(Newswire.net — August 19, 2021) —
Experts estimate that almost 3 percent of buildings in America will be powered by solar by 2024. To put that into a more meaningful number, that’s well over 4 million individual solar electric system installations on homes and businesses.
Are you considering adding solar panels to your rooftop? Perhaps it’s the thought of energy independence that attracted you to solar. Or maybe you just hope to save a few bucks on your budget in the long run.
Whatever the reason, this step-by-step guide will help you figure out the system that’s right for you. So read on!
What Is Your Solar Potential?
If you want to switch to solar, the first step is to assess how much energy your location could provide. Solar panels can capture both scattered and direct sunlight, but numerous factors may limit their potential.
While every part of the US has good potential for solar home systems, some areas are better than others. Thankfully, Energy.gov has compiled a list of several handy tools to help you find out how your neighborhood stacks up.
Other things to consider are whether nearby trees shade your property now or will in the future, how old your roof is (get it fixed before installing solar if it’s due for maintenance, and any HOA regulations.
How Much Energy Do You Need?
If you want to install solar, you’ll need to assess your current usage and work out your future needs. This helps you determine how many panels and how much energy storage you’ll need in your system.
Assess Your Current Efficiency
The next step toward a solar technology-powered home is considering how much energy you use right now.
Conduct a home energy audit (or pay a professional to do it for you) to work out your energy pain points.
Try to reduce where you can before getting your panels. After all, sustainable homes naturally use less energy. This might mean upgrading to LED, purchasing more energy-efficient appliances, and weatherizing your home to withstand hot and cool periods better.
Define Your Ideal Energy Requirements
Your solar installer will ask for your current energy needs to help them recommend the most efficient system for your needs. Since you’ve already done a home energy audit, you’ll be able to pass that data onto them.
If you think the current figure might go up or down in the future, be sure to let them know your predicted energy needs, too.
Work With a Solar Electric System Installer
Finally, it’s time to dig into the research on local solar installers.
Interview each solar company you’re interested in working with. Ask them about their permitting knowledge and licenses, request references, and assess their warranty terms.
Don’t forget to ask them about their payment options. Solar leases, community solar programs, and loans can all make green homes more accessible for everyone.
Choose Sunny Side Up
As you’ve found out, there’s a lot of research to do before you even start chatting with solar installers. Follow these steps to ensure you invest in an efficient, affordable, and robust solar electric system. Plus, you can revel in the knowledge that you’re doing your bit to help the planet.
For more helpful homeowners tips, head back to our blog and read more articles.