Posted: 4/6/2010 10:15:05 AM EDT
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I am considering having solar power panels and inverter installed on my house. If anyone here has much experience with this I'm open to hearing pros and cons on doing it or how to do it or which whom.
Thanks. Oh, I gotta run errands and won't be back to read this for couple hours. |
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I'd do it in a heartbeat. My only gripe is expense.
I can't afford it. There is a high initial cost, and then over 10 + years it pays for itself. You can actually end up selling energy back to your power company, but at a much lower price than you buy it. Make sure they're reputable. I've heard horror stories for roof problems. |
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Thanks. I admit the roof issue is a biggie. I have a flat roof with the foam. That doesn't last forever and I'm not certain how they work through it and with the panels up there.
I could put the panels on the land but it would be next to the road and I think I would be annoyed if a neighbor did it so perhaps I shouldn't do it either 
On expense I think I could get a home equity loan to cover my share with payments probably equal to about what I would save each month in electric so it would be close to a wash. Seems like you nailed my concerns. Now I need to hear from someone who did it and was happy. 
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Well, if it drops your electric bill more than your finance bill it would be worth it imho.
Here is a link to SRP explaining the costs. http://www.srpnet.com/environment/earthwise/solar/default.aspx#power While it may take many years to pay off, it still is saving you money every month, lowering your bills. Ive thoguht about gettign them, but my roof faces north and south, limiting the exposure to the sun. |
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Quoted:
Well, if it drops your electric bill more than your finance bill it would be worth it imho. Here is a link to SRP explaining the costs. http://www.srpnet.com/environment/earthwise/solar/default.aspx#power While it may take many years to pay off, it still is saving you money every month, lowering your bills. Ive thoguht about gettign them, but my roof faces north and south, limiting the exposure to the sun. N/S facing roof is perfect..... put the panels on the s-facing side and they get sun as long as it's up....almost. |
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Thanks. The links help. I am an APS customer and found an article that worries. They currently offer a $3 a watt incentive but the money is runing out and they asked to reduce this to 42.15 retroactive to March 31. Yikes.
Keep it coming. Especially any personal experience. |
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You should do some research on different types of panels. There are so many different types, and so many companies coming up with new ideas.
Home depot will have a do it yourself supply shortly as well. http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/05/roofing-company/ http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-10453303-54.html http://www.solarexpert.com/pvbasics2.html http://www.industryweek.com/articles/new_low_cost_solar_panels_ready_for_mass_production_14932.aspx I think your really on the verge of an explosion in technology and cost. |