Posted: 12/10/2011 7:53:22 PM EDT
I am sure this has not been done before.
I have a 1K sq ft ranch style house with a S. facing roof. Ok, it does have a N. facing one as well, but not really part of the equation. I have not measured the sq ft of the roof yet, but figure about 500 sq ft. I am looking at getting solar but the main issue is I am not "planning" to stay in this home for longer then three years. I know a good electrican who would work with me on installation but there are a few companies who are selling right now. I was looking for some input. While I know it wont pay off in three years, plans change. And having a solar array would bump the house value right? The ones I am looking at are solar city, which is a zero down just start making payments solar company. http://www.solarcity.com/ Then you have this company where I would end up paying out of pocket. http://www.densolar.com/Specials.html But after a quick google search I find that I can purchase a similar system for 14K out of pocket then just file the paperwork myself lowering my costs. But I would have to put it on the roof. http://www.vanguardsolartechnologies.com/catalog/item/7700642/8182267.htm What say the hive? I also just got a notice in the mail from the energy company stating that my rates are going up. So that fuels the fire a bit.
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I agree with both assessments above.
I lived in a solar- and wind-powered house for a year when I moved to NM. The house was 12 miles from the grid, so solar & wind power were the only options. It had a fairly small solar power grid, aided by a wind generator and 8 large golf cart batteries. I had TV, no electrical cooking, and radio, etc. I could run a (small) washing machine 3x a day when batteries were fully charged. The dryer was electric, with propane heat; I usually hung the clothes outside to dry. I lived alone. Pics available upon request. |
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What do you want to accomplish? Save polar bears and reduce your electrical bill? The least programs like the ones you linked to can, but probably wont.
If you want power when nobody else does, your not going to get it with a lease program. The equipment installed when you "want solar" vs when you "want power from solar day and night" is totally different. Off grid is way more expensive, and not an option with the lease programs. |