How to Find Home Solar Energy Systems

By Jennifer Claerr

  • Overview

    Investing in a solar home energy system is a smart way to cope with the recent financial and energy crisis. The cost of solar energy systems has dropped, and government financial incentives have increased. There has never been a better time to get solar panels for your home. Still, it can be difficult to decide what kind of system to get and to find an installer in your area. However, with just a little research and planning, you can find a system that will lighten your carbon footprint and lower your energy bill.

    • Step 1

      Navigate to SolarHome.org. Click on the "Free Evaluation" icon on the right side of the page. Click on your state on the map on the next page. Fill in the fields with your name, email address, location, telephone number and other requested information. Include the average number of kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity you use each month. This will help the company to determine whether or not you will save money with a solar energy system.

    • Step 2

      Browse the MrSolar.com website. Look at both their grid-tied solar energy systems and their off-the grid systems. Determine how many hours of direct sunlight your home gets per day. A regional map is provided on the MrSolar website on the page titled, "Clean Energy Grid Tied Systems." MrSolar.com does not provide installation services, so you will need an electrician to install the system if you choose this company to meet your solar needs.

    • Step 3

      Visit the SunWize.com website. Fill in the requested information on the "Dealer Connect" page. Provide the number of kWh you use each month, your budget and your timeline for completion of the installation of the solar energy system. Keep in mind that a SunWize system will provide about half of your electricity needs and cost between $40,000 and $50,000, less any government credits (as of 2009).

    • Step 4

      Check the SolarEnergy.com website for information about additional solar energy providers. SolarEnergy.com is a network that can help you to find a solar energy system dealer in your area. Click on the tabs marked "Complete PV Systems" and "Solar Modules" to see all the dealers that install home photovoltaic systems. Browse the listings under "Certified Dealers" and "Categories."

    • Step 5

      Compare the information that you have received from each home solar energy system dealer. Determine the cost of each solar system in relation to the amount of electricity the system will produce as well as how long each system will last. Decide whether the energy savings will justify the cost of the solar system. Select the solar energy dealer that best suits your budget and needs.
    • Skill: Moderately Easy
    • Tip: Staying on the grid will be the best option for most homeowners, since storing solar energy in batteries is expensive and difficult.
    • Tip: In some areas you may be able to sell your excess electricity to your local provider.
    • Tip: If you live in the northern part of the country, you may not get enough sunlight to make a solar energy system a worthwhile investment. People in the southwestern part of the United States will get the most benefit from photovoltaic panels.

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