There has been a trend in the residential solar industry to treat solar as if it were a commodity. All solar is not the same. Every home is unique. What may be perfect for one home and one family will not be the best solution for the house next door. Be suspect of anyone who offers pricing before they’ve visited your home. Be suspect of a company that sells solar, but doesn’t install it themselves. What would you think of someone who gave you pricing for a kitchen remodel without ever setting foot in your kitchen?

How to Shop for Solar

Solar is a home improvement that affects your roof, your home electrical system, and the aesthetics of your home — not just your future electric costs. Make sure you choose a contractor who’s experienced, and who isn’t using the cheapest roof attachments, wire management, etc. Make sure you’re only considering options that will work with your actual site conditions. And to make sure your solar is sized properly, you’ll want to work with a consultant who understands how to estimate your future electric usage, and your future solar production. Finally, pay attention to the aesthetics of your solar system design, so that you’re not embarrassed to show it off to your neighbors.

Here are just some variables an experienced solar contractor will consider in the design and pricing of your solar system:

1. Roof:  material, age, condition, dimensions, orientation, pitch, location of vents, spacing of rafters, shading, etc.
2. Main electric panel:  location, brand, amperage of busbar, amperage of main breaker, available breaker space, compatibility with SDG&E’s renewable meter adapter, etc.
3. Electric usage:  historical monthly usage, daily usage patterns, opportunities for energy savings, expected increases or decreases in future electric usage, etc.
4. Aesthetics:  is the solar layout based on actual roof and shading conditions?  will there be gaps left in the solar array for vents?  will the solar panels line up?  will the conduit be hidden in the attic?  will any exposed conduit be painted to blend in?  where will the inverter (or combiner box) be located?

Don’t be fooled into thinking that all solar contractors are the same — they’re not! Would you like to speak with a qualified solar professional who can explain the logic behind their equipment choices, and the reasoning behind the solar system size and design? An established San Diego solar contractor who offers quality materials and workmanship at a fair price? Then contact San Diego County Solar for a free consultation.

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Mandatory solar is part of the California Energy Commission’s (CEC) Title 24 rules, along with more stringent energy efficiency standards. The efficiency and the solar together are intended to reduce the home’s electricity use to zero kWh annually!

These new rules do not address the existing housing stock. Because existing homes are generally not as efficient as new construction, the economic payback for solar can be much higher for existing homes. Those who currently own their own home can capture the full 30% solar tax credit if they go solar in 2018 or 2019. And even if they finance their system purchase, their loan payments will generally be less than their utility savings.

It’s Official. All New California Homes Must Incorporate Solar

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Common residential solar modules are about 3-1/2’ x 5-1/2’ in size.  While size is similar for most solar modules, power output can vary widely.  If space is limited, a solar power system may need to be designed with the most powerful (expensive) solar modules available.  If there is plenty of space, you may be able to meet your needs with less expensive modules.

Common space limitations include:

• Necessary pathways for emergency personnel, as required by your local planning department.
• Vents, skylights and other obstructions
• Shading
• Rafter location

A professional site assessment includes accurate shade analysis as well.  Most solar modules stop working with only a small amount of shade present.  It’s important for the solar power system designer to have accurate information for determining solar panel location, equipment selection and plans for stringing the modules together for optimum performance.

A professional site assessment also includes an inspection of your existing electric service panel.  The National Electric Code and local building departments provide regulations for connecting solar power systems. A qualified professional with local knowledge can determine your best options for connecting a solar power system that meets your needs.

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