Residential Solar Power Systems

by Matt Gerchow

With the rising cost of energy, more families are looking into residential solar power systems. There are many other reasons people are looking into solar energy, particularly those who desire a more eco friendly alternative to energy.

However, when one looks into solar energy, he or she needs to consider how much sunlight he or she gets not only during the day but also throughout the year. This will help determine whether solar power is worth the investment in terms of cost.

Why use solar power?

If someone lives in an area that gets a generous amount of sunlight during the year, using solar power can save him or her lots of money. In fact, when a residence gets more solar power than it uses, it literally turns back the meter and the extra energy can be sold back to the power company creating a little extra income.

Furthermore, using solar power is better for the environment. In fact, more people are looking into solar energy more for the environmental benefits that allows them to preserve energy. The cost incentives are an added bonus.

What is a residential solar power system?

A residential solar power system is simply a system designed for home use in which solar power is collected to create energy. Individuals can purchase solar panels to be installed in a private residence usually on a rooftop or the area of the home exposed to the most sunlight.

Photovoltaic panels must be installed in direct sunlight and all obstructions to sunlight have to be removed in order to get the maximum effect. For instance, a tree branch or other tall structure can sometimes get in the way and diminish the efficiency of the panels.

What are the costs of using solar power?

There are many factors that will affect the costs of solar power. However, after the initial investment in the panels, solar energy is virtually free. Panels usually run from about 95 to almost 300 kilowatts. This combined with the specific brand will determine how much one will pay for the panels. This cost can range from a little more than 150 per unit to nearly 700 per unit.

How hard is it to set up a residential solar power system?

One can find any number of sources to find out how to install solar panels if he or she is keen to take on the task him or herself. Many will choose to have a professional install the panels to assure the job is done safely and correctly. However, the ease or difficulty of this installation can depend upon the type of mounts used to install the panels.

These mounts include flush mounts, pole mounts and roof-ground mounts. Flush mounts are inexpensive and easy to install while roof-ground are used for larger systems located away from city electric grids. Pole mounts come as poll tracking, side of pole and top of pole mounts. They are also easy to install and may be used so that the panels are free standing.