Before you buy, is a solar installation right for you?

A solar installation is a big investment for any home or business. Before you buy, you need to be certain that a solar installation is right for you and will fit your power needs. Ask these questions before you invest in solar energy.

Is your site appropriate?

You’ll need to assess your site to make sure it’s ideal for solar installation. A trained solar installer can help you determine that your site has the qualities needed for generating solar power. Not only will the site and landscape need assessed, your roof will also need evaluated. In homes and businesses with aging roofs, it may be a good idea to invest in a new roof before having the solar installation started.

You should also consider the future of your site. If expansion is in the future, you’ll need to make sure your future plans won’t disrupt the functioning of the solar installation. If you anticipate using solar energy to power the expansion, you should also consider how to integrate the solar installation with the new addition now.

What size system do you need?

Oversizing or undersizing your new solar installation won’t help you use your funds efficiently. You’ll need to evaluate your home’s current electricity needs as well as account for changing needs in the future. If you’re not ready to switch completely to solar energy, size the system to accurately supplement your home or business’s electric utility usage. A skilled solar installer can be a huge help, and can work with you to determine the proper size for your solar installation.

Can you afford the cost?

Solar installations are expensive. Luckily, there are many programs which can help you cut that cost. Federal tax credits are available for homeowners who install solar systems at home, which can be good for up to 30 percent of the installation costs. Many states and utility companies offer programs which give rebates or credits which can further lower the cost to you. You may be eligible to receive a loan to help you pay upfront costs. Solar leases are another option that may be chosen which can eliminate upfront costs.