Should I Use Solar Power For My Home?

Energy Consumption

Before you even consider using solar power, you should really assess your household’s energy needs and usage patterns to determine if your house would really benefit from solar power. For example, if your house is mostly unoccupied during the day when everyone is at work or school, then it might be rather pointless to install an expensive solar power system when the potential savings are miniscule.

Roof Condition and Space

You should engage a professional to verify if your roof is structurally sound to be able to support the weight of the solar panels. Nobody likes to be surprised by extra costs that was not clearly stated before the project begins. Think about how much power you need the solar panels to generate as well as consider the future too, as you might inclined to add more panels later on.

Budget and Financing Options

Determine if you have the financial resources for the upfront costs. Look into financing options like loans, leases, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Be prepared to spend some time to properly investigate if there is any available government incentives that would help you to reduce costs.

Local Climate and Property Location

Consider how much sunlight your home receives throughout the year. Homes in sunnier climates will obviously benefit more from solar energy but do not simply make assumptions. For example, peak sunlight might not be able to reach your property if your home is surrounded by high-rise buildings and lots of trees. Your solar energy consultant should be able to advise you if your home would really benefit from using a solar power system.

Grid Connection

Decide if you want to remain connected to the grid or install an off-grid system. In most typical cases, solar systems are usually grid-tied, which allows you to use electricity from the grid when needed and sell excess energy back. If this is the case, make sure you find out in detail how the solar plan works. You should also make sure the installation of solar panels adhere to local regulations.

Battery Storage

Consider whether you want to include a battery storage system to store excess energy for use during cloudy days or at night. Any extra equipment will likely require periodic maintenance and this will add to the cost of the solar power system.

Warranty and Maintenance

Find out in detail what are the warranties on the panels and inverters. It is often 20–25 years for panels and 5–10 years for inverters but do not assume this is standardized. Make sure you fully understand what are the costs associated with maintaining the system. For example, the solar panels will still require periodic cleaning and inspection even if the system is working fine.

Long Term Value

Consider how long you plan to stay in your home as solar systems may take several years and up to a decade to recoup their cost in energy savings. Even if you plan to remain in the same home for the rest of your life, you still must be realistic in your plans. For example, think about what potential developments in your neighborhood that could force you to move to another location in the near future.