Before You Install Solar Panels, Ask Yourself These Questions

Going solar is a wise investment for both the environment and your pocket. However, it is a significant step and a substantial upfront investment that needs extensive due diligence. Partnering with the right consultants can put you on the path to success. However, before taking the leap of faith, there are a few questions one should ask:

1. About the roof: Before you install solar panels, conduct a roof inspection to determine whether your roof is suitable for solar installation or not. You should think over and double-check the following:

• Strength: Determine if your roof is currently robust enough to hold your new solar panels or whether any modifications or repairs are required. It is imperative that you take the age of the roof into account along with the amount of weight it can withstand. If you are intending to install a plant using RCC route, the thickness of the concrete must be considered to minimise water leakage and other issues. Additionally if you are opting for an industrial shed, the thickness of the metallic sheet must be considered since low grade metallic sheets are not durable.

• Shadow free area: It is critical to have a proper shadow-free area so that post-investment solar plants could generate strong returns.

• Direction: Solar panels must be placed precisely in order to create the optimum quantity of power. It is advisable to have your solar panels face south. This is because owners will save the most money and will have a better ROI if the panels are south facing.
 

2. About the solar company: The entire solar installation procedure is lengthy; you have to deal with and oversee several issues; thus, you must ensure that experienced professionals undertake your installation. Select a firm that has a high level of dependability, performance, and consumer satisfaction. Before deciding on a company, ask them the following questions.

• Background of the firm: Do extensive background research on the history of quality and consistency of the company. Verify if the firm is certified and accredited. Keep a check on who will be working on your project and what their qualifications and experience are. It is essential that the organization is honest with this information. It makes a better solar experience if everyone is on the same page from the beginning of the installation to the customer support after the installation.

• Reviews and Testimonials: Consumer reviews, testimonials, and feedback are the greatest method to determine a company’s credibility. A good solar company will always refer you to their satisfied customers. For better decision making, it is recommended to read user reviews available on Google and the firm website. It will also reveal the company’s commitment, customer service, and experience.

• Make of components: There are two key components of a solar power plant: modules and inverters. You must conduct comprehensive research on the components before going solar. There are many firms out there in the market, which offers a variety of products. Therefore a user must make an informed decision and choose the best solution from tier one companies.

• Details about the functioning of the Solar Panel System: If you are new to this and this is your first effort to install a solar panel, make sure you thoroughly understand how solar panels work. Dive deep into mathematics and gain all necessary knowledge about the procedure, technology, investment, and maintenance.

• The lifespan of the panels? Most solar panels have a life expectancy of 25 to 30 years on average. This is a lengthy term that is ideal for covering the early setup costs. On the other hand, some solar panels have a lower life cycle while others have a longer one. Having an in-depth conversation with your consultants will help you choose a panel that aligns with your overall energy goals.

• Cost of installation? Prices will vary based on the type of panels, their quality, size, and the company that installs them, among other considerations. Discuss and comprehend all costs and deliverables associated with the solar panel installation process with the company you’ve selected.

3. About the panels: Installing solar panels are a great addition to your building, increasing its value while saving you money on energy expenditures. Solar solutions are an excellent method to save energy because they can provide electricity for years with a single upfront investment. Before deciding on the panels, ask yourself these questions.

• What is the required quantity: Consider how many solar panels are needed to power your establishment? This will depend on the size of the building, the number of people that reside there, and the amount of power consumed each day.

• What is the Warranty: Solar panels are rarely defective; although, it is a good idea to have a warranty scheme in place if something goes wrong. A conversation with your consultants touching on all points regarding maintenance of your panels early on will prove to be fruitful.

• What is net metering: The homeowner is only invoiced for the “net” energy used each month using net metering. This is the difference between the energy produced by the solar power system and the energy consumed by the house during the monthly billing period. Certain states do not permit net metering, so in that case you can install a zero export device.

- Mayur Misra, Co-Founder and CEO, Corrit Energy and Infra