5 Comments

1. 

   to much. The problem is the Ca Socialist say if u get one. all energy u dont use PGE gets and then sells to others to make a profit and u get 0 from them. once u connect to grid u are not allowed to turn off unless u are worthy at then end of a lengthy release and must remove all panels. To let u produce your own energy would release u from their control. u might actually want to be a free individual and they cant have that.
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   Comment by whatwhowhenwhy? — @

2. 

   If the general body of taxpayers were not paying a subsidy to homeowners installing solar power, almost no one would consider such a project. Especially in California.
   References :
   Experience

   Comment by roy j — @

3. 

   It is hard to say. It really depends on the size of your house and how much electricity you use. This site, http://www.altestore.com, has stories about people that have installed solar on their home and all kinds of load calculators. After you calculate exactly what you’ll need, you’ll be able to decide if it is worth it to you or not. Good luck!!
   References :
   http://www.altestore.com

   Comment by Danielle — @

4. 

   It will depend on a variety of things. Since you live in CA you should get a great rebate through your utility. The size of system will depend on your location, any shade, roof orientation and usage. I can tell you a little about my system.

   I have a 2000sf tri level home in No. CA, I got a 3.74 kwdc system which cost $26K, I got a $10K rebate and a $2K fed tax credit (would have been $7800 if I waited till this year). I am generating about 90% of my summer energy and 75% of my winter energy (shorter days, less light). It took my summer bill from around $250 to under $20. I should break even no later than 6 years, most likely sooner with the rate increases they are proposing.

   There are programs in some areas that lease panels, but I advise you get a no cost no obligation quote from a licensed contractor. They should be able to advise a system that is right for you, let you know about local rebates, net metering (buying back excess energy) etc.
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   Comment by whsgreenmom — @

5. 

   It depends on where you live in California, and how much energy you typically use. Heavy electric users generally get the most financial benefit, because they displace the expensive electricity in the high rate tiers. People who use very little electricity will have a hard time getting their money back.

   Solar hot water pays back in a few years, if you’re in a warm location.

   The only way to get an accurate price is to ask an installer to analyze your home and bid on a system. But for reference, we have a 2.97 kW array, and it cost $12k net after rebates. My neighbor’s brother got 4.0 kW for $12k net.

   A solar water heater runs about $3-4k net, unless you live way down in the Palm desert, then it might be cheaper because it will be a really small system and never freeze.
   References :

   Comment by roderick_young — @

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