Q: How do I know where the best location on my wall is?

We’ve partnered with Scanifly ( https://scanifly.com ) to develop an awning siting algorithm based on customer photos, satellite imagery, and, if necessary, drones. The algorithm will combine these images with sun and shading patterns to tell us the optimal locations and expected output for the desired system size. This data also enables us to provide the customer with the engineering and electrical drawings and hardware specifications needed for permitting.

Question 1

How big is it?

Accepted Answer

A single awning unit extends about 55” from the wall in the horizontal position and measures about 66” along the wall.  We’ve designed it to be modular so you can easily add as many of those units side-by-side for as long as there is wall space.

Question 2

How much electricity does it produce?

Accepted Answer

Each unit produces approximately 400 Watts, so if you have ten of them in a row it would be a 4kW system.

Question 3

Can I install it myself?

Accepted Answer

There are two parts to the installation process. The first is attaching a frame to the wall studs and mounting each awning unit onto the frame. The second is connecting the system to the electrical panel and we recommend hiring a licensed electrician for that. The mounting, though, is straightforward because the system comes pre-assembled and the framing system is highly-intuitive. Two people could mount it or you could tap into our network of installers for a fixed fee.

Question 4

How do I know where the best location on my wall is?

Accepted Answer

We’ve partnered with Scanifly (https://scanifly.com) to develop an awning siting algorithm based on customer photos, satellite imagery, and, if necessary, drones. The algorithm will combine these images with sun and shading patterns to tell us the optimal locations and expected output for the desired system size. This data also enables us to provide the customer with the engineering and electrical drawings and hardware specifications needed for permitting.

Question 5

Does it work with batteries?

Accepted Answer

Batteries not included.  Only kidding, of course it works with batteries.  We use the same “Tier 1” UL-rated solar panels and inverters as the big players so we’re compatible with all the leading battery brands.

Question 6

Is it certified?

Accepted Answer

We’re working with Underwriters Laboratory, the International Code Council and a team of structural, mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure the system is compliant with building and electrical codes. The National Renewal Energy Laboratory is conducting a computational fluid dynamics analysis of the product under different wind conditions and a prototype will undergo physical load testing at ICC-NTA’s ISO 17025 independent testing laboratory (https://www.icc-nta.org).

Question 7

Why is it only for single-story structures?

Accepted Answer

To make installs easier and safer we attach the system to wall studs just below the roof line. You could attach it above the first story window line of a two-story structure but the system will likely experience too much shading. You could also attach it just below the roof line on the second floor but it might look…..different. (But we ❤️ early adopters!)

Question 8

I don’t need an 8kW system and thought about buying something half that size but I personally can’t install it on my roof and installers won’t either because it’s not worth it to them.

Accepted Answer

We’ve heard from so many people that want something between 2-5 kW, large enough to significantly reduce their electric bill but costing way less than an average rooftop system. People should have affordable options for small home solar systems and we think we have one with PowerGrab’s photovoltaic awning.

FAQ