The number of American households using small-scale solar power has increased in recent years, accounting for nearly 33% of the United States’ solar capacity. With so many homes upgrading, homeowners in Maryland and other states wonder whether now is a good time to install solar energy. However, this question involves more than market research, since the home itself may not be ready to support a new solar installation without the proper preparation and insight.
This article aims to help Maryland homeowners figure out whether their home is ready for a solar upgrade or what changes they can make to align their property with their solar goals. Continue reading for our solar readiness checklist, including structural, electrical, and financial issues that all homeowners should address before investing in a new solar array.
Item #1: Check the Roof for Solar Viability
Homeowners should begin their solar readiness checklist by assessing whether their roof can support a solar installation. The first issue is its load capacity, which may require an assessment from a local solar provider to determine whether the roof can hold solar panels. This is particularly significant for older and historic homes, as they often have outdated or worn roofing materials that may not support the weight of the panels.
Additionally, the roof’s orientation may not be ideal for solar. In Maryland, a South-facing roof structure can take the most advantage of solar power, while the pitch and orientation can change its viability depending on other factors such as shade.
Next Steps
After assessing these points, homeowners should make the necessary changes before moving forward with the solar installation. This could include replacing or repairing the roof, trimming shade trees, or removing a chimney.
Item #2: Evaluate the Electrical Infrastructure
The solar array’s compatibility with the home’s electrical system is just as significant as its exposure to sunlight in gauging its potential for power savings. Solar arrays must connect to the home’s electrical system and the utility provider’s grid, which may require updates.
For example, different utilities (BGE, Pepco, etc.) may have different interconnection policies and net metering rules. Since Maryland offers a Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) market, a viable utility connection will not only enable solar generation but can also generate income.
Next Steps
Outdated or incompatible electrical systems may need to be upgraded before the solar installation can proceed, potentially adding time and money to the project.
Item #3: Assess the Home’s Energy Usage
Solar installations come in different sizes. Larger installations cannot always recoup the additional installation costs due to limits on the power they can generate. Homeowners need to match the installation to their home’s size, but to do so, they need to recognize how their home’s energy usage will influence their choice.
The average Maryland household pays around $0.186 per kWh for electricity, with an average monthly consumption of 915 kWh. This suggests that an 8 kW system would be ideal for the average home, but this will vary depending on each household’s energy usage requirements, usable solar panel area, and solar generation goals.
Next Steps
Ask a local solar installer to review your home’s energy usage history and recommend a solar system size that matches your monthly energy needs.
Item #4: Consider Both Short-term and Long-term Financial Commitments
Most homeowners who are budgeting for a solar installation will ask their potential providers about the short-term costs of installation, including hardware, materials, and labor. However, the long-term costs of solar power arrays extend beyond the short term.
As part of their pre-installation checklist, homeowners should also ask about maintenance schedules, inspection costs, cleaning processes, and warranty terms. Maryland-specific environmental conditions, such as snow and wind storms, can impact maintenance schedules and warranty eligibility.
Next Steps
Prioritize local solar installers who are familiar with the distinct challenges of solar panel ownership in Maryland. These providers work with homeowners to monitor their warranties and provide maintenance schedules personalized to their home’s needs.
Item #5: Set a Timeline and Exit Plan
The final readiness check that homeowners should conduct is their final timeline assessment, including the length of time they plan to remain in the home. For example, those who plan to move in 1-5 years may not see any return on their investment, though solar panels can increase the home’s sale value.
In the event of a sale, system ownership will transfer to the new homeowner, including the payment method, which is usually a loan or a lease. This process should be considered when assessing the home for solar eligibility. For homeowners with a longer time horizon, who will remain in the house for at least 5 years, the outlook is better for paying off the installation and reaping the full benefits of energy generation.
Next Steps
Make sure your personal timeline and investment goals align with the time you plan to remain in the home, including the time needed to prepare the house for solar power.
Ready to Upgrade to Solar Power? Contact Local Solar Installers for More Information
At Energy Select, our team of solar installers helps homeowners assess their solar readiness, prepare their homes for their new panels, and set realistic timelines for installation, maintenance, and profit. We offer instant estimates for solar installations to help homeowners make informed decisions.
Are you ready to take the next step toward achieving your solar goals? Contact our team today to request a quote and visit our website to learn more about your solar eligibility and installation options for your Maryland home.