4 Easy Steps for Going Solar in 2023
By: Eric Huesca, SEO Content Writer
March 24, 2023
As the world faces the challenge of transitioning to sustainable energy sources, going solar has become a crucial solution. Solar energy is a renewable and clean power source with many benefits for the environment and society. By going solar, homeowners and businesses can generate their own electricity, reduce their carbon footprint, and lower their energy bills.
Are you thinking of installing the first solar at your place? Going solar seems to be a daunting task. In fact, with the advancements in technology and the availability of information and resources, going solar has become easier than ever before. Let’s discuss some ways to get started with the solar energy system.
Solgen Power employee working on solar panels.
Evaluate your Energy Needs
There’re several factors to consider when evaluating energy needs while going solar. Here are some steps you need to determine before going solar.
Determine your Current Energy Consumption
The first step before going solar is to understand how much energy your household or business currently uses. You can do this by reviewing your utility bills or using an online energy calculator. It will show you how much energy you need to generate from your solar panels.
Consider your Future Energy Needs
It’s important to consider your future energy needs when deciding how many solar panels you will need. If you plan to add new appliances or expand your working space, you will likely need more energy than you currently use. You should also consider any future changes in your lifestyle or work practices that may affect your energy usage.
Consider your Solar System Size
Once you have determined your energy consumption and peak energy usage, you can consider the solar system size required to meet your energy needs. For this purpose, you will need to consider the solar panels’ efficiency, the amount of sunlight in your area, and any shading that may affect the performance of the solar panels.
Evaluate your Location
Your location will significantly impact how much energy you can generate from solar panels. Factors such as the angle and direction of your roof, the amount of sunlight you receive, and the climate in your area will all affect your solar panel’s efficiency. You can consult a solar panel installation company to evaluate your location and determine the best solar panel system for your needs.
Determine your Budget
The size of your solar energy panel will depend on your budget. You should consider the upfront going solar cost of the system, as well as ongoing maintenance and operating costs. You may also need to consider financing options or government incentives that can help reduce the cost of installation.
Find a Reputable Installer
For going solar, consulting with a professional solar panel installation company is important. They can provide you with a detailed assessment of your energy needs and help you choose the ideal solar panel system for your home or business.
Moreover, they can also provide you with information on installation and maintenance costs and help you determine the most cost-effective solution for your energy needs. So, before investing in solar panels, you need to seek guidance from a reputable contractor company.
Research Online
Begin by doing a quick online search for solar installers in your area. Look for companies with websites that provide information about their services, experience, and certifications.
Check for Experience and Customer Reviews
Look for installers with a track record of successful installations and satisfied customers. Check their websites for testimonials and reviews, and look for third-party reviews on websites like Yelp or Google.
Get Recommendations
Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have had any experience with solar installers in your area. If they have, ask them about their experience and whether they would recommend the installer they used.
Check Licenses and Insurance
Make sure the solar installer you choose is licensed and insured in your state. This will protect you from any liability if something goes wrong during the installation process.
Ask for Quotes
Get quotes from at least three different solar installers so you can compare prices and services. Be sure to ask for a breakdown of the costs and what is included in the installation.
Check Warranties
Make sure the solar installer you choose offers warranties on their products and services. This will ensure that you are protected in case something goes wrong with your solar system.
Choose the Right Solar Panels
Choosing the right solar panels for your home or business requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s a more comprehensive look at what to consider when choosing solar panels
Efficiency
It refers to how much sunlight it can convert into usable electricity. Panels with higher efficiency ratings will produce more energy for your system, which can save you money in the long run. However, higher-efficiency panels are typically more expensive, so you’ll need to weigh the cost against the potential energy savings.
Durability
Solar panels are built to last for decades, so it’s important to choose panels that are built to withstand extreme weather conditions, like high winds and heavy snow loads. Look for panels with a strong warranty and a track record of reliability.
Cost
The cost of panels can vary widely depending on the brand, efficiency, and size of the panel. Be sure to compare prices from multiple suppliers and manufacturers to find the best deal for your needs. Keep in mind that the cheapest panels may not be the best choice, as they may not last as long or produce as much energy as more expensive options.
Type of Solar Panel
There are three main types of solar energy panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient and have a uniform look, but they are also the most expensive. Polycrystalline panels are a good balance of efficiency and cost, while thin-film panels are the least efficient but also the cheapest.
Brand Reputation
Look for solar panels from reputable brands with a proven track record of reliability and quality. You can research online or ask for recommendations from friends, family, or a trusted solar installer.
Compatibility
Make sure the solar panels you choose are compatible with your existing or planned solar system. Check the voltage, current, and other technical specifications to ensure the panels will work with your inverter and other equipment.
Explore Financing options
There are several financing options available for going solar, including cash purchases, loans, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and government incentives. It’s important to research and compares each option to find the one that ideally fits your needs and goals. Here is a brief overview of each option:
Cash Purchases
Cash purchases involve paying for the solar system upfront. While this may be the most expensive option, it also provides the greatest long-term solar savings. With a cash purchase, you own the solar system outright and are eligible for any government incentives or tax credits.
Loans
Loans are a popular financing option for going solar. With a solar loan, you borrow money to pay for the solar system and make monthly payments over a set term. Interest rates and loan terms vary, but solar loans usually have lower interest rates than credit cards or personal loans. With a loan, you own the solar system and are eligible for government incentives or tax credits.
Leases
Leases allow you to rent the solar system from a solar company. For example, you pay a fixed monthly fee, typically for a period of 20 to 25 years, and the concerned solar company owns and maintains the system. While leases may have lower upfront costs than other financing options, they may not provide as much long-term savings. Also, you may not be eligible for government incentives or tax credits with a lease.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
PPAs allow you to purchase solar power from a solar company at a fixed rate. You pay for the energy produced by the solar system rather than the system itself. PPAs typically have no upfront costs, but you may be required to sign a long-term contract with the solar company. Also, you may not be eligible for incentives or credits with a PPA.
Government Incentives
Tax credits and rebates can help offset the costs of going solar. These incentives vary by location and may include federal, state, and local programs. Check with your local government or a solar professional to learn about the incentives available in your area.
Compare Financing Options
Once you have a good understanding of going solar cost options, compare them to see which one best fits your needs and goals. Consider factors such as upfront costs, interest rates, monthly payments, and long-term savings.
Conclusion
In short, if you want to go solar, you need to consider some factors that affect the installation process. For instance, you need to determine your energy consumption, financing options, solar installation company, and other factors to choose the right solar system for your place.
So, if you are pondering, ‘should I go solar on my house?’ You must connect to professionals that give you expert advice before going solar. And you can get it from Solgen Power. We are one of the top-rated solar installation companies that provide and install solar for homeowners and businesses.
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Solgen Power is a solar energy contractor that sells and installs solar for homeowners. Solgen Power has been recognized by INC. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in the nation. Solgen Power has grown nationwide and continues to provide excellent customer service to homeowners.
