Elliot Bailey is the CEO and chief editor of Solvoltaics, an independent editorial publication covering solar energy, renewable technology, and practical energy solutions.
His work focuses on making complex solar topics easier to understand, particularly for readers comparing products, planning a system, or trying to determine whether a specific technology suits their needs.
Elliot oversees Solvoltaics’ editorial direction and contributes to content about:
His approach focuses on the difference between product specifications and real-world usefulness. A higher wattage, greater efficiency rating, or lower advertised price does not automatically make a product the right choice for every reader.
Elliot’s work aims to give readers the context they need to make informed decisions. Articles may examine:
Where an article includes personal testing, the testing conditions and practical observations should be distinguished from manufacturer specifications or general research. Content based on published information is not presented as hands-on testing.
Elliot has worked in renewable technology, conservation, and energy-efficient living for eight years. This background informs his interest in how renewable-energy products work beyond the sales page, including their installation requirements, environmental context, maintenance needs, and long-term usefulness.
He is particularly interested in helping readers understand trade-offs. Solar equipment can be valuable, but the best option depends on energy demand, available sunlight, space, budget, local conditions, technical compatibility, and the user’s ability to install and maintain the system safely.
As chief editor, Elliot aims to ensure that Solvoltaics content is:
Prices, availability, specifications, warranties, and regulations may change. Readers should confirm current details with the manufacturer, retailer, utility, or qualified professional before making a purchase or starting an installation.
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Any relevant affiliate or commercial relationship is disclosed in accordance with Solvoltaics’ Affiliate Disclosure and Disclosure policies.
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Introduction The cost to remove solar panels can vary widely depending on factors like the size of the system, location, and whether they're being relocated or completely removed. On average, the cost can range from $500 to over $1,000. So...
Sep 03, 2023 Read More
The performance and longevity of an inverter depend on the correct loading on the AC demand-side and sufficient cooling of the internal components of the inverter. Inverters are fitted with one or more cooling fans dependent on the device's...
Oct 20, 2022 Read More
So, you've got a shiny new pool in your garden, and it's ready to show off to all your friends and family you can finally have the pool parties you always wanted. Or perhaps you are looking to get one and want to know what accessories yo...
Oct 07, 2022 Read More
Overview of Sungrow Sungrow inverters are generally positively reviewed for their efficiency, reliability, and suitability for both residential and commercial solar panel systems. Users often appreciate the brand's balance of cost-effectiv...
Sep 02, 2023 Read More
Inverters are the sacrificial interface components in a power supply system. The inverter protects the battery bank from becoming too deeply discharged and protects them from power spikes and instability in the power grid. Downstream from...
Sep 12, 2022 Read More
Solar panels are one of the best ways to generate power and save money on your electric bill, but what if you have a flat roof? Can you still install solar panels on a flat roof? And if so, how do you go about it? Installing solar panels o...
Apr 10, 2022 Read More
Solar Panels are becoming a great way to save money and the environment simultaneously. The solar market is growing exponentially, and thanks to new tech innovations, solar panels are finding their way into more and more businesses and home...
Jan 27, 2022 Read More
Understanding Commercial Solar Panels The best commercial solar panels often include brands like SunPower, LG, and Panasonic due to their efficiency, quality, and warranty terms. They have a high energy production yield and are known for t...
Aug 09, 2023 Read More
Introduction to Solar Powered Watches There are numerous solar-powered watches on the market, but some of the top-rated ones are the Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Watch for its stylish and environmentally-friendly design and the Seiko Men's S...
Aug 11, 2023 Read More
Delta Company's History and Overview Reviews for Delta Solar Inverters are generally positive, with users commending the product's efficiency, durability, and advanced technology. The inverter's performance, easy installation, and value f...
Aug 18, 2023 Read More
100-watt solar panels are good portable-sized and enough to power stand-alone devices. With these solar panels, you can operate a gate opener or use it for weekend trips. Attach one of these solar panels to your power station to g...
Sep 08, 2023 Read More
Solar panels are a series of photovoltaic cells used to harness and convert the sun's light into usable power for our electric needs. With this constant energy source above our heads, it makes sense that solar power is the best way to move...
Jan 07, 2023 Read More
With the general hubbub and buzz surrounding solar energy, it has become increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction. Solar energy has seen some fantastic improvements over the last few decades, but is it really at the point wher...
Oct 04, 2022 Read More
If you've leased a solar system from Tesla and you've now decided to sell your home, you may wonder how to transfer it or if you can. The good news is you can transfer it, and the process is pretty simple but varies depending upon refinanci...
Oct 19, 2022 Read More
The sizing of the cables for solar systems is critical to the performance and safety of the system. Most household fires result from electrical faults that lead to the overheating of conductors, which leads to a fire. An array of solar pan...
Sep 12, 2022 Read More
Solar power is certainly a great way to save on some electricity bills and move your home toward a greener, more sustainable future. That said, calculating your power needs and designing a solar system to match those needs can be confusing,...
Sep 20, 2022 Read More
Introduction to Solar Cells Solar cells, also known as photovoltaic cells, are made from silicon, a semi-conductive material. Silicon is sliced into thin disks, polished to remove any damage from the cutting process, and coated with an ant...
Sep 02, 2023 Read More
Inverter mount orientation can be horizontal or vertical, depending on the installation instructions from the manufacturer. Horizontal installation is most commonly advised, but some manufacturers also specify vertical orientation. Mounted...
Oct 26, 2022 Read More
So, you have a Ring solar panel to connect to your Spotlight cam so you can see what's going on outside your front door even when you're not home? Great idea! But what if you're having problems getting it connected properly? The Ring Spotl...
Nov 18, 2022 Read More
Tesla has quickly become one of the most well-known and revered names in solar energy, despite only entering the market just over a decade ago. While Tesla is now mostly known for its searingly fast and efficient electric vehicles, the comp...
Aug 26, 2022 Read More
Portable power stations such as the Jackery range often come with their own proprietary solar panels for charging the power station from the sun. Is it possible to use solar panels from a different manufacturer such as Renogy to charge your...
Jul 13, 2022 Read More
Introduction to Solar Leasing A solar lease is an agreement between a homeowner and a solar company where the company installs solar panels on the homeowner's property at no initial cost. The homeowner then pays a fixed monthly fee for the...
Sep 03, 2023 Read More
So many people want to go solar but wonder what the steps are to install solar panels. If that's you, we have some information you should enjoy. It is a guide to installing solar panels, and we keep it short and sweet. But, we saved a bit...
Dec 05, 2021 Read More
Some inverters and, more specifically, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) inverters must run continuously to supply alternating current of stable voltage and current strength to the connected AC loads. Such an inverter system cannot remain...
Apr 04, 2022 Read More
Mounting solar panels are typically done on roofs, but it is sometimes better and beneficial to your setup to mount them on the ground. Ground-mounted solar panels are great for security systems, and lighting, and when you need to access...
May 08, 2022 Read More
Introduction to Solar Water Heater Installation To install a solar water heater, first select an appropriate location with maximum sunlight exposure to install the solar panels, either on your rooftop or ground. After this, connect the sys...
Aug 30, 2023 Read More
Introduction The best solar tracking systems often depend on particular needs and environments, but two highly rated ones are the AllEarth Solar Trackers and the NEXTracker. These systems accurately follow the sun's path to maximize energy...
Aug 09, 2023 Read More
Let's face it; solar panels take a beating from the elements! These solar electrical generators need to be pretty sturdy to stand up to the weather between the sun, the rain, the snow, high winds, and hail! Solar panels are waterproof as,...
May 07, 2022 Read More
Understanding the Basics of Off-Grid Solar System A DIY off-grid solar system involves gathering solar panels, batteries, charge controllers, and inverters to generate and store your own electricity independent of any public utility grid....
Aug 24, 2023 Read More
Introduction Off-grid solar system installation involves setting up solar panels, a battery bank, a solar charge controller, and an inverter to generate and store electricity independently from the main utility grid. This process requires...
Aug 21, 2023 Read More
More and more homes are beginning to use solar power to offset their regular utility costs. Once considered an upgrade for the wealthy homeowner, solar panels are now as accessible as any other home improvement. You can even use solar panel...
Aug 26, 2022 Read More
Understanding Solar Power Systems When the batteries in a solar power system are fully charged, any excess electricity generated by the solar panels is usually sent back into the grid if the system is grid-tied. If the system is not tied t...
Aug 25, 2023 Read More
Introduction: Basics of Solar Panel and Battery Connection To connect a solar panel to a battery, you'll first need a solar charge controller which regulates the voltage and current coming from your solar panels. Then, connect the solar pa...
Aug 23, 2023 Read More
Even if you have a more than sufficient solar array to charge your battery bank, there are times when you need an alternative method of charging. A two or three -day storm with heavy clouds will drain a battery bank. Some form of damage,...
Sep 12, 2021 Read More
Whether you are powering your home, some extra gadgets on a road trip, or anything in between, you might be wondering which type of battery is best for use with a 50-watt solar panel. The world of solar power can be overwhelming. Here, we...
Nov 07, 2021 Read More
Introduction to SolarEdge Technologies SolarEdge inverters receive positive reviews for their high-quality, efficient operation and advanced features like panel-level optimization. Customers also appreciate their long warranties and remote...
Sep 06, 2023 Read More
Introduction Goodwe inverters generally receive positive reviews for their performance, efficiency, and affordability. Users appreciate features like Wi-Fi monitoring and silent operation. However, some users report difficulties with custo...
Sep 03, 2023 Read More
Solar panel inverters are one of the major components of a solar system. You're in the right place if you need to know more about inverter types, repairs, and connections. Many solar arrays do not have a solar battery storage system and r...
Dec 19, 2022 Read More
Introduction Researching the worst solar inverters would typically involve finding products with the lowest ratings and most negative customer reviews. However, providing a definitive list is challenging as the effectiveness of a solar inv...
Aug 20, 2023 Read More
Understanding Solar Power Inverters To repair a solar inverter, first, you need to diagnose the problem, which is often indicated by the error code displayed on your inverter's LCD screen. Once the issue is identified, refer to the inverte...
Aug 17, 2023 Read More
Overview of Solar Inverters To reset a solar inverter, first, turn off the solar inverter's AC and DC disconnect switches. Then, after waiting for about five minutes, switch the DC disconnect back on, followed by the AC disconnect. The ste...
Aug 11, 2023 Read More
Solar panels are a large investment and a change in lifestyle, so it is worth researching the long-term costs. In order to maximize the benefits of your solar panel, it's essential to understand how long does a solar panel last and learn...
May 08, 2022 Read More
Like your car that needs a regular oil change and service to maintain its operational condition, solar panels also need to be cleaned regularly to maintain the efficiency of the supply and prolong your PV system's life. It makes sense to ma...
Oct 07, 2022 Read More
The Anker 555 is a great power station for anyone looking for a robust and reliable way to charge their devices. With its power-management technology, this device safely charges your electronics fast. It's designed for portable po...
Sep 08, 2023 Read More
Regarding portable solar panels, two names are trending right now: Go Power and Renogy. What We'll Discuss in This Article: Background information on each company What types of products each company offers W...
Sep 08, 2023 Read More
If you are considering buying solar panels to keep your devices going when the power fails, or for use in mobile applications like RVs, you'll be glad to know you can do this without breaking your budget or having to remortgage your home....
Jan 23, 2022 Read More
The lakes are frozen, and the fish are waiting walleye and perch, burbot, and lake trout! And, you've got your gear ready, packed in your ice house, ready to go. It's ice fishing time! While heating may be a top priority for icehouse owner...
Feb 13, 2022 Read More
Introduction The best solar panels for RVs are often lightweight, efficient, and durable. One of the top choices is Renogy's 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit which includes all important solar accessories. Other popular c...
Aug 28, 2023 Read More
Introduction Renogy flexible solar panel reviews generally suggest that the product is well-regarded for its efficiency, light weight, and compact size. However, some users mention issues with durability and a lack of longevity, particular...
Aug 16, 2023 Read More
I recently bought a beautiful pop-up camper. But the power system was outdated, So I researched the best solar panel for pop-up campers. In this article, you will learn a lot about the following : Common questions about solar systems Be...
Jul 15, 2022 Read More
Generally, solar panels are available in the range of 200 to 400 watts. However, some models go beyond the 400-watt mark. For medium and big solar installations, a 500-watt solar panel is ideal as it produces maximum electricity. This cap...
Oct 18, 2021 Read More
Introduction to Solar Charge Controller Installation A solar charge controller is typically installed in a solar power system and is connected between the solar panels and the battery storage. The process involves connecting the panels' wi...
Sep 02, 2023 Read More
Introduction The best portable solar charger as per consumer reviews and ratings is the Anker 21W Dual USB Solar Charger due to its high conversion efficiency and durability. It has fast charging technology and is highly portable, making i...
Aug 24, 2023 Read More
Introduction to Solar Charge Controllers MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) are two types of solar charge controllers. MPPT is more advanced and efficient as it adjusts its input to harvest the maximum pow...
Aug 14, 2023 Read More
Charge controllers play a vital functional role in regulating the current and voltage between the solar panels and the batteries. They essentially ensure that batteries aren't overcharged and thus prevent damage and extend their performance...
Feb 26, 2022 Read More
Introduction to Solar Pool Heating Common problems with solar pool heating systems can include inadequate pool heating due to incorrect system sizing or poor solar panel placement. Issues can also occur with the solar panel leaking, deteri...
Aug 28, 2023 Read More
One of the main drawbacks of the traditional way most solar panels are installed on residential properties is that it requires drilling through the roof, which presents a few problems. The biggest problem with drilling into the roof is tha...
Dec 19, 2022 Read More
We've all experienced it à  just when you really need it, your smartphone dies without a charger or electric output in sight! Or, you're out on a hike or camping trip snapping photos, when your phone battery dies and there's no means to...
Sep 25, 2021 Read More
Designing a home solar energy system is certainly an exciting process, but it can become rather confusing too. When designing your system, there are two vital components to consider first; solar panels and batteries. Once you've decided yo...
Sep 09, 2022 Read More
To use a solar charger, firstly, expose its solar panels to direct sunlight. Once the charger has absorbed enough solar energy and is fully charged, connect it to your device using a USB cable or the connector that is compatible with your d...
Aug 19, 2023 Read More
To install a solar charge controller in an RV, first connect the battery, then connect the solar panel to the charge controller. Make sure the system is properly grounded. Specific steps can vary depending on the model of your solar charge...
Aug 21, 2023 Read More
The number of solar panels needed can vary based on the RV's AC power requirements, sunlight exposure, and efficiency of the solar panels. Generally, it may require around 6-8 standard 250-watt solar panels to run a typical RV AC unit that...
Aug 15, 2023 Read More
Dometic makes some of the best portable camping fridges on the market, most of which can run on normal electric power plus 12V power outputs. These fridges are efficient, highly portable, and of high quality and are the go-to for many RV...
Sep 08, 2023 Read More
Understanding Solar Power Leasing Yes, you can receive a tax credit for leasing solar panels in the United States. This falls under the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of installing a solar e...
Aug 24, 2023 Read More
From Solar to Electric: Understanding the Process Yes, it is possible to convert solar lights to electric. You'd need to remove the solar panel and battery, then modify the light to connect to a safe and appropriate power source. However,...
Aug 21, 2023 Read More
Rain-X is the ‘go-to’ water repellant for many vehicle owners. Put some of this on your vehicle’s windows, and you will be able to watch those beads of rain just bounce off. A lot of people do ask the question ‘can you use Rain X on solar...
Sep 12, 2021 Read More
How Much Will a 18kW Solar System Save? Investing in an 18kW solar system can result in substantial savings over time. On average, this system can save up to $5,585 per year. Over the 25-year lifetime of the solar panels, the total savings...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 15kW Solar System Save? A 15kW solar system has the potential to save you a significant amount of money on your electricity bills. On average, this system can save up to $4,654 per year. Over the 25-year lifetime of the sol...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 13kW Solar System Save? When considering the installation of a 13kW solar system, it's important to understand the potential savings it can provide. On average, this system can help you save up to $4,033 per year. Over the...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 12kW Solar System Save? Investing in a 12kW solar system can lead to substantial savings on your electricity bills. On average, homeowners can save up to $3,723 per year by harnessing solar energy with a 12kW system. Over t...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 10kW Solar System Save? By investing in a 10kW solar system, you can save a substantial amount of money on your electricity bills. On average, a 10kW solar system can save you up to $3,103 per year. Over the course of the p...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 100kW Solar System Save? Installing a 100kW solar system can lead to significant cost savings over time. On average, a 100kW solar system can save up to $31,025 per year. Over the 25-year lifetime of the solar panels, this...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 1000kW Solar System Save? One of the main reasons people choose to invest in solar systems is the potential for significant savings on electricity bills. A 1000kW solar system can save up to $310,250 per year, based on curr...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 1.5kW Solar System Save? When considering a solar system, one of the primary concerns is potential savings. With a 1.5kW solar system, you can save up to $465 per year. Over the 25-year lifespan of the solar panels, this tr...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 0.5kW Solar System Save? One of the key advantages of installing a 0.5kW solar system is the potential for significant cost savings. On average, a 0.5kW solar system can save you up to $155 per year. Over the lifetime of th...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 90kW Solar System Save? Investing in a 90kW solar system can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills. On average, this system can save you up to $27,923 per year. Over its estimated panel lifetime of 25 years,...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
How Much Will a 9kW Solar System Save? Investing in a 9kW solar system can lead to significant cost savings over time. On average, this system can save up to $2,792 per year. Over the course of a 25-year panel lifetime, the total savings c...
Jul 18, 2023 Read More
Solar Panels are more correctly called Photovoltaic Cells as they will generate electrical power when light of sufficient intensity falls on them. They have been named solar panels because the sun is the most efficient source of light on...
Sep 08, 2023 Read More
Solar panels are a source of power. Portable Solar Panels can charge your devices and let you use appliances wherever you are. If you want to go off-grid, get away from the grind, be more environmentally friendly and enjoy a clean energy s...
Oct 07, 2022 Read More
Cleaning Solar Lights with Vinegar: A Comprehensive DIY Guide Cleaning solar lights with vinegar is a simple and effective way to maintain their efficiency. Create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Gently wipe the solar pan...
Sep 05, 2023 Read More
Understanding Solar Panel Protective Coating Solar panel protective coating is a special coating applied to the outer surface of solar panels to maintain their durability and efficiency. This coating can protect solar panels from various w...
Aug 21, 2023 Read More
It is of critical importance that the inverter in an RV be correctly grounded to prevent the risk of electrocution of the inhabitants. The RV system may be an off-grid system or have the option of connecting to shore power (grid-tied), and...
Apr 04, 2022 Read More
Although they work with light, solar panels are not light! They are pretty darn heavy, and one of the challenges you face if you are doing a DIY installation is how to lift your solar panels onto the roof. To lift solar panels onto your ro...
May 07, 2022 Read More
If you live somewhere sunny, you’ve probably considered jumping to solar energy for your house or business or just partially supplementing your energy supply using solar panels. One of the main concerns about solar panels is whether you w...
Sep 16, 2022 Read More
Introduction to Thin Film Solar Panels Thin film solar panels are a type of photovoltaic solar panel made by depositing one or more thin layers, or thin film (TF) of photovoltaic material on a substrate. They are lighter and more flexible...
Sep 02, 2023 Read More
What Happens to Solar Lights Over Time? If your solar lights are broken, you might be able to fix them by cleaning or adjusting the panels, replacing the batteries, or checking the wiring inside. However, if the lights are damaged beyond r...
Aug 12, 2023 Read More
The Future of Solar Powered Vehicles Solar powered vehicles are automobiles that are driven by solar energy converted into electrical energy. These vehicles consist of photovoltaic cells that capture solar rays and convert them into electr...
Aug 22, 2023 Read More
The VW T5 is a popular vehicle choice to convert into a campervan. The spacious interior is ideal for housing all your camping equipment and even installing a bed in the back. Many people install solar systems into these vehicles to power t...
Jul 16, 2022 Read More
200-watt Solar panels are excellent for powering an RV, camp setup for power on the move. When purchasing solar panels (200 watts), you must know what devices you can run on a 200-watt solar panel kit, how many you need, and other details t...
Aug 23, 2022 Read More
Introduction to Solar Gopher Stakes Solar gopher stakes are a form of pest control often used in gardening or farming. They produce a sonic pulse or vibration that’s aimed at deterring gophers and other burrowing animals from damaging crop...
Aug 31, 2023 Read More
Introduction to Hybrid Solar System The price of a hybrid solar system can vary greatly depending on the size, features, and installation costs. On average, a typical home hybrid solar system in the U.S. can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $...
Aug 27, 2023 Read More
Monocrystalline Solar Panels Explained The cost of monocrystalline solar panels varies depending on the size and brand. On average, the price can range from around $300 to over $1,000 per panel. However, the overall cost will also depend o...
Aug 09, 2023 Read More
Many consider solar power the wave of the future, but people still have many questions about solar power technology. Concerns about Powerwalls from Tesla charging during power outages are often present when people consider installing them....
Oct 19, 2022 Read More
Introduction To build a DIY solar hot water storage tank, you’ll need materials like a solar collector, an insulated storage tank, copper tubing, and a heat exchanger. The collector will harness the sun’s energy to heat the water, which th...
Aug 28, 2023 Read More
Understanding On-Grid and Off-Grid Solar Systems On-grid solar systems are tied to the local utility grid and it can supply extra power back to the grid. Off-grid solar systems are not connected to the local utility grid and rely on batter...
Aug 31, 2023 Read More
Solar panels represent a significant investment. Figuring out how to protect solar panels from hail is part of protecting that investment. Large hail that dents cars and breaks through vehicle windshields can damage all types of solar panel...
Apr 10, 2022 Read More
Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency To increase solar panel efficiency, it’s important to position them in a place where they receive maximum sunlight throughout the day, typically facing south in the Northern Hemisphere and north in the...
Aug 08, 2023 Read More
A solar panel generates electricity when it is exposed to sunlight. If you only need this electricity during daylight hours, is there any need to hook up a battery to your solar panel controller, or can you use it without a battery? Here a...
Oct 18, 2021 Read More
People have long considered using solar power to provide electricity for an entire household an excellent way to save money. However, for many families, the setup and installation costs are prohibitive. Tesla launched a new option in 2016 t...
Oct 26, 2022 Read More
Solar systems are an important alternative energy source and offer power solutions for many applications. This is all well and good when the sun shines, but what about those cloudy days? Which solar panels work best for overcast skies and l...
Sep 13, 2022 Read More