Residential Solar Considerations

With most residential solar systems being installed and electrically interconnected with your electric provider, your local electric cooperative should top your list of project contacts when considering such a purchase. Kansas’ electric cooperatives are well-versed in both the pros and cons of solar installations. They can help you make an informed decision and navigate the interconnection process (to connect your system to the electric grid). Your electric cooperative likely has a specific process by which planned solar arrays are approved prior to installation and inspected afterward.

For many homeowners, solar installations are considered an investment. As with any investment, you need a clear understanding of your final investment costs, the annual energy production to be expected along with its corresponding value, and the ability to determine how long it will take before you achieve a return on your investment.

Many solar installers provide quotes using national averages for energy prices to calculate your annual savings. These calculations can be wildly inaccurate as energy prices range considerably across the country. The assumption for increases in energy prices over the lifespan of your solar array can’t be ignored but is often calculated at a rate that is higher than that experienced over the last 15-30 years.

If you’re considering solar for your home, use the questions and considerations below to help guide your decision before entering a contract with a solar vendor.

Installing Solar

To successfully install solar, you must first overcome location obstacles. Choosing an unobstructed, sunny location to install solar panels on your property is important. The choice between a roof or ground-mounted system is also important. The cost for roof installations can vary with different roof designs, just as the location of a ground-mounted array can vary based on soil types and the distance an array is from the interconnection site.

Your home’s average energy use will be reflected in your bills from the previous year, and remember, certain factors may change your use over time. For instance, a growing family will use more energy, but the departure of college-age children would reduce energy consumption. Careful consideration and addressing the energy efficiency of your home may reduce the size of the solar array you will need. Many electric co-ops offer energy audits to help identify opportunities for savings.

Selecting a professional installer, the right system, and best payment method are equally crucial considerations. Solar installations may be purchased with cash, loans or leases. An upfront purchase will help you save the most money over the lifespan of the solar panels, but you need the cash upfront. A lease means someone else owns the solar panels and sells you power at a reduced cost each month, but you won’t save as much over time. With a loan, the system is yours, but you make monthly payments plus interest.

Solar system warranties are important. The solar panel and inverter manufacturer usually provides a guarantee of 20 to 25 years for the panels and 5 to 25 years for inverters. Moreover, installers may provide a labor warranty.

Installing solar is a major decision. You need a reputable energy partner to help you decide. Remember to contact your electric cooperative first. They’re ready to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision.

Jennah Denney writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.