Going

Solar 101
Our guide to going solar made easy.
Going solar can be a great
investment for your home.
If you’re new to solar, you may have a lot of questions.
We’re here to help. In this comprehensive solar energy guide, you’ll learn:

3 Top 10 reasons to go solar

8 What you need to know before going solar

13 Answers to the most frequently asked questions about solar

 G O I N G S O L A R 10 1

Top 10 reasons
to go solar
 Top 10 reasons to go solar

1
Reap the rewards of renewable energy

The solar industry is booming. In fact, while solar power only contributed 2.6% of power generation
in 2019, it has increased nearly 43 times since 2010.1 According to the U.S. Energy Information
Administration (EIA), solar power will account for 20% of total U.S. electricity generation by 2050.2
Don’t get dragged down by an old, dated and clunky energy source while your neighbors enjoy
the many benefits of solar.

2 Help reduce your monthly electric bill

Between producing your own electricity and “crediting” back unused solar energy, your monthly
electric bill could be significantly reduced.* That means you could enjoy savings each month for
the life of your solar system. The average lifespan of a solar array is 25 years or longer, depending
on your system’s warranty. ADT Solar’s 25-year Power Production Guarantee**, for example,
promises to provide for the long haul and protect your investment in renewable energy.

S O L A R P OW E R AT-A- G L A N C E
With the Enphase mobile app, you can check
your system’s status at-a-glance and dive into
the details of your system’s health, performance
and per-panel production.

*Savings vary depending on your energy consumption, system cost, home location and characteristics, and your utility’s policies.
**Beginning 12 months after the date your system is operational and continuing for 25 consecutive years, for each 12-month period, ADT Solar guarantees that your system will generate at least 95% of the annual estimated
production for that 12-month period, after accounting for degradation at the rate of .33% per year. If your system does not produce the guaranteed amount for any 12-month period, and you notify ADT Solar within 2 years of the
end of the applicable 12-month term, ADT Solar will pay $.10 per kWh of the difference between your system’s actual production and the guaranteed production for that 12-month period. “Actual production” means the amount of
electricity produced by your particular system, which is calculated using data provided by the system or an estimate prepared by ADT Solar. (Accurate at the time of publication)

GOING SOLAR 101 4

3
Get credit for your unused energy

Excess energy = potential savings for you!* Depending on your system, where you live and the time of day, there may be times your
solar system produces more energy than you can use. Through a program called net metering, you’ll be able to send energy back
to your utility company and earn a credit on your power bill. Although net metering is not available in all U.S. states, as of 2022 it is
available in 33 states, D.C. and four territories.3 You’ll want to check with your state laws and utility company to see if you’re eligible
for net metering.

4
Take advantage of solar incentives

Are you worried about the cost of going solar? We totally get it: there are scary sounding rumors floating around with intimidating
numbers attached. Well, we can put some of your worries to rest! You see, there are many solar incentives** that could benefit you
depending on where you live and your individual situation. Yes, you could receive federal tax credits*** or local tax credits just for
going solar! We encourage you to talk to a qualified tax professional to get the details on your specific situation. And you can read
our handy guide to learn about which solar incentives might be available to you.

5
Protection from climbing energy prices

One month your electric bill is high, the next it’s even higher! Ever wonder why? First of all, your energy usage will vary depending
on the season and time of day. Another factor you may not have considered is that the cost of energy produced from fossil fuels
also fluctuates depending on the market. In fact, residential electricity costs are forecast to rise to 14.75 cents in 2023, which is a
12% increase over the 2020 cost!4 This trend would continue a decade-long streak in climbing prices. Owning a solar energy system
that produces clean energy is one way to have a reliable source of energy at a predictable cost.

*Net metering and similar excess or buyback programs vary by location and utility provider and are subject to change. Rates may go up or down and the money you may save, if any, may vary. For more information
about rates, contact your power company.
**Tax and credits or incentives including those provided by federal, state, or local governments may change or end. This can impact the amount of money you might save. Consult a tax professional to understand any
tax liability or eligibility for any tax credits that may result from the purchase of your solar system.
*** If you have taxable income and own the system, you may qualify for the federal investment tax credit (ITC). It is your responsibility to determine your eligibility and to apply. Consult a qualified tax professional for
assistance and details.

GOING SOLAR 101 5

6 Reduce your carbon footprint

A “carbon footprint” refers to how much pollution in the form of greenhouse gasses is emitted into the air. Practices like the burning
of fossil fuels can contribute to a large carbon footprint for your home. Using solar energy to power your home reduces the amount
of harmful greenhouse gases5 released into the atmosphere. Lifecycle assessments conducted on solar energy show that it has less
of a carbon footprint than fossil fuels. This is because solar panel systems do not produce greenhouse gas emissions when they
generate power.5

7
Increase the value of your home

According to data from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, adding solar to your home could increase
its value6. While it varies from property to property, many homeowners have found that adding a solar panel system helped increase
their home’s asking price.

A number of different factors affect exactly how much value a solar array could add to your home. You can learn more about it here.
They include:

• The cost of electricity in your area

• How much energy your solar system generates
• The age of your system; older systems offer less value
• How costly or challenging it is to get the components of your system replaced

8
Increase your energy independence

If you’re tired of feeling controlled by your utility company, solar can help. Adding a solar system with a solar battery to your home
increases your energy independence. If the power goes out for any reason – from a natural disaster to scheduled maintenance –
essential circuits that power your home can stay powered.*

*Battery will power essential, or critical loads, only. Power available from battery during an outage varies depending on the loads connected, your energy consumption, and battery configuration. Your system,
even with a battery, is not intended for use as a primary or back-up source for critical care including life support and other medical equipment.

GOING SOLAR 101 6

9 Support local jobs

More and more people are working with a very famous co-worker: the
sun! Jobs in the energy sector are expected to grow to 122 million by
2050 worldwide, with solar accounting for the largest share of renewable
energy jobs at roughly 19.9 million jobs.7 The U.S. has seen solar jobs
increase 167% in the past decade.8 And the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
estimates that the solar PV installer employment rate will grow faster9 than
the average growth rate from 2021 to 2031. Going solar while supporting
more local jobs is a win-win for everyone.

10 Tap into the energy of the future

Fossil fuels are depleting10, but renewables are the energy of the
future. Solar energy is a great – and downright appealing – way to
use renewable energy right at home. Using the power of the sun
for your home isn’t just a fad, it’s the future.

F U N FAC T: E N E RGY O F T H E PA ST & F U T U R E

Solar energy has been used in one form or another
since around 1839! And as of 2022, there’s enough solar
installed in the U.S. to power 22 million homes.11

GOING SOLAR 101 7

 G O I N G S O L A R 10 1

What you need to know

before going solar
 Arm yourself
with the facts
We did the research for you. Here we
break down the most important things
you need to know before talking to a
professional about going solar.

GOING SOLAR 101 9

Is your home right for solar?

If you own your home, congratulations! You could be a great candidate for solar. The rest of the factors depend on where you live,
your electricity usage and costs, incentives available and if it makes sense for your budget. A good solar company will also help you
assess external factors such as shade, the direction of your home and the condition of your roof.

Before you consult with a solar specialist in your area, take note of any questions you have and pull out a copy of your electric bill.
Then set up a consultation with a solar company in your area. But how do you choose the right one?

Choose the right solar company

Before you schedule a meeting with a solar installer, you should do some homework to ensure you’re selecting a good partner for
this big investment in your home. Here are a few questions you should research:

• Do they have warranties? • Are they roofing experts?

• Do they have a proven reputation in the industry? • Do they have good customer reviews?
• Have they been in business for over 10 years? • Do they have all their electrical licenses?

GOING SOLAR 101 10

Understand the cost of going solar

Going solar is a big investment and the cost

can vary widely depending on specific factors.12
Some things that determine the cost of installing SHADE E N E RGY CO N SU M P T I O N
a solar system on your roof: Although many people enjoy having Your energy consumption is driven
a tree or two in their yard, less shade by many factors, including the size
is best when it comes to solar. Solar of your family and your home, the
panels operate at their best when efficiency of your appliances and
exposed to direct sunlight13, and how well your home is insulated.
too much shade will lower your solar When you are shopping for a solar
panel’s efficiency. That said, they’ll still system, you should consider how
work well when they receive indirect much energy your family consumes
sunlight14, and it may just be enough and whether you want to install a
RO O F S I Z E A N D O R I E N TAT I O N for your home power goals. big enough system to cover all your
energy needs.
When it comes to how many solar
panels you’ll need, the size of your
roof and its orientation need to be
assessed. Solar panels can capture
sunlight from any angle, but some
orientations are better than others,
depending on which way your roof
faces. For example, if your roof
faces south, you may need fewer
solar panels to generate the desired YO U R E L EC T R I C CO M PA N Y INCENTIVES
amount of electricity. A qualified solar
specialist can assess your situation. Another factor that determines the Last but not least, take into account
overall cost of solar panels is your available incentives to help you cover
electric company. Each electric the cost of solar panels. Federal and
company offers different rates and statewide programs can help greatly
*Net metering and similar excess or buyback programs vary by location
and utility provider and are subject to change. Rates may go up or down
has different metering standards. reduce the overall price of your solar
and the money you may save, if any, may vary. Your utility or electric Whether you can credit extra energy panel system**, which means that
cooperative may not be required to offer net metering. Net-metering
programs vary by state and are subject to change over the life of the back to your electric company, a you could make the transition to
system. For more information about rates, contact your power company. process known as net metering*, is a solar without that worry!
**Tax and credits or incentives including those provided by federal, state,
or local governments may change or end. This can impact the amount of big part of your cost equation, too.
money you might save. Consult a tax professional to understand any tax
liability or eligibility for any tax credits that may result from the purchase of
your solar system.
Complete permitting requirements

You’ll need to obtain permits when installing solar panels on your home.
These permits are regulated by your local Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Many types of improvements to your property will require their approval.
You’ll also need to get approval by your homeowners’ association or any
other organizations that may regulate your neighborhood.

The good news: when you choose a solar company like ADT Solar that takes
care of the permits and deals with the homeowners’ association headaches
on your behalf, you won’t need to worry about this side of things.*

What to expect during a solar installation

Most installations can be completed in a day. Installers might need access to

your electric meter, attic or other parts of the house. So plan to be there on
the big day!

Getting final approval from your utility company

There is one last step left after installation. You’ll need “permission
to operate” from your utility company in order to connect your solar
panel system to the utility grid. This also allows you to participate in net
metering**. After the final inspections are done, the utility company will
come out and connect your system to the grid.

Choosing an experienced solar company like ADT Solar will help you
simplify this process.

*ADT Solar assists with securing approvals from homeowners’ any other property associations as a courtesy. ADT Solar
is not responsible for obtaining authorizations from homeowners’ associations, or planning, zoning, architectural, or
historical preservation commissions.
**Your utility or electric cooperative may not be required to offer net metering. Net-metering programs vary by state
and are subject to change over the life of the system.
*Utility rates and utility rate structures are subject to change. These changes cannot be accurately predicted. Projected
savings from your distributed energy generation system are therefore subject to change.

GOING SOLAR 101 12

 G O I N G S O L A R 10 1

Most frequently asked

questions about solar
 Will solar damage my roof?
When installed correctly, getting solar panels installed on your home should not damage your
roof. Make sure your solar system is installed by a licensed, qualified professional. They’ll
make sure your roof is in good condition for a solar panel install.

Pro Tip: Find a solar company that backs its work with labor guarantees and knows the
ins-and-outs of roofing.

How many solar panels do I need?

The number of solar panels required to power your home and lower your monthly electricity bill
will be determined by several factors:

How much electricity your home uses

• How much of your home you want to power with solar energy
• How much space is available on your roof
• How much sunlight your roof receives
• The power output rating of your solar panels – How much power your solar panels
produce under ideal conditions
• What goals you want to achieve with your solar energy system
• Whether or not you plan to add a solar battery to collect and save any excess energy
produced

Ultimately, the size of your system depends largely on the unique needs of your home and family.

GOING SOLAR 101 14

 Do I really need a solar battery?
Here are 5 important reasons you’ll want to consider a solar battery:

1. Supply your own power at night

2. Gain freedom from rising electricity costs*
3. Have more control of your home’s energy
4. Protection during outages and natural disasters**
5. Peace of mind for you and your family

Are solar panels worth it?

Considering all the factors, going solar is an investment that keeps on producing.
There are plenty of reasons to love solar energy, including:

• Being an environmental superhero

• Saving on your electricity bills***
• More energy independence and protection from fluctuating energy costs

*Utility rates and utility rate structures are subject to change. These changes cannot be accurately predicted. Projected savings from your distributed energy generation system are therefore subject to change.
**Battery will power essential, or critical loads, only. Power available from battery during an outage varies depending on the loads connected, your energy consumption, and battery configuration. Your system, even with a battery,
is not intended for use as a primary or back-up source for critical care including life support and other medical equipment.
***Savings vary depending on your energy consumption, system cost, home location and characteristics, and your utility’s policies.
 *Utility rates and utility rate structures are subject to change. These changes cannot be
accurately predicted. Projected savings from your distributed energy generation system are
therefore subject to change.
**Battery will power essential, or critical loads, only. Power available from battery during an
outage varies depending on the loads connected, your energy consumption, and battery
configuration. Your system, even with a battery, is not intended for use as a primary or back-
up source for critical care including life support and other medical equipment.
***Savings vary depending on your energy consumption, system cost, home location and
characteristics, and your utility’s policies.

We’re serious
about solar
As one of the most trusted brands in America, ADT Solar
empowers people and powers homes. We’re passionate
about bringing the benefits of solar to your home, family and
the world for years to come.

For over 145 years ADT has provided over 6 million

customers with home security. Now you can go solar with the
same peace of mind knowing we have you covered. Protect
your home, invest in your future and power your life. We’re
here for you every step of the way. It’s all part of how we
make life sunnier.

Offering strong warranties and guarantees, we believe in the

solar products we install and the work we perform. An ADT
Solar system is designed and installed to last for decades.
This is the reason why we’re willing to stand behind our
systems for the long haul. We want you to be 100% satisfied
for the entire lifespan of your solar system.

GOING SOLAR 101 16

 Powering homes. Empowering people.

©2022 ADT Solar LLC. The ADT Solar logo is a trademark of the ADT Security Corporation. All rights reserved. The product/service names listed in this document are marks and/or registered marks of their
respective owners and used under license. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

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 S O U RC E S

1
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/08/31/2085905/0/en/The-United-States-solar-energy-market-is-expected-to-grow-at-a-CAGR-of-17-32-during-2020-2025.html
2
https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=50357
3
https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2020/03/which-states-offer-net-metering/
4
https://www.eia.gov/analysis/
5
https://www.un.org/en/chronicle/article/promise-solar-energy-low-carbon-energy-strategy-21st-century
6
https://newscenter.lbl.gov/2015/01/13/berkeley-lab-illuminates-price-premiums-u-s-solar-home-sales/
7
https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2021/Oct/IRENA_RE_Jobs_2021.pdf
8
https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-united-states
9
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/solar-photovoltaic-installers.htm
10
https://www.scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/when-will-fossil-fuels-run-out.html
11
https://www.seia.org/us-solar-market-insight
12
https://www.marketwatch.com/picks/guides/home-improvement/solar-panel-costs/
13
https://www.solarreviews.com/blog/do-solar-panels-need-direct-sunlight
14
https://news.energysage.com/solar-panels-work-shade/

GOING SOLAR 101 18