Frequently Asked Questions

Because SHINE systems have no moving parts, they rarely require maintenance. We recommend that our systems be cleaned once or twice per year, with an annual maintenance visit to verify the system is performing as desired. Annual cleanings and maintenance visits are included with our lease and PPA programs; customers who purchase from us can choose a maintenance plan customized to their needs – but many customers are satisfied with system performance even without the scheduled maintenance visits.

Don’t worry, we’ll leave your roof like we found it. If we have to modify the roof surface or structure to install solar panels by creating screw holes, for example, we’ll properly fill and patch or restore to pre-installation condition with high-quality roofing materials (normal wear and tear excepted).

Every SHINE system includes an integrated metering device that automatically controls and measures electricity flow between the system and the electric-utility grid. When your system produces more electricity than your property consumes, the solar meter registers the surplus as an electricity credit. When your property demand exceeds system production, the net meter uses electricity credits to draw energy from the utility grid. With net metering, you pay your local utility for only the difference (net amount) between what your property uses and what your solar energy system produces. Not all utilities allow for true net metering; we can help you figure out the net metering rules in your area and adjust the size of your system to take advantage of your local utility regulations.

Most likely. Studies have shown that solar energy upgrades that you make can increase the value of your property, due to the annual utility savings the system produces.

We do not charge standard fees when you meet the terms of your agreement. We charge a cancellation fee if you break your agreement. Additionally, some lease and PPA customers may wish to purchase the installed solar system. In these cases, a buy-out fee would apply. We calculate applicable fees based on your unique circumstances including system age and condition, removal requirements, and other factors. Contact us, and we’ll address your situation directly.

If you break your solar agreement we charge a cancellation fee to cover the cost of uninstalling and storing the solar energy system. The cancellation fee is reduced annually during the term of your agreement.

We don’t think there’s a catch, really, but we’re always up-front about how the system works. You still have to make payments to your local utility for the electricity they provide you, and we will apply a penalty if you break your agreement with us without re-assigning it according to the terms of your agreement.

Yes. Ask a SHINE Sales Representative to create a quote based on your unique electricity consumption and corresponding solar energy needs. You can then compare the cost of purchasing a system to our loan, lease or PPA solutions.

Most property owners qualify for our solar lease or PPA programs as long as the property meets minimum solar-readiness criteria (above). Programs are subject to credit approval. Ask a representative for details.

We think our solar-power solutions offer obvious advantages over electricity from conventional fossil-fuel-burning utility providers. We are experienced in Solar, with a proven record of providing quality installations and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. Our driving goal is to help accelerate the use of solar energy across the United States and around the world. Our solar rates can offer savings over conventional utility costs from the start, and with added savings as utility rates rise. Our solutions enable property owners to quickly switch to solar, in most cases with no upfront cash investment.

Leasing solar significantly reduces upfront costs and locks-in a fixed rate which can save more money as conventional-utility costs rise. And you don’t have to worry about managing registration, regulatory, and solar installation processes or ensuring proper operation and maintenance of the system during its life. (Still want one all your own? With SHINE, you have the option to buy a system right from the start, or buy sometime down the road. Ask a Shine rep for details.)

People choose solar power for a variety of reasons, including saving money, wanting to take an active role in protecting the environment, hedging against rising utility costs, and wanting to decrease their reliance on the electric-utility grid. It also may increase the value of your property. Some people just think solar panels look cool.

Weather damage is very rare. Solar panels are designed to withstand very severe weather – including high winds, hail and snow. Most property owners’ insurance policies will cover solar systems at no or minimal additional cost, and adding the system to your policy is usually simple.

You can transfer your solar energy agreement to the next property owner at no cost and Shine will help you find a solar energy solution wherever you move. If you’ve leased your system for more than five years, you also have the option of buying it, and including it in the sale of your property. Studies have shown that solar-energy systems can significantly increase property resale value.

You have three options. You can renew the agreement, buy the solar energy system, or terminate the agreement. If you terminate it, SHINE will remove the system at no cost to you.