While some may or may not share my initial enthusiasm for solar energy, I believe it can offer significant benefits. However, my own experience highlights the crucial importance of thorough research and understanding all details before investing.
I installed a 5.7kWdc roof-mounted system with Freedom Forever, hoping for net neutrality based on their simulations. Unfortunately, crucial buyback rate information was omitted, and despite requesting research time, a discount pressured me into a rushed decision. this mistake costed me $30k
Six months later, reality set in. My utility company paid only 6 cents per kWh for generated power while charging 18 cents for purchased electricity. This significant discrepancy, coupled with an undersized system (limited to 3.9kW by the inverter), led to understandable frustration.
Determined to optimize, I addressed inefficiencies. My 2019-built house had poor insulation, contributing to high energy usage (50 kWh/day winter, 60 kWh/day summer). By sealing leaks, installing motorized back draft dampers, and improving insulation, I reduced usage to 20~30 kWh/day, eliminating reliance on inefficient electric strip heating that drew about 5000 watts. (TIP. Don't turn the Thermostat of your heat pump by more than 2 degrees setpoint, if you do that you will unnecessarily turn on the strip heat. set your heat pump at 65 ° F when away in the summer and 80 ° F in summer)
Armed with insights, I'm ready to right-size my system. Sourcing equipment independently (5.5kW panels, 10kW inverter, 60kW batteries) was significantly more cost-effective(not even close to my original install with Freedom Forever). Simulations project sufficient sunlight to charge the batteries in one day and sustain us for up to 3 cloudy days while generating $950-$1300 annually from the utility company.
In essence, going solar requires meticulous research to understand risks and rewards. Renting power from your utility company may be better in some cases. Choose wisely, and don't let discounts pressure you into rushed decisions. in the coming months hope to share my journey and seek advice from you guys
I installed a 5.7kWdc roof-mounted system with Freedom Forever, hoping for net neutrality based on their simulations. Unfortunately, crucial buyback rate information was omitted, and despite requesting research time, a discount pressured me into a rushed decision. this mistake costed me $30k
Six months later, reality set in. My utility company paid only 6 cents per kWh for generated power while charging 18 cents for purchased electricity. This significant discrepancy, coupled with an undersized system (limited to 3.9kW by the inverter), led to understandable frustration.
Determined to optimize, I addressed inefficiencies. My 2019-built house had poor insulation, contributing to high energy usage (50 kWh/day winter, 60 kWh/day summer). By sealing leaks, installing motorized back draft dampers, and improving insulation, I reduced usage to 20~30 kWh/day, eliminating reliance on inefficient electric strip heating that drew about 5000 watts. (TIP. Don't turn the Thermostat of your heat pump by more than 2 degrees setpoint, if you do that you will unnecessarily turn on the strip heat. set your heat pump at 65 ° F when away in the summer and 80 ° F in summer)
Armed with insights, I'm ready to right-size my system. Sourcing equipment independently (5.5kW panels, 10kW inverter, 60kW batteries) was significantly more cost-effective(not even close to my original install with Freedom Forever). Simulations project sufficient sunlight to charge the batteries in one day and sustain us for up to 3 cloudy days while generating $950-$1300 annually from the utility company.
In essence, going solar requires meticulous research to understand risks and rewards. Renting power from your utility company may be better in some cases. Choose wisely, and don't let discounts pressure you into rushed decisions. in the coming months hope to share my journey and seek advice from you guys
