Anyone know if solar pannels are worth to buy for the home?

Question

I am looking to find out the cost and reward for a home solar panel and the amount of energy it can produce. Maybe some web sites that can give me detailed info.

Answer 1

Definitely! (in the long run). The upfront costs are alot but they will pay for themselves over the course of 5 years or so, depends on how sunny the llocation of your house is.....how many panels you have. Plus, it's good for the environment! If you have any other questions about homes and related topics, you should check out this new home forum called http://www.homefinderforum.com

Professionals in all kinds of home industries get together there....

Answer 2

If you pay the full cost yourself, they are not worth it. But if you can get government money, it can be a good deal for you. The U.S. government offers an income tax credit I believe. Many state and local governments have their own programs and many utilities have rebates. It is possible to get others to pay 70% or 80% of the cost in some cases. Then it is worth the cost. Otherwise, wait until solar cells get cheaper.

Answer 3

There's no easy answer, it depends on exactly where you live.  Things like tax breaks, the ability to sell excess power back; all count.

A solar power firm in your area can walk you through the numbers relevant to you.  Here's one in norther California:

http://www.planitsolar.com/

Answer 4

read about solar heating for you home.  If you have the money to invest in it then in the long run you will be glad you did.  I read about a guy that got his housing costs down to nothing using that and other methods.  Its worth it.

Answer 5

Depends on how much electricity you consume.  I run 600 or so KWH per month, and no matter how much smoke and mirrors they show you, it is not practical yet.  Electricity has to double or triple in price, or the cost of installation has to come down by 50% or so, and then maybe it would pencil out.  The sad part is, the cost of the panels and components are not that much, but a typical homeowner can not get the handfuls of permits and tax credits need to install the system.  So you have to hire a contractor, and he doubles the price.

One thing you should remember is, these systems do not run forever, so when they start crapping out in 20 years or so, you have to do it again.  They can't give you a decent return on your investment.