1. Is your location solar energy friendly?
The first thing to consider when choosing a solar system is your location. Depending on the climate, solar energy production can vary greatly. If you live in a sunny area, such as the Southwest, you’ll be able to take advantage of longer hours of direct sunlight and more efficient solar energy production. On the other hand, if you live in a more temperate climate, you’ll need to take into account shorter hours of sunlight and adjust your solar system accordingly.
2. Solar System Size
The size and type of solar system you need will depend on your energy needs and goals. In the US, it can vary greatly depending on the size of your home and your energy needs. Generally, a typical residential solar system in the US is anywhere from 3.5kw to 8kw, with larger systems potentially reaching up to 20kw.
If you’re looking to simply offset your energy consumption, a smaller system may be sufficient. However, if you want to completely power your home or business, a larger system may be just the thing for you. It’s also important to look at the type of solar system you need. If you’re looking for a cost effective solution, you may want to consider a rooftop system. On the other hand, if you are more ambitious, a ground mount system is your go to, as it is a more energy efficient system.
You’ll also want to determine whether you’ll need a battery backup system in case of power outages, as well as a reliable installer. Finally, you should check if you qualify for any state or federal solar energy incentives. This takes us to the next point.
3. Solar Incentives
In the United States, there are a number of incentives available to help you switch to solar energy for your home. It is important to understand that solar incentives vary by state and local government. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for tax credits, rebates, and other incentives that can help to offset the cost of the system and make solar power more affordable.
In addition to these incentives, you may also be able to take advantage of net metering, which allows you to sell excess energy back to the utility grid. What is more, many states offer solar leasing programs that allow you to lease solar panels rather than