Feb

Top 6 things to keep in mind before installing rooftop solar panels

In the last decade, the cost of solar installation has decreased by 70%, says the Solar Energy Industry Association. Thus, a solar panel is becoming the choice of many households nowadays. Why not, the benefits of installing a solar power system, are far more than just saving on your electricity bills.

Solar power plants are changing the lives of people all over the world by providing clean, renewable energy for everyday use. Harnessing the power of the Sun to generate your electricity is a practical way to contribute towards a sustainable environment. A solar power plant reduces your carbon footprint and leads to considerable savings.

With high durability and low maintenance cost, a solar panel is more or less a one-time investment. If you are planning to install a rooftop solar panel, there are few things you should keep in mind. So, before you make your big purchase, these six prerequisites will come very handy.

1. Does your roof support a solar power plant?

First things first, the most crucial thing to know before you plan on installing a solar panel is to see the condition of your roof. If your roof needs repair or a fix, it is a good idea to get it done first. Although it is possible to get best roof repairs done after you have installed a panel, however, this will incur an extra cost. The uninstallation and reinstallation of a roof panel will waste you a lot of time and resources. Most of the solar panels come with a life of about twenty-five years, and they will probably work fine even after that. So, if you estimate your roof life much less than that, you can consider getting a roof replacement. Roofing company Renton offers an array of a world-class roofing system to suit your needs.

2. How much energy do I consume?

Having the right solar energy system will help you reduce your electricity cost and increase your return on investment. The number of the solar power system you install is dependent on two things – the size of your roof and your usage. You can keep an eye on your monthly utility bill and calculate the rough estimation of energy you will be using in a month. Factors like sun exposure, the placement angle of the panel, etc. can cause variation in the output of the solar panel.

However, an average panel produces between 250 to 400-watt power. This is enough to feed your small appliances. But, if energy consumption is more in your household, you can install more than one panel.

3. Off the grid system or On-grid?

The kind of solar panel you choose entirely depends on your energy consumption and how much money you are willing to spend. You can choose from two types of solar panels. An off the grid system is the one that stores extra electricity your panel produces in a battery.

The extra battery adds on to the cost of the panel, making an off the grid system expensive. However, your battery storage is enough to serve you the entire year-round. Therefore, there is little or no dependence on an outer source of power. An on-grid system is relatively cheap. This system works in connection with the utility grid. Any extra electricity your panel produces goes back to the utility grid. You can earn credit for the power you export, making these systems more cost-effective.

4. Who should be my vendors?

The cost of installing a solar panel has come down in the past couple of years. It is still an investment that requires a little amount of homework. This study recommends buyers to compare the prices of various solar energy providers as small installers can offer better rates than big companies. You can compare for quotes from various vendors before making a decision. You can also opt for a DIY where you can purchase your solar panel by yourself and then contact a local contractor for the installation.

5. How will I make my installation cost-effective?

The upfront cost of the panel is quite an investment, but a sustainable home is worth it. But the good news is, your solar system can payback itself, if on calculating long-term saving estimates. Every extra watt of electricity your panel produces can help you earn extra credit, making an on-grid system particularly very cost-effective. You can check with your providers to create a detailed plan that can give you a substantial amount of savings.

6. Should I lease or buy?

Before you decide on buying a solar power system, explore all the options, such as renting and leasing one. In some states, purchasing a power plant can give you a tax benefit. Even though the cost of a solar system has reduced over the years, it can still be a hefty investment. Leasing can be an option if you do not want to assume maintaining responsibility and would enjoy the benefits of a solar panel for a limited period. If you occupy a floor apartment, you can choose to get a shared power with other housemates.

With facilities like solar financing, the government is providing more and more people with the opportunity to invest in solar power systems. The perks of having a solar power system at your home exceed far more than its cost.

However, the first step to any smart purchase is to prepare a blueprint for your requirements, cost, and expenses, before exploring options to purchase.