Why Do We Suggest Total Home Solar w/PV?

Solar panels take advantage of one of nature’s most powerful yet free resources: the energy produced by the sun. 

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic systems (PV systems), use semiconductor technology to convert energy from sunlight into electricity that can power your household.

If you have been following our blog regularly, you will notice that we strongly recommend converting your home entirely on solar photovoltaic (PV). Recently, we have been getting a lot of requests asking us to explain the reasons for doing so.

So, let’s take a closer look at why we suggest you to go completely solar.

• Homeowners who install photovoltaic power systems receive numerous benefits: lower electric bills, lower carbon footprints, and potentially higher home values.

• Modern technology makes it cost-effective and sensible to build a 100% solar-powered home, with no utility bills and minimal carbon footprint.

• A significant benefit to PV installation is a lower energy bill.  The magnitude of this benefit depends on the amount of solar energy that can be produced given the available conditions and the way in which utilities charge for electricity.

When it comes to using solar panels, being closer to the equator is generally better, but other factors must be considered.

Equally important is the home's orientation; for rooftop arrays, a south-facing roof without trees or other objects obstructing sunlight maximizes the available solar energy. If this is not available, panels can be mounted on external supports and installed away from the house.

Another consideration is the timing of solar power production, and how utilities charge for electricity. Solar power generation occurs primarily during the afternoon and is higher during summer, thus corresponding relatively well to overall electricity demand in warm climates because it is at these times that air conditioners consume the most energy.

A major benefit of fully-powered solar home is that homeowners can sell solar-generated electricity to utilities. This is done through "net metering" plans, in which residential consumers use the power that they put into the grid (when the rate of electricity generation from the solar array is greater than the rate of household electricity consumption) to offset the power consumed at other times; the monthly electric bill reflects net energy consumption.

Another benefit of a 100% solar home is the potential effect on a home's value due to the addition of a solar array. In general, it is reasonable to assume that solar panels would raise the value of most homes.

• First, there is an undeniable financial benefit to having lower electricity bills as a result of a solar array.
• Second, the trend toward "green" living means there is a growing demand for homes that have a smaller carbon footprint and are powered by renewable sources.
• Finally, buying a home with solar already installed means the investment is financed (for the homebuyer) through the mortgage. This ease of financing potentially makes solar more affordable for a homebuyer than buying a house without solar and subsequently adding a solar array.

The points discussed above explain the reasons why we are advocating for a “Total Solar Home”.

Determining whether to install a PV solar system may seem like a daunting task, but it is important to remember that such a system is a long-term investment.

At Aztek Solar, we can help you fulfill your dream of completely powering your house with solar energy. Just give us a call or reach out to us through our website and we will take care of the rest!

Thanks for reading!

Brian McKay

Owner, Aztek Solar Ltd.