Akeena Solar (AKNS) is bringing solar energy to the rooftops of the do-it-yourself homeowner. The company's solar panels are now available at Lowe's 21 home improvement stores throughout California.
Andalay AC panels, developed by Akeena Solar in Silicon Valley, have 80% lesser parts, protecting against performance-threatening breakdowns that could happen with ordinary DC power systems.
On sunny days, these solar panels produce energy from the sun and pump it to appliances. But, on cloudy days or nights, 100% power needs have to be met by the grid.
Also, the Andalay AC panels produce 5% to 25% more energy output compared with ordinary DC solar panels.
The rectangular panels retail at $893 apiece. Homeowners could install a few panels now and gradually add on later, unlike DC systems that require a complete redesign when adding panels.
The design is sleek so there are no dangling wires, or bulky inverters and a cluttered look. The panels come with a 25-year warranty covering defects, and can withstand rough weather.
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