Q: What is CIGS?
A: Copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) is a new semiconductor material composed of copper , indium, gallium, and selenium. The material is a solid solution of copper indium selenide (often abbreviated "CIS") and copper gallium selenide, with a chemical formula of CuIn x Ga (1-x) Se 2 where the value of x can vary from 1 (pure copper indium selenide) to 0 (pure copper gallium selenide). It is a tetrahedrally-bonded semiconductor, with the chalcopyrite crystal structure, and a bandgap varying continuously with x from about 1.0eV (for copper indium selenide) to about 1.7eV (for copper gallium selenide).

Q: What is solar energy?
A: A solar energy system creates usable power from sunshine. There are two basic kinds of systems:

• Photovoltaic or PV uses sunlight to generate electricity. GroupSat uses a proven, patent technology called CIGS. This is the same technology found in pocket calculators, just on a larger scale. PV systems can be designed to generate the majority of the electricity used in your home, or just a portion of it.
• Thermal solar, on the other hand, uses sunlight to heat water. Typically, this is used for a home's hot water supply. A well-designed thermal system can be extremely effective and provide most of the hot water used in your home.
• GroupSat supplies both kinds of systems. Both let you do your part towards reducing greenhouse gases and improving the environment.

Q: How does solar electricity work?
A: This technology is called “photovoltaic” or PV. Sunlight hitting silicon cells in a module generates a DC current. This current goes to an inverter in the house or structure which turns it into household AC.  Grid-connected systems are linked to the regular electrical grid and reduce the amount of current the house draws from the power company.  Off-grid PV systems are completely independent of the power company. These require extensive battery backups and are more complex to install and run.  GroupSat specializes in grid connected systems since these are easier for most people to use.

Q: How do solar thermal systems work?
A: Fluid running through a solar collector is heated by sunlight hitting the collector. This heated fluid circulates through a storage tank where it transfers its heat to the water in the tank. The storage tank is part of the regular water supply and is installed upstream of the conventional water heater.  The solar fluid never touches the water.  GroupSat’s unique third-generation system design handles this process very efficiently, for quieter operation, better output, peace of mind, and much less maintenance than conventional thermal systems.

Q: Does solar work only on sunny days?
A: Solar systems work even when it's cloudy.  Naturally, cloud cover reduces the amount of solar radiation reaching the panels, but the system will produce electricity and/or heat on all but the most overcast days.

Q: How does solar help the environment?
A: Fossil fuels are a leading cause of global warming and air pollution.  Solar energy reduces the amount of fossil fuels that are burned, thus reducing the pollutants and CO2 that are released into the atmosphere. GroupSat solar energy systems have the added benefits of a very high a efficiency level, durability, and sustainability.  This translates to fewer replacements and repairs, saving even more energy and precious resources.

Q: How does a solar energy system benefit me personally?
A: In several ways:

• It reduces your energy bill, and in many areas, the utility will buy back any extra electricity you generate. Federal, state, and utility financial incentives are often also available.     
• It adds to the value of your home.
• You gain energy independence.
• It is a good investment towards a sustainable future for yourself and your loved ones.

Q: Will a solar PV system give me electricity if there's a power outage?
A: That depends on the kind of system you have. PV systems with a battery back-up will provide electricity if the power goes out.

Q: Can a PV system give a dangerous shock?
A: A properly installed solar panel cannot give you a shock and our mounting system keeps wires safely bundled and out of the way.  An improperly installed or damaged module can give ashock, however, GroupSat certified installers work with the same electrical code as any qualified electrician, so the risk is minimal.

Q: Will a solar thermal system give me hot water if there's a power outage?
A: The pump that circulates the solar fluid runs off electricity, so, in the event of a power outage, it won't operate unless you have a standalone system with battery backup.

Q: I've seen houses with old solar collectors that are full of unsightly algae. Can that be avoided?
A: Yes. The technology has made huge strides in recent years.  As an example, our solar collectors use propylene glycol instead of water. Propylene glycol is a more efficient heat transfer agent. It doesn't freeze and algae won't grow in it.  It is safe and nontoxic.  Furthermore, the collectors look great on your roof.

Q: Can a thermal solar system leak?
A: Theoretically, anything can leak, but it is extremely unlikely that a properly-installed GroupSat solar system ever will. We have one of the world's best-equipped test facilities, and we test our products more rigorously than any standard requires.

Q: Is solar power for everybody? What if I live up north?
A: Anybody who has a good site can benefit from a solar energy system.  Once it is installed, the power is free. Moreover, solar isn't just for the sunny south – solar works in all areas with sunlight.  GroupSat systems are in use around the world and we have experience with all kinds of weather extremes.  Our systems work efficiently in pretty much any climate.

Q: What's the best place to mount solar panels?
A: Direct sunlight is the most important factor.  For most people, this means mounting the system on the roof, so we've devoted a lot of time and effort to creating the best rooftop mounting systems in the industry.  Our panels fit on shingle and pitched roofs and have many engineering features that make it intrinsically sturdy.

Q: What regular maintenance do I need to do?
A: With a GroupSat system, very little. PV systems are inherently very low-maintenance, requiring the system owner only to wash the solar modules down with water when they get dirty so light can get through. Our special mounting hardware greatly reduces the need for periodic bolt-tightening. Conventional thermal solar systems require regular venting, but our third generation solar thermal systems don't even need that. The circulation pump and valves are mechanical, so they require periodic replacement, yet, here again, our systems are self-lubricating so the service intervals are longer than with our competitors.

Q: How long will my system last?
A: If properly installed, it should last many years. We guarantee the performance of our PV modules for 25 years, and our thermal collectors for 10 years.

Q: What technical knowledge do I need?
A: With a GroupSat system, basically none. We're always glad to supply any technical information you might want, but you definitely don't have to become an expert. Most people enjoy monitoring their system to see what it's doing, and we provide very convenient ways of doing this. The fact is that our systems run just fine all by themselves.

Q: Can I install solar myself?
A: It is best to go with an experienced installer. Your certified GroupSat installer/dealer can help you determine the right system for you, and make sure everything works properly. GroupSat dealers are certified on our systems, assuring expert installations and service.

Q: How will a solar energy system affect my home's resale value?
A: Studies from the U.S. show that most Americans would pay more for a home with a solar system already installed. Of course, as energy costs rise, anything that lowers those costs will add to a home's value.  In addition, our systems are designed specifically to be aesthetically pleasing.

Q: Are solar energy systems vulnerable to weather?
A: Our modules and collectors have tempered safety glass set deep into heavy-duty frames, and our mounting system is extraordinarily robust. If properly installed, our systems are at least as strong as the roof they are mounted on, if not stronger.

Q: How much does a solar energy system cost?
A: It is impossible to give a simple answer since this depends on system capacity, home layout, and other variables.  Certainly, the cost has gone down dramatically in recent years, and now there are many tax breaks, electricity buy-back programs, and incentives. Please contact a local certified GroupSat dealer for pricing and more information.

Q: How does electricity buyback work?
A: This is often called “net metering” and is available from many utility companies. If you generate more electricity than you use, the excess goes back to your utility company, spinning the meter backward and giving you a credit for the electricity your PV system generated.

Q: Where can I find out about federal and state incentives?
A: The US Department of Energy (www.dsireusa.org) has a database of federal and state incentives for renewable energy.  These incentives are because you'll lower your utility bills, gain energy independence, and help create a better environment and future. It's easy to do, easy to live with, and it pays for itself.

Building Sustainability with GroupSat Solar Energy Systems
GroupSat is one of the world's leading providers of solar energy systems. We offer low-maintenance, high-performance systems, engineered for a long-life, and designed to fit today's lifestyles. Our fully integrated photovoltaic systems generate electricity from sunlight.  Our thermal systems turn sunlight into hot water. Our mounting systems are strong and safe, and fit any roof.

GroupSat technologies are building sustainability on homes around the world. Your certified GroupSat dealer can answer any other questions you have, and help select the right system for your home. Contact him or her, or go online at www.groupsat.com.

Let's build sustainability
Turn your home into a producer of clean, renewable solar energy. You'll become part of the solution to global warming. You'll also gain independence from rising energy costs. Your certified GroupSat dealer is a highly qualified professional who can answer all of your questions about solar, and install a system that perfectly fits your home and lifestyle. Whether you choose photovoltaic, thermal, or both, you'll enjoy dependable renewable energy, lower utility bills, and experience personal satisfaction for many years to come. Contact Us today!