Recently, Fount Hanson emailed CalFinder Solar wondering at the unavailability of solar rebates for self-installed solar systems. Mr. Hanson is a retired electrician, one who would likely pass the solar DIY quiz. Still, under most state laws, including California, solar systems must be installed by registered contractors. Systems are otherwise ineligible for state rebates.

There are a few reasons why I think such rules may be in place.

• For one, the vast majority of people are not qualified to properly install a complicated solar electric system. These rules are partially an attempt to discourage hackneyed systems which may not effectively produce electricity and be a subsequent waste of state funds.
• This rule has helped to create jobs and increased the number of people who are trained and certified to install solar systems.

Now, that doesn’t make it any easier to be an unrecognized exception to the rule. There are, however, some good reasons why Mr. Hanson and other qualified DIYers should go for it anyway. (more…)

Florida, the sunshine state and a favorite for vacationers and retirees. Looking out my window at our dreary rainy Oregon weather, Florida is sounding pretty appealing at the moment. If you already are enjoying her tropical beaches or are considering a move in that direction, these new tax credits may peak your interest.

In a progressive mindset, the State of Florida has taken the initiative to offer tax incentives to builders to encourage the inclusion of solar systems into new home construction. Florida already had a number of incentives in place, but the recent housing rescue plan included some additional tax credits that make the inclusion of solar systems into new homes surprisingly affordable for contractors. After deducting all of the financial incentives, a 2 kWh system will only cost the contractor $2500-4000. The new homeowner can also benefit, receiving $450 back from the utility company and up to 30% of the total expense back. (more…)

Solar energy can be a very confusing topic, especially when in the midst of the planning and installation process. Many homeowners get flabbergasted by a seemingly endless barrage of structural, environmental, and financial issues. Fortunately, many of these questions have simple answers and are often the source of unwarranted stress. One of these common questions deals with the roof’s ability to support the weight of solar panels.

The vast majority of the time, structural support is not an issue. Solar panels are distributed across the roof and are not as heavy as many skeptics think. A solar panel usually adds just a few pounds per square foot of load onto the roof. Any modern roof is designed to support a lot more than that. That then, is the heart of the issue.

If you live in a fairly modern house, say, built in the last 50 years, you are probably safe. This, of course, ignores any extenuating circumstances such as water damage, rot, and other problems that should take top priority anyway. A solar contractor will always do a structural evaluation of the roof before installing panels. Probably 9 times out of 10, or more, the roof is plenty strong. (more…)