Solar energy is a great way to power your home or business. This renewable resource is becoming more popular, and there are a variety of different ways to go about installing it. One popular way is through net energy metering, which lets you offset your entire bill from generating your own energy. Any energy that is left over is credited to your bill and can be used on your next bill.
Cost
Whether you’re looking for a residential solar system or a commercial one, the cost can vary. The average residential solar system costs between $23,000 and $35,000 and can save you between $30 and $58,000 per year on your energy bills. With incentives, you can get 26% or more of your system’s cost back. You can also expect to save between $7,000 and $30,000 over 30 years, depending on your electric consumption and system size.
In addition to installing solar panels, the cost of solar installation and service may include taxes and permit fees. However, as solar adoption grows, these costs are reducing. A study published in the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that the price of installed solar energy systems fell by between 13% and 18% per year. However, it’s important to find out the exact price before committing to a solar installation. The best way to determine the cost is to talk with a solar professional in your area.
Another cost to consider is interconnection. This process connects your solar array to your local power grid. Interconnection is important because local utility companies may have specific requirements. Some of these requirements may include upgrading transformers or installing a new meter. Interconnection costs depend on the size of your solar array, the type of system, and the age of existing equipment.
Installation
Before you can get solar panels installed on your roof, you need to get the necessary permits. Also, you should check with your homeowner’s association to see if there are any restrictions. Some states have “solar rights provisions” that can restrict the installation of solar power systems. These laws vary from state to state, so you need to be sure to check. Once you get the necessary permits, the installer will order equipment and get to work.
Ensure that you choose a licensed installer for the installation. The installer should have the right business license and insurance. Also, ensure that he has experience installing solar products. You can find this out by asking for references from other solar homeowners. Be sure that you understand what additional charges will apply if you have to pay for the installation.
Next, the installer will prepare the roof, ensuring that roof tiles are secured. He will also place the wiring needed to connect the solar system to your electrical system. Once that is done, the installer will place the racking that holds the solar panels. The panels are then connected to the inverter.
Maintenance
A solar energy service provider can provide you with a variety of services. For example, they can clean your panels if they accumulate a thick layer of dust or bird droppings. They can also perform repairs. In addition, a solar service provider will monitor the electrical components of your system and keep them in tip-top shape.
Some solar service providers offer a maintenance package that includes an annual inspection. They also provide you with an online app to monitor the health of your solar power system. Some even offer a physical monitoring system, enabling them to keep an eye on your installation and spot problems before they become costly. They can also offer discounts on system upgrades.
Another service you can look into is the installer’s warranty policy. Manufacturers often provide warranties for solar panels and inverters, and these warranties are transferable to you when the installation is complete. In addition, some solar contractors offer a five-year warranty, which protects you from problems related to electric components or workmanship. Some warranties will cover replacement costs alone, while others cover all expenses related to a manufacturing defect.
Cost Of Service
If your solar panels are damaged or need repair, the cost of solar panels repair will vary depending on the issue. Damaged solar panels can lead to decreased performance, electrical shorts and even house fires. This makes it crucial to get them fixed by professionals as soon as possible. The chart below highlights the most common problems and the average cost of fixing them.
Typically, solar panel maintenance is done by the solar company. This includes routine cleaning, repair, and replacement. The cost varies by company and type of system, but it is usually between $150 and $330 for a 10-panel system with two kW. A 20-panel, 3kW system can cost as much as $500 or $750. Some solar panel cleaning companies charge per unit, so you can expect to pay $15 to $35 per unit. However, if damage is extensive, you may find that it is more cost-effective to replace the system.
The cost of solar panels depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of electricity your home uses per month. For example, a home with a lot of gas appliances will use less electricity than a home that uses mostly electric appliances. The cost of solar panels also depends on your location and the amount of sunshine that hits the roof. Some solar companies use monocrystalline panels, which are more efficient than polycrystalline ones.
