PV Gap

Kathryn Said:

does anyone know about solar energy?

We Answered:

I have a 2000sf multi level home and just added a solar array. I live in an area with great rebates so my utility paid $10K while I paid $16K. My home was not built to be energy efficient, so if you are building from scratch you can make a home that will use less energy.

I can't think of any con, because I'm still tied to the grid, so I have a back up system. I also didn't try to zero out my bill. My bill this summer was $20, but will be a little higher in the winter months because of fewer hours of daylight. If you are planning on being off the grid you will need to have a battery back up system which has additional costs, but you may also be able to add wind to supplement.

I think the best way to get a realistic idea of what you will need is to get a licensed contractor to go to the site and tell you what they recommend and give you a bid. Your lifestyle and how you build your home will dictate what size system will work for you.