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Solar Panel?

Discussion in 'Homeowners Corner' started by OSimpson, Dec 12, 2011.

  1. OSimpson

    OSimpson Certified Master Naturalist

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    We are looking for homeowners who has installed solar panels. Can you please share your experience and benefits of using solar panels with us.

    I would like to write an article about it since many people are not sure about it's benefits and return in investment.

    Thanks,
     
  2. sri_n

    sri_n Member

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    Was there any update to this? Just curious!!
     
  3. OSimpson

    OSimpson Certified Master Naturalist

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    Hi - no one replied but the funny thing is that we just got solar panels on our house last month. So let me know if you have any questions.
     
  4. fdhauffeur

    fdhauffeur New Member

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    Can you tell me how the process went with the HOA approval?
     
  5. OSimpson

    OSimpson Certified Master Naturalist

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    We provided required information on the type of panels and where it was going to be installed. Approval was given within 30 days without any issues.
     
  6. ubercloud

    ubercloud New Member

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    Who did you guys use to get them installed?
     
  7. blunoz

    blunoz Member

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    I would be interested to hear more about this. Did you get the type to help heating your home or for electricity generation? What were the expected benefits that lead you to have them installed, and have they met your expectations? Any regrets? Anything you wish you knew before you had them installed or that you would have done differently if you could do it over again?
     
  8. KTdid

    KTdid Well-Known Member

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    If you search 'Solar panels' you will find other related discussions.
     
  9. OSimpson

    OSimpson Certified Master Naturalist

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    Hi,
    We used Modern Mechanical for our HVAC / solar panels package installation. After long and hard comparisons, it came down to the fact that just putting up solar panels and not upgrading our HVAC system was like doing a very fancy expensive paint job on an old beat up car. :)

    At the end of the day - it made most sense to first upgrade our HVAC and heat pump from 10/11 SEER builder grade systems to the most efficient system in the market. This alone saved us over 35% in electricity during the month of August. We wanted add solar a month later so we can see the difference but it was a package deal and Lennox systems come solar ready with the panels. Our panels were installed in September which our utility bill went from 37% savings to 53% saving. As you can see below - with the Federal tax break and the rebate - we saved enough to exceed to cost of the solar panels.

    We are keeping track of our utility bills but because we also changed our heat pump - i have to add the gas bill to the equation before we can demonstrate a true benefit analysis. I must admit that compare to the old unit which was extremely loud - you can barely hear our new Lennox HVAC units running.

    Also, there is a program called "Solarize NOVA" and they will be at the Earth Day event on Sunday, April 26th as well as doing a workshop in Broadlands on Monday, May 18 at 7:00pm - 9:00pm. This program includes:
    Free Solar Site Assessments
    Lower than ever solar panel pricing and affordable financing
    Qualified local solar installers and high performance systems
    You may also qualify for:
    Tax Credit: 30% or cost with no upper limit Expires: December 31, 2016
    Details: Existing homes and new construction qualify. Both principal residences and second homes qualify. Rentals do not qualify.

    SOLARIZENOVA is a one-stop-shop for community members to learn more about solar power options for their homes and facilitate the installation and financing of their own project. Through bulk purchasing and free solar site assessments, SOLARIZENOVA puts solar within reach.

    Since fall 2014, 372 SOLARIZEANOVA worked with homeowners.

    So - here is our upgrade info:
    upload_2015-3-17_23-32-10.png
     

    Attached Files:

  10. OSimpson

    OSimpson Certified Master Naturalist

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