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Frequently asked questions
Straight answers, before the survey.
The questions every client asks — answered the way we'd want them answered, trade-offs included.
What happens during load-shedding?
It depends on the system. On-grid systems shut down during an outage — by design, for line-worker safety. Hybrid systems switch to battery in milliseconds and keep your essential circuits running. Off-grid systems never notice, because they don't use the grid at all. If load-shedding is why you're going solar, you want hybrid.
How does net metering work in Pakistan now?
You can still export surplus solar to the grid through a bidirectional meter with DISCO approval — but the rules shifted to a net-billing model, and export is now credited at a much lower rate than the units you buy. Practical consequence: exporting is a bonus, not the business case. Systems should be sized for self-consumption first, which is why hybrid systems with storage now beat oversized on-grid systems for most buyers. We design around the current rules and handle the complete DISCO application either way.
How much roof space do I need?
Rule of thumb: 80–100 sq ft per kW for standard residential panels. A 5 kW system needs roughly 450–500 sq ft of unshaded, structurally sound roof. Orientation and shading matter as much as area — that's exactly what the free site survey establishes.
What about monsoon, dust and cloudy days?
Panels generate in daylight, not just direct sun — expect roughly 30–60% of rated output on overcast days, and reduced totals in monsoon weeks. We size systems against Karachi's full-year solar data, not the best month. Dust is the bigger enemy: a simple monthly wash typically recovers 5–15% of lost output.
What warranties do I get?
Tier-1 panels carry 25–30 year performance warranties and 10–12 year product warranties from the manufacturer. Inverters typically carry 5–10 years depending on brand and registration. On top of manufacturer cover, VoltEdge warrants its installation workmanship — and unlike much of this market, we answer the phone after commissioning.
What maintenance does a solar system need?
Less than most people expect: periodic panel cleaning, an annual electrical inspection, and monitoring-app checks we help you set up. Batteries add periodic health checks. We offer O&M plans for commercial systems and after-sales support on everything we install.
Can I finance a solar system through a bank?
Yes. The State Bank of Pakistan's renewable energy financing scheme enables banks to finance solar installations — including solar tubewells — at concessional rates, and several commercial banks run their own solar loan products. Terms change; we'll point you to current options and help prepare the technical documents a bank requires.
How much water does a solar tubewell deliver?
It depends on pump HP, bore depth and your water table. Indicatively, at around 100 ft dynamic head: a 10 HP solar pump delivers roughly 2,500–3,500 gallons per hour across the solar day. We measure your bore before quoting — sizing from real head data is the difference between a system that irrigates and one that disappoints.
Does a solar tubewell work on cloudy days?
Yes, at reduced flow — the VFD slows the pump to match available sunlight rather than stopping it. Output drops roughly in line with cloud cover. Most farms handle this with storage (a pond or overhead tank filled on strong days) or by scheduling irrigation around weather. We design the water plan with you, not just the pump.
What does a solar system cost?
It varies with system type, battery capacity and equipment selection — which is why we don't publish one-size price lists. The honest answer comes from your bill and a site survey: send us your electricity bill on WhatsApp and we'll give you an indicative quote within 24 hours, free.
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Send us your bill on WhatsApp — we'll reply with an indicative system size and quote within 24 hours.