Solar energy comes from the sun. The sunlight, which is composed of energy-bearing particles known as “photons,” can be converted into electricity using solar panels, commonly referred to as “PV panels,” and used to power electrical loads. In addition to generating energy for household and commercial solar electric systems, solar panels can also be utilised for remote power systems for cabins, telecommunications equipment, remote sensing, and other purposes. More recently, solar for tenants is getting popular as renewable energy sources are being stressed.
If you’re considering switching to a green energy source as landlord solar, solar panels are a fantastic solution. And in that case, the first thing you need to check is the solar panel. Depending on your property type and location, you can understand the kind and quality of the solar panel needed.
Do you have any plans of installing solar panels?
If you want to lower your carbon footprint, raise the value of your property, or save money on your electricity bill, going solar is the way to go. However, there are a few things to think about before having solar panels installed at your home or place of business, even though it is a financially advantageous solution!
The following elements can help you determine your energy generation and potential savings before searching for the finest solar panel businesses in your area.
Can you install a solar panel on the roof?
One of the best qualities of solar panels is their long lifespan. It is advised that you fix your roof before replacing it if it needs work within the next three years. This method of taking a system apart and reinstalling it won’t cost you anything more. Your roof must be able to support the weight of the solar panel system. You can find out if your roof needs additional support by hiring a solar specialist to inspect it.
Is the shape and type of your roof alright?
To determine whether your roof is suitable for solar, an on-site inspection is advised. Since it is quite simple, a typical gable roof is the greatest place to install solar panels. Solar panels, however, can be mounted on a number of roof types. During your site inspection, the installers will take the type, shape, material, pitch, and orientation of the roof into account.
Due to their composition, some roof materials sustain solar panels better than others:
The simplest material for solar panel installation is metal (standing seam, tin, and corrugated), as it does not require roof penetration.
Composition shingles make solar installation simple due to their longevity.
The material used to make tile roofs varies. Concrete tile often performs better than clay tile because it is less likely to crack and break.
What if I change my residence often?
As solar panel installation is a costly affair, it is better to do it where you are sure of your permanence. If you will be shifting from your place, it is better to install it where you will be staying. The typical person does not remain in one place for longer than 20 years. Contact your solar company to learn what documentation is necessary to transfer a solar warranty to the buyer.
Which direction does your roof slope face?
If your roof is not facing the sun, your panels won’t produce as much electricity as they could. To get the most out of your system, your solar panels must face south. The west direction of your roof may also be sufficient, depending on the pitch. On roofs with an east or north orientation, solar panels can occasionally generate power.
How energy effective is your house?
If your home has an old HVAC system, insufficient insulation, or poorly sealed windows and doors, it can be more cost-effective to make energy efficiency upgrades before installing solar panels. By initially reducing your energy use, you may be able to install a smaller system with fewer panels and improve your overall payback.
The following are the additional cost factors you need into take into account –
- How much energy you consume: The more energy you consume now, the more money you’ll save and the quicker a solar system will pay for itself.
- Will your energy consumption increase or decrease in the future? Your power consumption will increase if you plan to create a pool, get an electric vehicle, grow your family, etc.
How do you get into connection with the grid?
Logistics should be taken into account while connecting a dispersed energy generation system to the grid. Make sure to have the following inquiries to your installer and your utility provider:
- How much time will it take to finish the task?
- Am I obligated to pay any fees?
- How will I be compensated for the electricity generated?
- How long will it take for me to get credit for the electricity I generated?
What type of solar panels should you purchase?
Photovoltaic and thermal solar technologies are the two most popular types. Thermal uses sunlight to heat water or air for domestic use, whereas photovoltaic uses arrays of cells to transform sunlight into electricity. If your home uses a lot of energy or if you live somewhere where heating fuel is expensive compared to electricity, a solar thermal investment may be a sensible and practical choice.
Dealing with natural calamities
It is hard to forecast natural disasters like lightning storms, hurricanes, hail, and other similar occurrences. In such situations, there can be chances of destruction in the solar power equipment. It is important to keep this in mind even though some insurance policies would cover such calamities, especially if you reside in an area where severe weather is frequent.
What does solar energy cost?
Numerous factors, such as the size of your system, your energy use, and the net metering policies of your utility provider, affect your overall solar cost. The good news is that the total cost may be greatly reduced thanks to solar subsidies and other federal, state, and local incentives. You must speak with a solar expert to have your property subjected to a modified solar examination. Your upfront out-of-pocket costs and monthly payments are influenced by the size, design, and performance of your panels. Your solar panels will cost more the more effective they are. If your company purchases electricity but not solar panels, you can set up a PPA (power purchase agreement).
Solar panel installation is definitely a significant investment. Make sure the panels and equipment have a proven track record of high quality by making sure they have undergone extensive testing over time.