PV Gap

Marc Said:

how much does it cost to operate a solar panel?

We Answered:

Photovoltaic panels have almost zero recurring operating cost. Once installed, they are good for the next 20-25 years, typically. The exceptions are if the panels are not tilted, then you need to pay someone a few times a year to go up there with a mop to clean them. Otherwise, rain and morning dew make the dirt slide off automatically.

The cost for your system will depend on the power needs of your school. It also depends on your location. As a government entity, a school is not eligible for the current 30% federal incentive, but may be for state incentives, depending on where you live.

Anyway, once you size your system, which will be large, figure on $7 / watt cost for a large system. This would be less if you live in a state with good incentives. So for example, if you needed a 100 kW system, the price would be $700,000. $100,000 of that money is to replace the inverters that break after 15 years, so you would be paying $600,000 up front.