PV Gap

Ricky Said:

I want to set up an off grid power system for my house?

We Answered:

use wind if you have the site for it, it will be very efficent and practical.... total economic payback time will be 2-4 years. anywhere between $1000-$20000
Solar will be a lot more costly with a total economic payback time of about 20-25 years, a total system will cost minimum $15000 and up to 50k depending how much you need.
Look into evacuated tubes for solar hot water systems.
http://www.solarlord.com.au
Good evacuated tube company.
They look better and are much more efficent and work good in cold and cloudy weather.
These are best systems to heat your hot water which is largest energy consumer in the home. Also these do heating, I would have a look at getting hydronic heating under the slabs as this is most efficent way to evenly heat your house and you can set up solar evacuated tube heating systems very cheap.
Hope this helps.

Jeanne Said:

Solar power system for my house?

We Answered:

If you're seriously considering it I found that the best place to start is http://www.globalsolarcenter.com/

They can provide you with a free solar quote, with all the information you need such as net cost (cost after tax credits and rebates are deducted), estimated payback period for the system, and annual energy bill savings resulting from the system. They are a great source of information and will be able to give you a clear perspective on potentially going solar.

Armando Said:

Why is solar power system is so expensive?

We Answered:

Check with your municipality to see if there are rebates for going solar. Some do, most do not. Check your state's department of revenue to see if it can be claimed on your income tax.

The system is made of an array of silicon waifers. These are tested, then wired together to make the collector. It is currently very labor intensive, and the parts are produced in small batches. All new technologies are expensive at first, but when they catch on, the price drops. It will just take a litte time yet.