Are Solar Cells Really That Great Of An Investment If You Have A Whole Roof Of Them?
Dec 25, 2009 in
diy
I’m trying to choose whether to use solar cells as a primary means of electricity in my house. Is it a excellent investment or not. This area gets bounty of sun and the electric prices are going up. So can anyone help out?
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6 comments
ruebus on December 25, 2009 at 9:16 am
free energy, but costly at initial complex.
you may never harness enough for your whole house but should get enought to run a hot water heater.
mel on December 25, 2009 at 9:18 am
Initial cost is high ($25K). You need to consider also the battery system maintenance and future battery recycling.
Handyman on December 25, 2009 at 9:21 am
i hear they are fantastic, especially for retiring americans who go live in inner america(the buck goes farther) but need reliable electricity besides a generator
LostInNetSpace..start up the FTL on December 25, 2009 at 9:22 am
For household use, they are best for heating water and the house itself. Cells that generate electricity are VERY expensive and are much more fragile. Be sure to only do the south facing part of your roof, or raise the panels so they are south facing (unless you live south of the equator, then reverse this). The other come forth is where you live. If you are further north, you will lose a lot of their utility in the winter when the days are shorter. If you are in the deep south, it might be more useful.
FunnyGuy on December 25, 2009 at 9:33 am
depending on the state you live in is a huge factor. Calif for example will rebate you 2800 for every kilo watt your system is rated. a 10KW system would make a $28,000 rebate. i am preparing to do it. factor in contemporary utility prices it should pay for itself in 8-10 yrs. then it is not only zero cost, but they will pay you for the excess your system generates ( if it’s a grid tied system). grid tied is cheaper and can be profitable.
But why is the rum always gone? on December 25, 2009 at 9:57 am
At present prices for a solar installation, you will only get a return on investment after 7-12 years. So, only do it if you intend to stay in that house longer than that, because a house buyer will not necessarily pay for what you did.