet-Test® technology reduces the generator engine speed, decreasing noise to that of an idling vehicle.

    Generators Win the Cost Battle

    For liquid propane and natural gas-fueled generators, power has gone up and cost has gone down. Homeowners can spend the same amount they would have in 2016/2017 for a 12kW generator, as a 18kW generator with a transfer switch today in 2024 (around $4,860). Those savings are passed directly to the consumer, with a better product at the same or lower price point. Compared to a home-backup battery, if cost is the primary factor, a standby generator wins.

    The increased affordability of the permanent generator systems could see more homeowners, especially elderly ones, considering this option over the less-convenient, less-powerful portable generators. A permanent standby generator that starts automatically during a power outage powers the home’s vital components and can be purchased for an affordable price can seem like a sensible investment for any home, but particularly for elderly homeowners who might find an interruption in power to be as much a safety and health concern as an inconvenience.

    We’re Your Local Experts

    Give us a call at (804) 508-9526 if you are considering installing a standby generator. Our team will be happy to assist you in choosing a generator model, sizing, fuel choice, installation location and even recommend financing options. Kilo Hollow Energy is also here to service your generator and assist with routine maintenance.

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    Do Solar Panels Increase Property Value? https://kilohollow.com/do-solar-panels-increase-property-value/ Sun, 03 Oct 2021 05:23:00 +0000 https://kilohollow.com/?p=2628 Solar panels can be incredibly cost-effective and have a positive impact on the environment all the while powering your home. There are many advantages to owning solar panels. You may not be aware that having solar panels on your property can cause your property value to increase. In fact, your property value will increase with […]

    The post Do Solar Panels Increase Property Value? appeared first on Kilo Hollow Energy.

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    Solar panels can be incredibly cost-effective and have a positive impact on the environment all the while powering your home. There are many advantages to owning solar panels. You may not be aware that having solar panels on your property can cause your property value to increase. In fact, your property value will increase with any kind of solar installation. According to an article from Zillow, your property value will increase by approximately 4.1% when you go to sell. So the answer is yes, solar panels do increase property value.

    Solar panels increasing property value

    Solar panels increase your property value in multiple ways. Having solar panels can ultimately cut your spending on powering your house. Solar panels can be considered a long-term investment because of this. If you are looking to become more energy efficient and environment friendly while saving money, installing solar panels on your property may be the next thing you need to do!

    The perks of solar

    Homeowners who opt to add a backup battery or a generator can also see in increase in property value. Potential home buyers recognize the benefits of backup energy on demand. Kilo Hollow Energy does not offer Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), or solar leases, which makes the transfer of your system to a new owner very simple. Give us a call today, or send us an email to inquire about going solar!

    The post Do Solar Panels Increase Property Value? appeared first on Kilo Hollow Energy.

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