I have commercial tenants and I believe that I can generate more than they’d use. I am planning on replacing the wiring in the building and can install individual meters.
Also, I intend to replace the roof. Is there a good solar roof material that serves as the roof covering and solar energy collector?
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Call PG&E. Your meter will run backwards and they will credit you for your generation.
Most likely you’ll set up a deal with the utility company to have them install a grid-tie meter that can monitor power you put out as well as take in.
As for a roofing material, they just recently came out with solar roof tiles. Here’s an example: http://www.premierpower.com/solar_energy_residential/roof_solar_tile.php
I don’t think they generate as much electricity as other panels because they’re limited in their orientation to the sun. That may be ok for you though since the savings from the roof install may make up for this.
I don’t know about using a solar roofing material that covers the roof and serves as the collector but in order to sell the energy you just need to look up “net metering laws” in California. You’ll have to pay PGE to install a separate meter and hook up your new “off the grid” building to the grid but it’s doable and you might be able to make money off of your idea.
Goos Luck!