Quote:
Originally Posted by koland
A lot depends on the local power company (ours pays back a premium on all output, higher than you pay to get power used).
Properly designed, with batteries, etc, you'll have more into it, but will be able to sever ties to the grid when power is off (here, it's snow - been off for up to 5 days). That should mean you save on a generator (purchase, storage, maintenance and the fuel storage to use it).
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Initial costs were very high even with Federal subsidies. Included was the cost of a new roof and maintenance plan. Also, I would have to pay extra to cut down trees that span over the roof. Removing the trees would increase my winter heating costs.
The solar panels would not cover all my energy needs. I would still need to draw from the local grid. Although, after hurricane Sandy and no local power for 10 days they may have provided enough for refrigeration, sump pump and lights. All my neighbors bought generators in preparation for the storm. Unfortunately, the 14ft surge overwhelmed them and they wouldn't start. (For future reference, generators need to be placed on a platform above flood plain elevation or relocated to higher ground and then transported back to your home after the flood.) Also, there was no gasoline available to run them anyway. Gas stations closed.