Dec

Are DIY solar panels worth the effort to save money?

By admin

Q: A 3-4KW residential grid tied PV system costs about $25-$39,000 for panels and install. That is still too much $ even w/incentives, payback being 12+ years. So I keep reading about DIY panels (100W apparently you solder cells & assemble yourself). Intended more to power specific appliances, they can be connected & grid tied if connected at box by qualified electician/pro. How much would it cost for that connection? DIY worth considering? We built our own solar water panel 25 yrs ago, still in use.

A: Any solar is good solar! If you have the technical skills, there is no reason not to give it a try. However, DIY solar thermal is much more simple than solar electric. First, the incentives are only available for grid tied systems and panels usually come with a warranty that may only be available with professional installation. DIY is always worth considering but because the specific placement of the panels has a great deal to do with their efficiency, its usually worthwhile to speak with a pro. Even if a professional system takes 15 years to pay off, there will be 15 years following of free energy.