Solar Panel Installation Basics

Solar electric systems are incredible tools that can be used in a variety of different applications.

Maybe you're building an off-grid home, cabin, or even RV, that will require a steady source of electricity. Maybe you're looking to cut down on your home electric bill, or just doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint. 

Regardless of the size and scope of your installation, shopping for solar panels can be daunting. 

You can easily get caught up in the questions: How much do they cost?  How long do they last? How many solar panels will you need? What type should you get? In this guide, we will address all of the most common questions, and get you started on your path to solar energy!

How much will they cost?

There are a lot of variables at play here which will affect your final pricing. First you have to consider what percentage of your home's electrical needs you're looking to cover. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average household uses about  914kWh per month, which is roughly 30kWh per day. 

Then, you'll have to consider the actual output of each panel based on your location. Energysage has a great article on the topic which estimates the average home will require around 28-34 panels in order to cover your entire energy needs. 

The Verdict: If you're setting up a small system for a cabin or a vehicle, you will likely only need to spend a few thousand dollars. However, a full system for your home can cost your anywhere from $15,00-$20,000.  This will include the panels themselves as well as the cost of labor for the solar panel system installation.

How long will they last?

To answer this, you should shop around. Different companies will have different lifetime warranties, with the more reputable ones covering your installation for up to 20-25 years!

What type should you get?

There are a few different types of solar panels, and it's important to know which ones you're getting. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most expensive, but are also highly standardized and will provide the highest efficiency, up to 17% for polycrystalline and 20% for monocrystalline. Thin-film is the cheapest variant, but will also provide you with worse efficiency and ultimately a lower return on investment. 

Ultimately, this is just the tip of the iceberg! In order to have the best experience, you should consider shopping around, getting multiple detailed quotes, and researching the specific ROI for your area in order to find the best deal on your solar electric system.

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