Keep in mind that your bills have other fixed charges like delivery fees from your utility company. You’ll still have to pay these types of fees after you switch to solar power. Your solar system installer will use this information to help determine what size of solar electric system to install, so keep it handy as you go through the process of switching to solar power.
For example, you can use Google’s Project Sunroof mapping tool here: https://www. google. com/get/sunroof.
Remember that these areas of the roof will have to be exposed to the sun, and probably won’t be as effective if they’re shaded by trees most of the day. [5] X Expert Source Guy GabaySolar Energy Contractor Expert Interview. 4 August 2020. The average residential solar system is around 5 kilowatts, or 20 solar panels, in size. So, you will probably need approximately 500 sq ft (46 m2) of free roof space in total. Keep in mind that the solar installer you hire will take care of the exact calculations and determine the right size of solar electric system for you.
Net metering means that the utility company will pay you or give you credit for any unused solar power your system generates and gives back to the power grid. In the USA, for example, the federal government offers a tax credit equal to about 20-30% of the cost of your solar system. State governments may also provide state tax benefits. You can use the information to help you determine whether you want to buy or lease your solar system, since many incentives only apply to homeowners who actually own the solar system.
There are online databases of solar contractors that you can search for. For example, if you live in California, look up the “California Solar Initiative Database. ” In North America, the standard industry certification for solar contractors is from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
Make sure each installer you speak to is giving you an estimate for a system that is the same size. For example, ask the companies to provide you with an estimated cost per kilowatt. Bids should include the entire cost of everything needed to get your system up and running, such as hardware, labor, connecting to the grid, permits, and sales taxes. Feel free to ask contractors you’re considering for references of other clients in the area that you can talk to to help you decide on an installer. Additional things you can ask contractors to help you choose one are what warranties they offer, how familiar they are with the permitting process, and how many installations they’ve completed in your area.
If every company you spoke to seems equally as good, you can just base your decision on who gave you the best bid.
A solar system includes the solar panels and other vital electrical components. You can buy it directly from your solar installer as part of a package that includes installation and all other costs. Make sure you check both the lifetime and the product/materials warranty before you settle on a solar system. [11] X Expert Source Guy GabaySolar Energy Contractor Expert Interview. 4 August 2020. The average cost to buy and install a 5 kilowatt solar system is around $17,500 USD. This is the price before receiving any tax credits back. [12] X Research source Keep in mind that if you own your solar system, you will also be responsible for maintenance and repairs, which can add to the cost down the line. However, many installers also offer warranties and affordable maintenance plans.
Keep in mind that leasing a solar power system means you won’t be eligible for tax benefits. It’s important to note that solar lease contracts are usually for about 20 years. After that, you can usually buy the system for a discounted price. A solar lease can cost from $50-$250 a month, depending on the size of the system and your location. A benefit of leasing a system is that you aren’t responsible for repairs or maintenance. The company you lease it from will take care of all of that. Solar system leases are offered by many solar installers. Alternatively, your installer might work with a larger leasing company to acquire the equipment.
Like leasing a solar system, you will not be responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the system when you sign a PPA. Signing a PPA is another option when you can’t afford to buy a solar system. However, unlike leasing, you won’t have the option to buy the system at the end of your contract. The average cost per kWh of electricity purchased through a PPA in the USA is $0. 11, compared to $0. 15 that you would pay per kWh through a utility company. Note that this varies by area and PPAs are not allowed everywhere.
It’s possible to install solar electric systems in rented homes as well if you get permission from your landlord. However, this probably wouldn’t make a lot of sense unless you plan on renting the home for the next decade or two.
This often involves someone from your local city or area council coming to perform an onsite inspection of your home.
Make sure you read the contract thoroughly and fully understand all the terms, including monthly fees for things like delivery and administration that you’ll still have to pay.
Make sure you get all the solar system documentation from your contractor, including warranty and maintenance agreement information.
