Solar Solutions
While roof-mounted systems are the most popular selection for the implementation of solar, alternatives do exist. Ground-mounted solar systems are a fantastic option as they enable our team to face panels directly south, which is ideal, and tilt panels 30 degrees for maximum sunlight exposure. We’ve also developed innovative solutions — including installing panels on backyard pergolas and other roofed structures — as we’re not afraid to take on a challenge.
Ultimately, we want to position you and your family for long-term, sustainable success as it pertains to properly placing your new solar array. To do that, we use high-level software that creates annual irradiance and shade reports. Our design staff analyzes these documents to determine the ideal design and placement of your panels. Paired with your input, we tailor a solution that will pay for itself over the lifespan of the system’s existence.
Why rent power from the utility companies — whose rates climb an average of 2 to 4 percent annually and jumped 46 percent in 2022 alone — when you can own your energy? Lower your monthly bills from Day 1 and for the next 25-plus years by locking in your fixed rate with Midwest Solar Solutions with one of these mounting options:
Roof Mount Solar Solutions
Roof-mounted solar arrays are the most-installed option by our team of professionals. While asphalt-shingle roofs are the most common, we also have the know-how and experience designing and building systems on metal roofs. Homes featuring flat roofs are no problem either. In fact, flat roofs enable MWSS to point panels directly south and at a fixed 10-degree tilt for ideal radiance exposure.
Roofs are a great option for solar placement for a litany of reasons, including:
Directly harness sunlight: The canopy already acting as an umbrella over your home is perfectly positioned to soak in the sun’s clean, renewable energy.
Added insulation and protection: Roof-mounted systems help protect your roof from UV light, wind, rain, snow and hail. They also keep your roof about 5 degrees cooler than an exposed rooftop, according to a study completed by UC San Diego students. The approximate 5 percent savings on cooling costs adds up in the hot Metro East summers.
No additional space used up: Your roof is already in place and well-positioned to absorb sunlight, while a ground mount takes up some of your yard’s real estate.
Less expensive upfront cost: Roof mounts take less time and initial cost than their ground-mount counterparts. Fewer materials are needed to complete install. No holes need to be dug, soil surveyed or concrete mounting poles added. Roofs just need a rail-mounting system to securely hold panels in place.
Ground Mount Solar Systems
While roof-mounted systems have their advantages, ground-mounted systems also feature several positives and are a terrific choice for certain applications. Pros of ground mounts include:
Optimal productivity: With the flexibility of ground mounts, Midwest Solar can point your panels 180 degrees south and tilt them at a fixed 30-degree slant for ideal production conditions throughout the year.
Easier to access, clean, troubleshoot: Ground mounts make servicing a breeze. Though with MWSS, you won’t have to worry about that anyway. Our dedicated service team fixes any issues free of charge as part of our 15-year workmanship warranty.
Room to grow: While roofs have limited square-footage to work with, ground-mounted systems can be easily added onto should your energy needs change down the line. If you build an addition on your home or simply want more power, ground mounts provide that flexibility with ease.
Increased efficiency: Being raised off your yard enables ground-mounted systems to receive terrific airflow and cooling for hot Illinois summer days. Roof panels aren’t quite as efficient in the extreme heat as their ground-mount counterparts.
Solar Backup Solutions
Energy-storing solutions such as smart switches, generators and batteries are great additions to a roof-mounted or ground-mounted solar array. They hold onto surplus energy generated by your panels and seamlessly turn on when a disruption — such as a power outage — occurs. We recommend backup solar solutions to customers concerned about nighttime electrical usage and prolonged power outages.
Beyond providing power in these circumstances, backup solar solutions offer several additional pluses for your home:
Savings: When your energy consumption is low or your panels are producing peak electricity, the excess energy gets stored in your backup battery. The stored energy can be used during peak hours when electricity rates are higher to reduce your monthly cost.
Sustainability: A great return on investment and an environmentally conscious solution to boot? Backup solutions provide the best of both worlds. You’ll further reduce your need for conventional energy sources and will no longer have to rely on emission-producing generators when your power goes out.
Self-sufficiency: Instead of pulling energy from the grid, a backup solution first enables you with the independence to utilize your own power.
Solid warranties: As the solar industry has surged in popularity, the number of companies producing batteries — and the quality of their products — has also risen. With that quality comes a better manufacturer warranty. Midwest Solar looks for companies that provide a 10-year warranty on their batteries.
Check out what one of our five-star reviewers, Chris M., had to say about his decision to include a backup solution with his solar array investment:
“Even though it’s late in the year now and the sun isn’t out as long, I am still getting more power than I need. I do recommend the battery backup. I think having that extra energy on hand for power outages and also using it at night is a great thing.”
Pergolas, Overhangs & Roofed Structures
We take pride in offering innovative solutions to solve customers’ varying solar needs. To that end, we have the capability of installing solar arrays on pergolas, pavilions, overhangs, attached and detached garages, and most any other roofed structure on your property. The end result is an aesthetically attractive, creative and energy-saving addition to your home.
With pergolas specifically performing as a great landing spot for solar panels, our customers have enjoyed the dual-purpose benefits this addition provides. Not only does the open-air system of a pergola still function as intended with breezes rolling through, but the overhead panels provide great shade as you’re hanging out underneath.
Get Your Personalized Solar Quote Today
In every residential installation, Midwest Solar Solutions handles all components of the process end-to-end. We design, build and service your array while handling permits, interconnecting the system and filing for your state incentive check. Our professional install, service and office team has a customer-centered and clean-cut approach to everything we do. Get in touch with us for any of your residential solar needs today!