Oscar Mark writes on solar energy with one objective-make clean power understandable and accessible to all. At Top Solar Picks, he covers everything from reviews of solar panels to energy bill cutting tips. With his background in environmental science and years of research on clean technology, Oscar combines knowledge with curiosity in his writing.
All of his articles are vetted and edited by John Tanko, the Founder of Top Solar Picks, so they are always free from factual inaccuracies and are written from expert insight. When Oscar is not writing, he enjoys testing solar equipment, analyzing energy data, or having quiet weekends in nature.
Canada solar power is fast emerging as a realistic choice for the increasingly high cost of household and business electricity across the nation. With the progress... Read more.
Looking for the best outdoor solar lamp to brighten up the patio, garden, or pathway of your home? With the rising cost of electricity and the trend of green living,... Read more.
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. Sunlight hitting the cells produces direct current (DC) electricity, which is converted to alternating current (AC) by an inverter to power your home or office.
How long do solar panels last?
Most solar panels are warranted for 25 years and operate efficiently for 25–30 years or more. They gradually lose efficiency but remain a reliable source of power for decades.
What are my savings if I install solar panels?
Savings depend on location, usage, and system size. Homeowners typically save 50%–100% on electricity bills, which can add up to tens of thousands of dollars over 25 years.
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Solar panels need little maintenance — mainly occasional cleaning to remove dust/debris and system checks. Most systems also include monitoring tools to track performance.