Thinking About Installing Solar Residential Panels?
- By Bud Greenlee
- Published 12/27/2011
- Home Management
- Unrated
Ever think that you should install residential solar panels? Lots of people have been thinking that very same thought, - and millions have already gone and done it!
And some never got started because there were so many unknown factors it was just easier to do nothing. That doesn't have to happen to you.
Answer these five questions if you're planning to build and/or install a solar energy system on your home. It'll help you find out if a home solar power system makes sense for you.
First, how long are you considering living in your home?
This is important because your home solar panels aren't portable. They stay with the home. So, you should plan on being in your present home for a long enough time to get back what you've invested into your home solar power system.
Sure, I understand that home solar power systems have been expensive to install.
Fortunately that's changing rapidly – and in the right direction. Advances in solar technology have driven residential solar component prices down significantly, while increasing solar cell efficiency.
And for those living in the U.S, the federal and state tax credits and utility incentives play a big role in payback calculations. If you live elsewhere in the world, make sure that you check out the credits and incentives available in your area.
Today, the actual payback on your net investment after credits and rebates is less than five years in a majority of residential solar power systems.
Second, does your home have a large enough roof area to install the solar panels?
Solar panels should get at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. And you sure don't want to place them on an area of your roof that's shaded by a lot of trees. If you block the sun's rays from reaching even some of your panels, you'll receive just a fraction of the available energy.
Third, are you planning to install your solar energy system yourself, or hire a contractor?
This is relevant for two reasons:
If you're going to hire a contractor, make sure that that you find a reputable company. And, if you do, know that it'll cost more to have the work done for you. So, you'll definitely want to take time to look at your situation when you make this decision.
Fourth, is helping maintain a healthy global environment important to you?
You don’t have to be an expert to know that the Earth is under significant stress.
You can help by reducing your carbon footprint. One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy consumption – and your carbon footprint - is by installing home solar panels.
And fifth, is independence from the power grid a consideration?
Whether you want to power your home or your cabin in the mountains or desert, your photovoltaic system can allow you to be completely independent of the power grid.
While no course of action is right for everybody, I believe there's a real good chance you'll come to the conclusion that a very compelling case can be made for investing in a solar power system for your home.
Think about it and do some research. Learn all you can about building solar residential panels. By considering all these things you'll make the best decision and get the most bang for your energy buck.
And some never got started because there were so many unknown factors it was just easier to do nothing. That doesn't have to happen to you.
Answer these five questions if you're planning to build and/or install a solar energy system on your home. It'll help you find out if a home solar power system makes sense for you.
First, how long are you considering living in your home?
This is important because your home solar panels aren't portable. They stay with the home. So, you should plan on being in your present home for a long enough time to get back what you've invested into your home solar power system.
Sure, I understand that home solar power systems have been expensive to install.
Fortunately that's changing rapidly – and in the right direction. Advances in solar technology have driven residential solar component prices down significantly, while increasing solar cell efficiency.
And for those living in the U.S, the federal and state tax credits and utility incentives play a big role in payback calculations. If you live elsewhere in the world, make sure that you check out the credits and incentives available in your area.
Today, the actual payback on your net investment after credits and rebates is less than five years in a majority of residential solar power systems.
Second, does your home have a large enough roof area to install the solar panels?
Solar panels should get at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. And you sure don't want to place them on an area of your roof that's shaded by a lot of trees. If you block the sun's rays from reaching even some of your panels, you'll receive just a fraction of the available energy.
Third, are you planning to install your solar energy system yourself, or hire a contractor?
This is relevant for two reasons:
If you're going to hire a contractor, make sure that that you find a reputable company. And, if you do, know that it'll cost more to have the work done for you. So, you'll definitely want to take time to look at your situation when you make this decision.
Fourth, is helping maintain a healthy global environment important to you?
You don’t have to be an expert to know that the Earth is under significant stress.
You can help by reducing your carbon footprint. One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy consumption – and your carbon footprint - is by installing home solar panels.
And fifth, is independence from the power grid a consideration?
Whether you want to power your home or your cabin in the mountains or desert, your photovoltaic system can allow you to be completely independent of the power grid.
While no course of action is right for everybody, I believe there's a real good chance you'll come to the conclusion that a very compelling case can be made for investing in a solar power system for your home.
Think about it and do some research. Learn all you can about building solar residential panels. By considering all these things you'll make the best decision and get the most bang for your energy buck.
Bud Greenlee
Bud Greenlee is a long time solar power advocate and maintains the website, Easy Solar Panel Plans. Read his candid review of DIY solar panel guides. You're invited to learn the 'Inside Scoop' on building and installing home solar panels. Simply sign up for the 100% Free "Solar Power 101" Mini-Course. Go Green - Save Green!
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