i’ve been trying to research new energy sources for my house including solar, wind, and human powered pedal options. Solar seems like the most commercialized now but if it works, why doesn’t everyone use it. A lot of companies like BP, Mitsubishi, and GE have websites advertizing solar but they don’t explain enough about cost and instalation. if anyone out there already uses this tech i’d appreciate some intel.
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its worth it alright, but it cost millions! that’s why a lot of people don’t use it! I hope this helps you!
I had a system installed last year and I think it is well worth the investment. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered when you make your decision. The location of your house, the location of the panels, any shade elements, the amount of energy you use, if your roof can handle the weight of the panels, will you need to upgrade your electrical system, how long you intend to live in the home etc, do you have net metering, rebates and tax credits.
Here is some general info on my system: I have a 20 panel 3.74 kwhdc system, the total installed cost was $ 26K, I got a $ 10K rebate from my utility, I have net metering, which means my meter runs backwards when I produce more than I use, in essence I am a small power station for the city. I received a $ 2K fed tax credit, this year it has increased to 30% of the total cost of the system, so if would have been almost $ 8K. I didn’t try to zero out my bill, I expected to reduce my usage by at least 30%, but with other energy saving strategies, I’m producing well over 50% and more like 75% of my electrcity. I expect to break even no later than my 6th year. My average summer bill was well over $ 200, last summer I didn’t go over $ 25. My highest bill was in Jan. it was $ 35, last month I paid $ 6.11 for electricity. I live in a 2000 sf home with a pool. I estimate I will save well over $ 50K over the life of the panels.
My best advice is ask a contractor to come give you an estimate, a site visit is necessary to give an accurate estimate. You should be able to contact your utility and get your usage history, 2 years will give you a good idea of how much energy you produce. A local contractor would also know about rebates and utility company policies. The company I used has a structural engineer and an electrical engineer to make sure the house is compatible with the system.
It is in the long run. The federal government pays for part of it, and some states pay part of it too, so you pay around half of what it really cost. Then you stop getting electrical bills and actually put energy into the grid, so you end up getting paid and make a profit if you are willing to wait for long term profit.