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Frequently Asked Questions
SunDurance

Q: Who is SunDurance Energy?
A: SunDurance Energy develops, owns and operates customized solar power solutions for forward-thinking corporations, government entities and communities. SunDurance is an affiliate of The Conti Group, a nationwide leader in civil and industrial infrastructure development/engineering, power, biofuels, environmental remediation and homeland security. Based in New Jersey with offices nationwide, the company has been in business for over 100 years.

Q: Does SunDurance offer different types of solar energy?
A: Yes. SunDurance offers various types of photovoltaic (PV) technology and concentrating solar power (CSP) solutions. Your SunDurance representative will analyze your needs to determine the solution that is right for you.

Q: Does SunDurance offer residential systems?
A: No. SunDurance focuses primarily on providing solar energy solutions to government agencies and corporations. The company typically develops solar systems with capacities of 1MW or more.

Q: How can I find out more information?
A: Click here to request that a SunDurance representative contact you.

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SOLAR POWER

Q: How will my company harness the electricity generated from a solar PV system?
A: The direct current (DC) electricity captured by the solar panels passes through an inverter that converts it to alternating current (AC). AC is the same type of electricity you typically access through your electrical outlets.

Q: Will a solar PV system meet all of my facility’s electricity needs?
A: The location, size and energy usage of your facility will determine what percentage of your energy requirement a solar PV system will be able to meet. A solar PV system can generate up to 100% percent of a facility’s total energy needs.

Q: How long does a solar PV system last?
A: Most solar PV panels carry a manufacturer's warranty of 20–25 years, with a life expectancy well in excess of that. Given the long-term nature of the asset, it is important to find a partner who will do a high-quality installation that will match the longevity of the technology itself and who will be around to provide service over decades.

Q: Is a solar PV system able to produce electricity all year round, even on cloudy days?
A: Yes. A solar PV system can produce energy even on cloudy days. The amount of energy produced is directly proportional to the amount of sunlight available; the more sunlight, the more energy produced.

Q: What requirements must I meet in order to install a solar PV system?
A: Ideally, for commercial installation you should have at least 100,000 square feet of commercial roof space. Your roof should be in good condition and should be able to sustain an additional weight of 5–7 lbs per square foot. If your roof is in need of repair, we often recommend repairing or replacing the roof simultaneously with installing the solar system.

Q: Will solar PV panels hurt the integrity of the roof?
A: No, solar PV panels have no adverse effects on a roof that is in good condition. SunDurance’s structural engineers will analyze the roof before the system is designed to ensure that the integrity of the roof is maintained.

Q: Is it better to install a solar PV system now or wait a couple of years to capitalize on technology improvements and increased solar efficiency?
A: There is no better time than now to purchase a solar PV system because of the various state and federal incentives available today. There has been only limited improvement in solar efficiency over the past decade. In the event that incentives are discontinued, it is possible that technological advances and associated efficiency increases may not fully compensate for the loss of today’s incentive dollars.

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SALES/SERVICE

Q: Are government/state incentives available in my area?
A: There are many federal and state incentives available for companies interested in green power. New Jersey, for example, currently has a renewable energy credit program among the most favorable in North America.

Q: How do I find out which incentives are available to my business?
A: Your SunDurance representative will handle the entire process for you. We’ll let you know what incentives you qualify for, we'll complete all of the necessary paperwork for you, and we’ll mail all of your applications to the appropriate parties for you.

Q: What is Net Metering?
A: Net Metering means the utility provides a solar power generator credit for excess solar power produced that is put onto the utility grid for other customers to use. This credit may be used to offset your own utility costs.

Q: How much money can I expect to save by installing a solar PV system?
A: Your savings will depend on the size of your solar PV system, your geographic location, your demand for electricity, and whether you purchase your system or enter into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). SunDurance will work with you to maximize your savings. Also, installing a solar PV system enhances your corporate image with employees, shareholders, shareholder groups, and customers. Many companies are turning to solar to help satisfy commitments made in their Corporate Social Responsibility objectives. All of these factors add up to a positive financial payback for solar PV projects.

Q: How much does a solar PV system cost?
A: If you choose the PPA offer, your solar PV system costs you nothing up front. You simply pay a competitive rate for your solar electricity and everything else is taken care of.

If you choose to purchase your solar PV or CSP system, then the total cost of hardware and installation is dependent upon the size of your facility, the incentives available in your area and the specific site conditions of your facility. SunDurance will be happy to provide you with a detailed proposal. Click here to request more information.

Q: How long will it take to install a solar PV system?
A: Installation time depends on the size of the system to be installed. Most large scale commercial systems can be completed within three to five weeks with minimal or no impact on the rest of the facility. SunDurance takes pride in its ability to accurately estimate a schedule and meet it.