Energy demands are rising, making solar even smarter

Two recent reports about the American energy grid and trends in usage are placing renewables front and center as solutions for future power needs.

The U.S. Department of Energy on December 20 released a new report showing how data centers are and will use big chunks of electricity supplies. As AI is woven through every sector of the technology industry, and is at work in our individual daily lives, the power needed to run computers is growing exponentially.

“The report estimates that data center load growth has tripled over the past decade and is projected to double or triple by 2028. U.S. electricity demand is projected to account for data center expansion and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) applications, domestic manufacturing growth, and electrification of different industries.”

“The report finds that data centers consumed about 4.4% of total U.S. electricity in 2023 and are expected to consume approximately 6.7 to 12% of total U.S. electricity by 2028. The report indicates that total data center electricity usage climbed from 58 TWh in 2014 to 176 TWh in 2023 and estimates an increase between 325 to 580 TWh by 2028,” the Department of Energy said.

How does solar fit into this enormous demand for power? In many ways, solar generating systems for homes and small businesses act as an insulating factor against heavier and heavier demands on the grid. Off-grid solar obviously escapes any and all pressures on the public electrical infrastructure. The solar power you make stays on your property, powering your home and maybe even charging your own battery system. Grid-tied solar still affords lots of energy independence, making a home or business less reliant on the supply (and prices) of the local power utility.

As individuals in our region are finding out, electrical upgrades are being made to the grid to supply more and more data centers. This work sometimes causes outages. In other areas, peak demand charges make electricity more expensive during times of day when the highest number of customers are drawing power.

That’s why renewable energy and innovative power sources are being harnessed to meet rapidly-growing power needs.

Meanwhile, end-of-the-year data reports put out by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) points to renewable energy sources (i.e., biomass, geothermal, hydropower, solar, wind) moving into a bigger role in energy supplies. Renewable energy is now over 30% of total U.S. utility-scale (i.e., >1-MW) power generation capacity and could reach 37% by the end of 2027.

“Solar accounted for 79.3% of all new utility-scale generation placed into service in the first ten months of 2024. In October alone, solar comprised 91.8% of all new capacity added,” said analysts looking at the data reports.

Small-scale solar reportedly accounts for 27.9% of all solar generation and contributed 2% of U.S. electricity supply in the first 10 months of 2024.

What does this all mean for power users and solar futures?

mtvSolar’s Casey Feezle, Director of Business Development, has been involved in energy discussions around data centers and hyperscale power users, watching how they will impact the needs and options of everyday businesses and residents. He says there is plenty of uncertainty surrounding supply models, but solar energy truly is the smart choice now.

“In light of these uncertainties,” Casey says, “solar energy provides stability and control.”

Here’s how, he says:
1️⃣ Protects Against Rising Rates: Solar stabilizes your energy costs as utilities adapt to growing energy demands.
2️⃣ Leverages Current Incentives: Existing net metering and tax credits make solar financially advantageous—lock in benefits now.
3️⃣ Reduces Grid Dependence: Onsite generation shields you from potential cost increases tied to grid upgrades.

Anyone watching energy trends with worries about electric rates or grid stability would be smart to consider solar and what it can deliver, no matter what the future holds.


Choose well for solar success

Like many things in life, the longest part of the journey into solar energy can be just making the decision to do it. There can be pressure to jump into a solar panel and battery system on someone else’s timeframe — to take advantage of certain tax credits or fit into a company’s schedule. But the best outcome for your particular solar energy project is one that meets YOUR timeframe, budget and needs. Resist any pressure otherwise.

Choosing well is really key to long-term success. Most solar PV panels last longer than 30 years, so you and your family will savor the payout for a well-designed system that’s well-installed over the course of decades.

Unfortunately, there are more and more companies out there promising fast and free solar or unbelievable prices. Avoid any kind of high pressure, oversimplified “deals” with promises of zero cost. If there’s zero cost, there’s likely very little benefit to you. Also avoid providing your personal information on any platform online that’s not linked to a reputable company.

“Online forms that are not associated with an official business and request your name, address, or other personal data to ‘see if you qualify’ or make offers like ‘no more energy bills’ are another warning sign, as these forms can sometimes serve to generate leads for other businesses without your knowledge or consent,” warns the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Technologies Office.

Smart solar shopping tips included in this guide from the U.S. Department of Energy recommend talking to friends and neighbors who have had solar installed to see what company they used and if they’re satisfied with the results and service.

There are particular certifications a solar customer can check for a potential installer. Are their installation crews specifically trained on the products they sell, install and service?  The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is the top professional training and certification organization for renewable energy technologies. Does the company employ staff who are NABCEP certified? At mtvSolar, we know the value that brings.

Adding solar panels to a home roof, a garage, a barn, your business or a part of your property is an investment. For some, a panel and battery system comes in around the price of a pretty good vehicle. And just like shopping for a car, our customers want to know specifics about different features, performance potential, maintenance and lifespan. At mtvSolar, we have some of the smartest customers out there. They have questions just like you do. A good solar company will have smart, well-trained consultants that want to have those in-depth conversations about performance, financing and more before signing a contract.

Because we care about the future of solar energy and the environment, established solar installers like mtvSolar want solar energy to work well for people — even for people who aren’t our direct customers. The best solar is solar that works…solar panels that generate the expected numbers of kilowatts consistently over the life of a solar PV panel, and components that let the panels deliver power to the end user safely and seamlessly. That’s good for the customer, for their neighborhood, for the electric grid and beyond.

You might be new to solar, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But for the best results, we recommend working with a solar company that’s not new to the technology. You’ll reap the rewards of their experience.

Energy storage will be key to future power stability

Extreme temperatures across the globe are putting extra strain on power grids, and energy analysts say storage could help balance struggling electric supply systems as the grid is modernized for today’s energy supplies and demand.

Very high heat in summer poses multiple challenges for energy grids. Air conditioning in individual homes, businesses and industrial facilities create a large and sudden draw on public power supplies, adding to normal daily demands. High temperatures also affect the power distribution system’s physical features. Power lines can sag in extreme heat, causing them to malfunction or pose a fire risk in dry landscapes. That same heat (or, in different seasons, extreme cold) can interrupt the delivery of fuel to power plants that generate electricity.

Blackouts and grid failures are now common risks, added to outages caused by natural disasters like hurricane, floods and wildfires. Modern households and businesses are heavily dependent on electricity for everything from cell phone charging to internet-based services to food storage, not to mention heating and cooling. A lot rides on a stable electrical supply, and energy experts say one key to stability is energy storage.

“As temperatures increase, grids will need to be more resilient, including storage to handle demand surges and supply disruptions,” energy experts report in a recent look at global power outages.

Storing grid energy, solar or wind energy in battery systems allows individuals and grids to ride out the surges in power demand more smoothly. Batteries can stockpile energy when demand is low — on a cool night when appliance use is idle — for use later, when demand for power is high, like during the hottest part of the hottest summer day. This is possible for individual homes, and works extremely well paired with solar panels. Many of our mtvSolar customers have enough panels to offset all of their daily electrical usage and charge up battery systems like the Tesla PowerWall for use during outages or brownouts. Other customers use battery systems alone, charging them from the grid to sustain their homes or businesses when power goes out.

Want to know more about batteries and how they can work with your energy system? Check out our “All about batteries” page. Get in touch with our team for individualized guidance backed by 15 years of experience.

Why a Qualified Solar Installer is key to your home’s Solar Power Success

The solar power industry is booming around the world, and the United States is no exception. As more and more homeowners look to solar energy to power their lives, the demand for qualified solar installers is skyrocketing.

But what exactly does it mean to be a qualified solar installer? And why is it so important to choose an installer with the right experience and qualifications?

In-depth training is essential for safety and efficiency in solar installations. Qualified installers have the knowledge and skills to properly install and maintain solar panels, ensuring that your system operates safely and efficiently for years to come.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing a qualified solar installer:

  • Safety: Solar installations involve working with electricity and heights. A qualified installer will have the training and experience to complete your installation safely and according to code.
  • Efficiency: A qualified installer will know how to properly size and design your solar system to meet your energy needs. They will also be familiar with the latest solar technologies and installation techniques, ensuring that your system is as efficient as possible.
  • Performance: A properly installed solar system can save you thousands of dollars on your electricity bills. A qualified installer will make sure that your system is installed correctly so that you can reap the full benefits of solar power.
  • Warranty: Most solar panels and equipment come with warranties. However, these warranties may be void if the system is not installed by a qualified professional.

When choosing a solar installer, be sure to ask about their qualifications and experience. 

Here at mtvSolar, we don’t just slap on solar panels. We’ve been installing solar and batteries since 2009, and we take immense pride in the quality and efficiency of our installations. 

We have certified installer status with the major solar and battery manufacturers whose components we install in your home and business, including SolarEdge, enPhase, Schneider and Tesla. That means our crews have gone through ongoing specialized training for those components particularly — how they fit together, work most efficiently and stay working for your top performance. This training makes us great at servicing a systems, too.

Our team is stacked with experts who have dedicated themselves to mastering the art and science of solar power. Many of us hold NABCEP and college certifications in relevant fields like electrical engineering or renewable energy.

But our commitment to excellence goes even further. We employ numerous NABCEP certified professionals. NABCEP stands for the North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals, a highly respected organization that sets rigorous standards for solar installers.  Earning this certification requires passing comprehensive exams and demonstrating a deep understanding of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. It’s a mark of distinction that assures our customers they’re getting the best in the business.

This dedication to ongoing education and professional development isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about ensuring that every system we install is built to last, operates at peak performance, and delivers the maximum return on your investment.  We understand that your solar panels are a significant investment, and we take that responsibility seriously.

By choosing a qualified solar installer, you can ensure that your solar power system is installed safely, efficiently, and to meet your specific needs.

A system that paid for itself in one storm

Like most solar owners, John Snyder calculated how long it would take for his solar panel array and battery backup system to pay for itself from the initial upfront cost. That calculation prepared he and his wife for a 7-year return on investment. But their solar and battery payoff came much sooner than that. Their 45-panel, 10 kW system was installed by mtvSolar at their Summersville, W.Va. farm in 2011. In June of 2012, a freak derecho storm hit West Virginia, knocking out power to most of the state for 12 days in sweltering temperatures.

“The battery backup system paid for itself in that derecho,” said Snyder. He and his wife watched people lined up at gas stations trying to get gasoline to power their generators to keep refrigerators cool, fans running and supply electricity to essentials.

“We never lost power,” he said. Their solar and battery backup saved two freezers full of expensive meats and specialty products that would have been near impossible to replace. “It paid for itself in one storm,” Snyder said.

Shortly after, Super Storm Sandy knocked power out for another seven days. He and his wife never lost electricity.

Nearly a dozen years later, operating a rare breed chicken farm with multiple coops and pens, the Snyders have an even bigger solar array and slightly different battery backup, all paying for itself in self-generation.

For 10 months of the year, their electric bill is around $5.

Back when the couple started looking for a solar contractor, there were very few choices in West Virginia. He found a number for mtvSolar and called to see if the Berkeley Springs company would travel to Summersville, several hours away, to install a system. A salesman said yes, drove down to see their farm and talk about the possibilities.

Snyder said one thing in particular made an impression on him.

He and his wife had started thinking about a combination of solar panels and wind, thinking one of their fields would be a good candidate for a windmill. The mtvSolar salesman didn’t recommend it. The location would have required a 150-ft. mast and the equipment would have been expensive to repair if anything malfunctioned.

“He could have said, ‘Okay, we’ll sell it to you’ but he didn’t,” Snyder said. That honest approach impressed him, and kicked off a long customer relationship, including added solar panels and battery upgrades.

“We have recommended mtvSolar to anyone who’s looking at solar,” said Snyder.

Solar & batteries: A key to energy resilience during winter weather

As winter approaches, North America faces another season of power reliability challenges. Extreme weather events, such as ice storms and snowstorms, can knock out power grids, leaving millions of people without electricity for days or even weeks.

Solar and battery storage systems can provide a critical source of energy during winter weather events. Solar panels generate electricity even on cloudy days, and batteries can store that electricity for use when the grid goes down. This is especially important when temperatures are low and daylight hours are shorter.

Solar and batteries improve energy resilience during winter weather in a few ways:

  • Reduce reliance on natural gas. Natural gas is a major source of electricity generation in many parts of North America. But natural gas pipelines can freeze during extreme cold weather, cutting off the fuel supply to power plants. Solar and battery storage systems reduce reliance on natural gas by providing a reliable source of backup power.
  • Provide continuous power during outages. When the grid goes down, solar and battery storage systems can provide continuous power to homes and businesses. They can keep critical infrastructure up and running, such as hospitals, water treatment plants, and communication networks.
  • Extend the reach of the grid. Solar and battery storage systems can provide power to remote areas that aren’t reached by the traditional grid, improving energy access and resilience in underserved communities.

How solar and batteries work together

Solar panels generate electricity during the day, which can be used to power homes and businesses directly. Any excess electricity can be stored in batteries for use later. When the sun goes down or the grid goes down, batteries can provide backup power.

Solar and battery storage systems can be used to create a microgrid, which is a small, self-contained power system that can operate independently of the grid. Microgrids can be used to provide power to homes, businesses, and communities during emergencies.

Real-life ways that solar & batteries help

There are a number of examples of solar and battery storage systems being used to improve energy resilience during winter weather events. For example:

  • In Texas, a microgrid powered by solar and batteries provided power to a hospital during the February 2021 winter storm.
  • In New York, a solar and battery storage system at a grocery store provided power to the store and its surrounding neighborhood during a power outage.
  • In California, a microgrid powered by solar and batteries is being used to provide power to a community of low-income residents who are often affected by power outages.

Solar and batteries combined with a generator creates a hybrid power source

  • Batteries can store excess electricity generated by solar panels for use later. This can help to bridge the gap between when the sun goes down and when the generator is used to power homes and businesses.
  • With certain system designs, the generator can be used to top off the batteries when they are low. This can help to extend the life of the batteries, reduce the number of times that the generator needs to be used, and cut down on gas consumption.

By combining solar panels, batteries, and a generator, homeowners and businesses can create a hybrid power system that can provide reliable power even during winter weather events.

Solar and battery storage systems can play a critical role in improving energy resilience during winter weather events. By reducing reliance on natural gas, providing continuous power during outages, and extending the reach of the grid, solar and batteries can help to keep people and businesses safe and connected.

Get solar and get cozy!

Harvest the benefits of solar energy this fall season and stay warm and cozy with the power of the sun!

As the leaves turn and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to think about making your home more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Switching to solar energy is a great way to do both, and with the generous incentives available in the mid-Atlantic region, it’s more affordable than ever. Winter is a great time to put your solar plans in motion.

Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that can help you save money on your heating bills while reducing your environmental impact. And with new technologies emerging, it’s more affordable and accessible than ever before.

Federal Tax Credit:

The federal tax credit for solar energy is currently at 30%, which means you can save up big on your solar installation. This credit is scheduled to step down gradually starting in 2032, so now is the time to take advantage of it!

REAP Grant:

The Renewable Energy Appliance Program (REAP) is a grant program that provides funding for solar energy installations. The grant is available to rural businesses and non-profit organizations in the mid-Atlantic region.

Make the switch today and start enjoying the benefits of solar energy:

  •     Save money on your energy bills
  •     Reduce your carbon footprint
  •     Increase your home’s value

Nothing lasts forever: Solar & energy experts are gearing up for the realities of product lifespan

The industry standard warranty on a photovoltaic panel is typically between 25 and 30 years, according to industry experts. At mtvSolar, we work under warranties that promise our components will last 25 years — but we know they will last much longer. Some solar panels installed in the 1980s are still generating effective power still today! Battery systems have a shorter expected lifespan — and generally have a 10-year warranty. But the real-life use of battery backup systems means they last much longer, too.

“Depending on use, they will last much longer.  Most batteries that we install are for backup, and not cycled daily.  So they’re not going to be worn out in 10 years,” says Lydie Miles-Monaghan, Director of mtvSolar’s Department of Technology & Design. Miles-Monaghan is our company’s battery expert, and tracks new developments in lifespan issues and performance for the products we install.

Our customers take the realities of product lifespan into consideration when planning their solar energy and battery storage systems. How old will they be when the panels need to be replaced? Who will own the home then? What’s the age of the roof that will hold a mounted solar array? Will the roof need to be replaced before the solar panels do? What do we do with solar panels and home battery systems at the end of their life?

As solar energy surges in popularity for residential homes, farms and commercial buildings, our industry continues to refine panel design to make them last longer and perform better. Meanwhile, others in the energy sector are figuring out the best way to reuse and recycle solar PV panels that are out of service. Developing these processes will become more important as the number of panels installed grows exponentially.

At mtvSolar, we collect and store broken or aged-out panels and work with a local recycler to dispose of them. Panels that are still functional but have been removed for one reason or another from a customer’s property are held for our service projects and give-away programs. Some customers will upgrade their panels long before they wear out. These are panels that still have years of effective solar generation left in them, and just need a new home, which we love to find.

Battery systems are relatively new in the residential energy world but are taking hold more widely. No lithium batteries we’ve installed have had to be recycled yet. All lead acid batteries are 100% recycled into new batteries.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energies Technology Office is working with the solar industry to track solar panel lifespan, measure the cost of recycling panels (vs. landfilling them) and develop ways to cut the end-of-life disposal costs in half by 2030.

“As we accelerate deployment of photovoltaic systems, we must also recognize the pressing need to address end-of-life for the materials in a sustainable way,” said Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy. “We are committed to ensuring that the recovery, reuse, recycling, and disposal of these systems and their components are accessible, low-cost and have minimal environmental impact.”   

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that 70% of the current solar PV systems in the U.S. have been installed since 2017 — a huge jump in deployment that points to a need for recycling and disposal answers down the road. They are funding projects that promise to reveal new materials, new technologies and better manufacturing processes to reduce pollution associated with the making and disposal of panels. DOE Releases Action Plan For Photovoltaic Systems End-Of-Life Management  | Department of Energy

Our approach at mtvSolar at the local level is to use high-quality components that are proven to last, to install panels and their components properly to maximize their function, and to reuse panels by donating them to nonprofits. Our design team right-sizes all solar installations for each customer, so there are no wasted panels and components can function as they are designed for the full length of their warranty and beyond.

Remote work hinges on the power to stay connected

Working from home wasn’t born during COVID, but pandemic shutdowns and evolving workplaces have made remote work a new mainstream way of earning a living.

Waves of urban and suburban workers have spread out into more rural communities, where the cost of living is lower. More land choices, greater options for homesteading and dreams of self-sufficiency led people to buy homes and property outside of metropolitan areas. Because of remote work options, that no longer means giving up good-paying jobs or professional opportunities. It’s now normal to work on a business team that’s spread across several states, or even countries, and to hold meetings where no one is in the same room together. Adapting to this new work flow has happened successfully for millions of people across all industries. But this revolution hinges on two key factors – the availability of broadband internet and reliable electricity.

Many communities in rural states like West Virginia are pooling federal, state and local resources to expand broadband service to all residents – from families with school children to remote workers. Broadband internet is now considered to be an essential utility, much like electricity.

But some rural residents struggle when electric service fails, taking away the power source for their connection to remote work. Lost power means lost worktime, as some newly-rural workers are finding out. A multi-day outage, not uncommon in some small communities, has impacts on both home and work opportunities.

Solar energy is an excellent option for home power needs, but can be an even bigger game-changer in times of total power outages or grid failures. With a properly-designed system of solar PV panels and battery storage, a house and home office can continue to run essential equipment no matter what the power grid does. Big advances in battery storage options, along with energy management tools, mean mtvSolar customers can control their own power system. These systems — whether in a home or a small business — can be a wise investment for remote workers whose livelihood and new way of life are dependent on continuous broadband internet access, and the power to stay connected.  

If you’re interested in learning more about our expertise in designing a solar power and battery system for your home, business and remote working needs, read more here: https://mtvsolar.com/resource-center/all-about-batteries/ or contact us for a consultation.

Beware of fast & free solar schemes

Adding a solar generation system to your home or business can feel like a big step, with a substantial price tag attached. There’s no way around the fact that solar panels and electrical work cost money. The return on investment is calculated in years, not months.

Unfortunately, there are many solar energy “offers” out there which can put unknowing customers in a bad situation — often by claiming to be able to give away free panels or systems. These misleading scenarios can involve solar leases – where the property owner never owns the system – or outright scams.

If you’re considering adding solar to your home or business, it’s worth the time to check out the details of these offers before signing any contract or letting someone alter your property in any way.

At mtvSolar, we hear from many people that they have been approached by someone wanting to sell or “give” them a solar system – often a ready-made setup that can’t be customized — if they’ll only sign the contract TODAY. This is a red flag for any transaction, and we’re glad to hear many customers say they walked away from those “offers.”

In our experience, most customers want to own their own solar equipment. That lets them be more energy independent, adds home value, qualifies them for tax credits and allows them to manage their own energy usage.

Even with a growing pot of grant money and tax credits out there to support renewable energy efforts, solar panels aren’t free up front. The panels cost money, connectors and electrical supplies cost money, and the skills of a well-trained crew and electrician cost money.

Our Solar PV Consultants are up front about this fact, and spend time running through the numbers with our customers to see how a system can be financed, and will reduce utility costs over the long run.  mtvSolar customers can be eligible for zero-down loans to finance a solar installation over 10-20 years, or a number of other incentives that can reduce the cost of a system. We know that solar is a good financial choice, because we’ve helped customers cut their power bills and even earn money back through solar credits, where available.

mtvSolar has been designing custom solar energy solutions for residential, agricultural and commercial customers since 2009. We’re not in a rush to sell you a ready-made solar system, because that’s not how we work. Each customer has their own energy goal, and each project is unique. We spend the time to educate customers about their options, to customize a system to their goals, and to install it properly so it functions as it should.

Take your time to learn more about solar. Visit our “Resource Center” section on mtvsolar.com to see Frequently Asked Questions and check out the gallery of our work. When you’re ready, we’ll be here to help you achieve your solar energy dreams.