By Miranda Boutelle
When I tell people I work in energy efficiency, one of the first responses I hear is, “Oh, I’m thinking about getting solar installed on my house.” I hear it around campfires, meeting other parents at the park and on the ride to the airport.
A valuable step to take when considering solar is contacting your electric co-op to learn about solar offerings, rate structures and interconnection agreements. Photo Source: Mike Teegarden, Pioneer Utility Resources
Most people don’t realize solar is not energy efficiency. Solar is generating energy. Energy efficiency is finding ways to use less energy. I can see the association because both are thought of as beneficial to the environment and a way to save money.
My follow-up question is, “What are your motivations for installing solar?”
In my experience, people are motivated by saving money, concern for the environment or both. Focusing first on energy efficiency addresses both motivations.
Here are considerations if you are interested in installing solar.
Energy Consumption
Solar systems are sized based on a home’s energy needs. The larger the system, the higher the cost. Before installing solar, make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible. This means it will use less energy and allow you to install a smaller solar system, which will save money and reduce your home’s environmental impact.
Verify the efficiency of your lighting, HVAC systems and insulation. A fully insulated and air-sealed home uses less energy, and those measures are less expensive than solar panels. Finish these energy efficiency projects before installing solar.
Affordability
Consider your overall out-of-pocket expenses. The expected life span of a heating and cooling system is 15 to 25 years. Check the age and condition of your HVAC equipment and consider the expenses of replacement. If something happens, can you afford to fix or replace it?
Roofing
Consider the age, orientation and shade of your roof. It is more difficult — and expensive — to reroof a home with solar panels. Will the roof need to be replaced before the solar panels need to be replaced?
The best orientation for solar panels is south facing to receive direct light throughout the day. A shaded roof helps keep your home cool in the summertime but reduces solar energy production.
Maintenance
A solar system doesn’t last forever. Life spans range from 25 to 30 years. As systems degrade over time, they produce less energy. Maintenance and repairs may be needed.
Electric Bills and Storage
Solar is not “off the grid.” Unless you plan to disconnect from your electric co-op, you will still receive a monthly bill.
Solar panels only produce power when the sun is shining. If you want power to your home at other times, like after dark, you need to be connected to your electric co-op or invest in battery storage system — that comes at an additional cost.
During power outages, don’t assume solar panels will supply you with power. Typical solar interconnection to the grid requires the panels to shut down during a power outage. This protects lineworkers from injury while making repairs.
Contact Your Electric Co-op
Solar contractors often work in several utility service territories and may not be familiar with your co-op’s offerings, rate structures and interconnection agreements.
Before signing an agreement, check with your electric co-op for local information rather than relying on what the contractor says.
Many electric co-ops offer community solar programs. You may have an option to enjoy the benefits of solar without the responsibilities of ownership and maintenance. Photo Source: Courtney Cobb, Central Electric Cooperative
As with any other system for your home, I recommend getting bids from three contractors to compare equipment and pricing.
Another option may be community-owned solar. Many electric co-ops offer community solar programs. You may have an option to enjoy the benefits of solar without the responsibilities of ownership and maintenance.
Understanding these considerations before installing solar will ensure you meet your money-saving and environmental goals.
Miranda Boutelle is the director of operations and customer engagement at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company. She also writes on energy efficiency topics for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.