Solar energy is a great option for homeowners since it can offset electricity costs, is more sustainable, and you can become energy independent! If you have a full scale solar panel system in place, you might still be wondering if adding more solar panels is a good idea.
Today, we will go over everything you might need to learn about adding more solar panels to existing solar systems.
Get A Free Solar QuoteBenefits of Adding More Solar Panels
There are many benefits of adding more solar panels that you should note when making a decision:
- You will produce more energy, which means you will receive reduced energy bills since you are relying on the grid less.
- More panels mean that there will be increased energy production
- Solar energy is a source of renewable and clean energy, which means a reduced carbon footprint
- Solar panels might increase the value of the home
How to Add More Solar Panels
Firstly, make sure to assess the current solar energy system before adding more solar panels. The current system may require additional costs or fitting requirements to add more panels. You can also look at solar experts for any questions that you might have regarding the changes in the current solar system.
Secondly, you should check the size of the inverter. It is responsible for converting DC power from the panels to AC power for the national grid and the home. Usually, the inverter is sized according to the solar panels that you had when you were fitted first. It is usually 80-120% of the maximum energy loan. If you are adding more solar panels, homeowners will need to see if the inverter can even handle the load. You might need to buy a separate inverter or increase its size.
Homeowners also require feed-in tariffs to sell back the surplus solar energy that they are sending back to the national grid. Please note that the tariff you receive for the added panels will be paid at current rates instead of when you first fitted your solar panels.
You should also properly access the current use of energy you have before you add more panels to the system. If the solar system is creating a lot of surplus energy and sending it back to the grid, your current system should be good enough. The amount of new solar panels you are adding will depend on your current energy consumption.
Can Solar Panels Increase the Value of the Home?
Solar panel systems are the best way to reduce your electricity bill costs. Plus, they help the environment by creating energy in a sustainable way.
Solar panels are the best way to add value to the property. However, many other factors also impact the property value. Nevertheless, potential buyers are always interested in energy savings and the appeal of the solar system.
Here are the factors that can impact the added value of the solar system.
Location
It goes without saying that the value of your property can be greatly impacted by where your home is located. As a result, the location of a property definitely affects its value, especially in places with lots of sunlight and high power costs.
Additionally, if your community or area prioritizes environmental sustainability, having solar panels installed might raise the perceived value of your house. Not to mention, government incentives and supporting laws may also be quite important in raising the popularity of solar-equipped homes, depending on where you live.
The states with the highest demand for solar panels are Oregon, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New Mexico. The most popular cities for solar panel installations are Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, San Jose, San Antonio, and New York. Solar panels will probably raise the value of your house if you reside in one of these places.
Electricity Rates
The cost of power is one of the key elements that determines how valuable solar panels are for homes. Solar panels may significantly cut energy costs, which will lower electricity bills and provide prospective purchasers with a financial incentive. This has the ability to increase a home's value and improve its market appeal.
Get A Free Solar QuoteSolar Panel Ownership
Solar panels are simply transferable from the seller of the home to the buyer when they are bought outright. On the other hand, you will have to collaborate with the solar provider to determine who will own the panels if you are leasing them.
Usually, by purchasing the lease outright or transferring ownership, the buyer can assume control of the solar system. To prevent misunderstanding and future legal problems, it is crucial to maintain track of who owns ownership rights over a property when buying or selling one.
Solar System Condition
Solar panels have a big influence on property value, even though they might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you consider how much a house is worth. As a result, it is crucial to make sure they are in good operating order. The state of the solar system is significant since it has an immediate impact on its longevity, functioning, and efficiency.
Properly operating and well-maintained solar panels increase the property's total value and are likely to draw in potential purchasers. The durability and functionality of the panel are ensured by routine maintenance, which includes cleaning and examination.
Older or damaged panels can lose efficiency, which lowers energy output and raises the possibility of maintenance expenses. As a result, maintaining solar panels enhances their ability to produce electricity and eventually raises the value of the property.
Conclusion
Solar panels are a great way to save on electricity costs and become energy-independent. They are a sustainable way to address the energy crisis and climate crisis. Before adding more solar panels, make sure to assess your current situation.