Cooperative Living May 2024 - 23
ENERGY SENSE
Why Solar is Not Free
Costs are associated with capturing the sun
by Miranda Boutelle, Contributing Columnist
Installing a residential solar system doesn't necessarily
equate to zero energy bills. You will need to pay for
equipment and installation, and continue to rely on
your electric utility for electricity when your system is
not producing power.
Q:
T
I often hear claims you'll never
pay an electric bill again if you
go solar. Is that true?
here are equipment and
installation costs, and then
you will likely still rely on your
electric utility for power at night and
when the skies are cloudy for days on
end. Most electric utility rate structures
include a set monthly service fee.
Unless you plan to disconnect from
local electric service completely, you
will still have a monthly electric bill.
If you are considering solar,
I suggest taking these three steps:
First, make your home as energyeffi
cient as possible. It wouldn't make
sense to put a new motor on a boat
with holes in it, so why would you put
a solar system on an energy-wasting
home? Invest in reducing wasted
energy before investing in creating
new energy. Th e effi ciency updates
I recommend before installing solar
co-opliving.com
A:
The ability to generate renewable energy at home is an
amazing thing, and the concept of free energy from the
sun is appealing, but the truth is that solar power isn't free.
Before making a signifi cant investment
in solar energy, thoroughly research the
costs and benefi ts, and improve your
home's energy effi ciency.
include insulating and air sealing
your home and upgrading to effi cient
appliances - especially the heating,
ventilation and air-conditioning system.
Second, check with your electric
utility about the requirements to install
solar and how it will impact your bill.
If you decide to install solar panels,
working with your electric cooperative
will be essential, as you will need
to take important steps, such as signing
an interconnection agreement to
ensure the system is properly connected
to the electric grid.
Th ird, get at least three quotes
to compare each contractor's
recommended system design,
equipment and cost. It's oſt en a
signifi cant investment, so you want
to know your options.
Investing in solar is one way to
support the transition to renewable
energy, but before you leap, improve
your home's energy effi ciency and
empower yourself by thoroughly
weighing the costs and benefi ts.
*
Miranda Boutelle writes on energy-effi ciency
topics for the National Rural Electric
Cooperative Association.
May 2024 * Cooperative Living * 21
http://www.co-opliving.com
Cooperative Living May 2024
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Cooperative Living May 2024
Cooperative Living May 2024 - Statewide cover Final
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