You are excited to add solar panels to your home, but there are a few things you should know before you get started. Adding solar involves a rooftop installation, electrical integration with your home, and a system that meets your needs. Working with your solar installer, you can dive into the assessments, solar panel system planning, and project prep that you’ll need before your solar installation.
Home Assessment for Solar Readiness
The first step is to schedule a home assessment to determine your solar readiness.
- Do you have a roof facing the right direction with access to clear sun? If so, is sturdy and ready for the solar panel mounting system? If not, explore alternative installation options on the sunniest area of your property.
- Is your household electrical panel and wiring system ready for solar integration? If not, what upgrades will you need to make it solar-ready?
Household Power Load
Determine how much power your home consumes on average daily, monthly, and annually. Examine changes based on the season and weather. This will help to inform your further decisions when planning your solar panel system. Check your historic power bill statements to reveal your home’s typical use of kwH electricity.
Solar Size and Storage to Achieve Your Goals
Set your solar goals and determine the number of solar panels you will need to meet them. How much power do you want to generate, and do you want to store extra power for cloudy days or power outages? Work with your solar installer to find the right balance between power generation, price, and what your roof/electrical system can support.
Available Solar Rebates and Incentives
Check for solar, sustainability, and clean energy incentives in your region that can reduce the cost of your solar installation. There is a federal tax rebate, many states have their own solar incentive programs, and some power utility companies even offer incentives. Discover your full scope of available discounts and benefits for installing solar.
Necessary Permits and Licensing
Ask your solar installers about the permits and licenses necessary for your planned solar panel system installation. Installers usually take care of this step, but it can determine the delay between planning and installation to see these permits approved before work can begin.
Total Cost and Installation Time
Once everything is ready, determine the total up-front cost, rebate-reduced cost, and financing options for your solar panel installation. When your financials are ready, build a schedule to determine when the installation and activation will take place. Don’t forget that you will need to book one final inspection and utility company approval before you’re ready to fully connect and begin soaking up the sun. This can add a slight and not entirely predictable delay at the very end.
Get Ready for Solar with Solar Optimum
If you are considering a solar panel installation on your home, get started by exploring your local options through Solar Optimum. Our goal is to make solar accessible to homeowners across the country and connect you with the providers you need to see your sustainable energy dreams realized with the best quality service and cost. Contact us to get started.
