Home Solar Power

My focus is mainly on gird connect systems. This is because storage batteries add a lot of extra cost to the system and you wont get the benefit of any new net metering, feed-in or green tag pricing policies the power utilities will probably introduce, in the next few years.

There are essentially three types of system you can think about. These are.
1. Full power Replacement.
2. Partial Power Replacement
3. Modular Solar Generator

Ideally you may want to replace all the energy you need with a roof top solar power station. This will mean you will need to by a larger generator which will require a greater initial cost.

Another way to think about it these systems cost about the same as a good family car, but they are going to save you money or even make you money over time.

When was the last time you saved money buying a car? Postponing your new car purchase for a couple of years could make good financial sense.

Depending on the rebates you get, borrowing to replace your entire energy supply the may not give you utility savings in the first year or two.

It may be a better strategy to, replace your household appliances with energy efficient appliances and select a smaller home solar power station initially.

With rebates, on smaller systems, you can usually make utility savings in the first year, and you don't have pay as much for system.
Modular Solar Generators are great for the partial replacement approach. This is because the are stand alone device that connects to the grid and can sit in your yard. They are also transportable. You need to make sure that they will get good sunshine.

For roof mounted systems, if you ask your installer to leaving mounting points for future Solar Panels, you can take advantage cheaper and more efficient panels that will probably be produced over time.

Your solar power company or professional should be able to advise you on the best system for you.

Ok , so having figured out what kind of home solar power system you want and how you are going to finance it. See Above Links for more info.

You may want buy you system and have it installed from the same company or you may want to buy your systems elsewhere and hire a local installer to install if for you.

Either way the professionals and companies you engage must cover the following important steps.

Step 1. Review your power needs and size your systems for the power savings. This may mean you may buy a smaller system to offset part of of your energy cost may lead to quicker saving or payback.

Step 2. Obtain the necessary building permits (if required) to have your solar home power system installed.

Step 3. Set up a net metering interconnection contract with your utility company so you get a credit for the power you produce. You may also be eligible for Green-Tags or you may need a lease agreement if you have financed that way.

Step 4. After the work is completed you will need a building inspection by the authority that issued the building permit.

Step 5. You will need an inspection from you utility company to certify the equipment for you net metering agreement.

Step 6. Finalize payment to you suppliers,make sure you have your warranty and include you new system on your homeowners insurance if you can or take out separate insurance.