Where to get solar panels in Birmingham, AL?

Question

We are considering getting solar panels for our home just south of Birmingham, AL. We know a little and are trying to educate ourselves the best we can. But we are having a hard time finding anyone around this area. We have done the yellow page thing, and some "green " places around town. But to no luck.....

Answer 1

Any electrical contractor could likely install them, and there are several Internet businesses that sell solar panels.  You likely have no place there to get the kind of large panels you need for a house.

Look at your local regulations.  Your utility may not allow grid-tie, so you may have to set up an off-grid system with batteries and use separate wiring or a transfer switch.

One thing a lot of people neglect is hail protection.  In Birmingham, you're likely to have large hail (larger than golf ball size) every couple of years in the spring.  You need to work out a way of covering them in advance of severe weather.  Most panels will take up to golf-ball size hail with no problem.

DK

PS, I've done this myself, and have considerably more information.  Email if you're interested.