FAQ’S
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS).
SMART SOLAR SYSTEMS.
Types of Solar Systems
A: An On-Grid (or Grid-Tied) solar system is connected to your local electricity grid. It generates power during the day, and any excess is exported to the grid through net metering. You can draw power from the grid at night or when solar production is low.
- Best For: Homes and businesses with stable grid connections.
- Key Benefit: Lower electricity bills with net metering.
- Limitation: Does not work during a power outage unless combined with batteries.
A: An Off-Grid solar system operates independently from the electricity grid and stores energy in batteries for use when sunlight is unavailable.
- Best For: Remote areas without grid access.
- Key Benefit: Complete independence from the utility grid.
- Limitation: Higher initial cost due to batteries.
A: A Hybrid solar system combines On-Grid and Off-Grid features. It is connected to the grid but also has batteries for backup.
- Best For: Areas with frequent power outages.
- Key Benefit: Continuous power supply plus savings from net metering.
- Limitation: Slightly higher cost compared to On-Grid systems.
- Best For: Remote areas without grid access.
- Key Benefit: Complete independence from the utility grid.
- Limitation: Higher initial cost due to batteries.
Energy Generation Estimates
A: Average daily generation depends on sunlight hours (4–5 peak sun hours in Pakistan) and system size.
System Size | Avg. Daily Units | Avg. Monthly Units* |
10 kW | 40–50 units | 1,200–1,500 units |
15 kW | 60–75 units | 1,800–2,250 units |
20 kW | 80–100 units | 2,400–3,000 units |
*Monthly estimates are based on average sunny days and may vary with weather, tilt angle, and panel quality.
Solar System Designs
- Standard System: Panels are mounted close to the roof surface, usually at a fixed tilt angle.
- Pros: Lower cost, less structural work needed.
- Cons: Limited use of roof space under panels.
- Elevated System: Panels are installed on a raised structure, allowing roof usage underneath (e.g., parking, storage).
- Pros: Dual-use of space, better airflow for cooling.
- Cons: Higher cost due to more steel and labor.
Batteries
Feature | Lithium (LiFePO₄) | Lead-Acid (Tubular/VRLA) |
Life Span | 10–15 years | 3–5 years |
Depth of Discharge | 80–90% | 50–60% |
Maintenance | Maintenance-free | Periodic water refilling required |
Efficiency | 90–95% | 75–85% |
Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower upfront cost |
Size & Weight | Compact & lightweight | Large & heavy |
Costs & Payments
Cost depends on size, components (panels, inverter, structure, batteries), and installation type. Prices range from PKR 100,000/kW to PKR 220,000/kW depending on specifications.
Yes. We offer bank financing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) for residential and industrial customers.
Maintenance & Performance
- On-Grid: Minimal—just clean panels 1–2 times per month.
- Off-Grid/Hybrid: Maintain batteries as per manufacturer’s instructions.
- On-Grid: No (for safety reasons).
- Hybrid/Off-Grid: Yes, using stored battery power.
High-quality panels last 25–30 years with minimal performance loss.
Net Metering
Net metering allows you to export excess solar energy to the grid and receive credits on your bill. At night or low generation times, you can use these credits to offset your electricity consumption.
Typically 15–30 days depending on the electricity distribution company.
Environmental & Practical Benefits
If your system is designed to match your consumption and net metering is active, you can achieve near-zero or even negative bills.
A 10 kW system can reduce carbon emissions by about 13–15 tons per year.
Installation
- Residential (≤20 kW): 1–2 weeks after payment and approvals.
- Industrial/Commercial: 4–12 weeks depending on size.
Yes, we manage net metering, structural checks, and safety compliance.
Other Important Questions
Yes, but generation will be reduced to 10–30% of peak capacity.
Yes, you can add more panels, batteries, or a hybrid inverter for backup.
Yes, if designed to meet wind load standards (up to 150 km/h for most installations).