Home Solar

So this is how the project begins:


Requirements:

• Maximum billing, $0.12/kWh, reduction not taxable
• Minimize power to grid, $0.05/kWh, taxable income
• Expandable

Proposed $61,000 solution:

• 6 kW
  • 400 W panels
• Integrat with existing emergency generator
  • 16 kW, $0.45/kWh
  • natural gas fueled
  • 30-35 seconds startup
• Load managing, smart breaker panel
  • 5 kW battery, 16 ms (one cycle) switch to support house load
  • EV charging, work shed, water heater, oven+stove - OFF
  • Lights, gas heater, refrigerator, communications - ON
  • All on when 16 kW generator comes online
    
    • Solar reduces generator fuel consumption

    ​

I have contracted with "SOLAR Alternatives" for a turn-key solution. Yes, it would be fun to "roll your own" but I am paying extra for their expertise and warranty. Furthermore, at age 74, I really shouldn't be scampering up ladders, laying my own power lines, and replacing the breaker box. They come with integration skills including with the Generac emergency generator.

Bob Wilson

 

There are two "ground stumps." The larger one nearest the camera held a former pine tree, ~56 years old. The smaller one in front of the BMW i3-REx was some "red berry" tall tree about the same age. I had both removed and hauled off. I have not removed the legacy pine needles since their installation staff can borrow a broom.

The remaining pine tree on the right shades the master bedroom and two smaller ones. The photo was taken on Friday, November 21, about 30 days ahead of the winter solstice, December 21.

Here is their initial, proposal:


My spreadsheet model and NREL web pages project an annual cost avoidance of ~$1,000 per year. So I've transferred the profits of my former TSLA stock to get a recurring, $1,000 per year payback. One I can enjoy more than whoever get my TSLA after I'm gone.

I have gas heating so summer solar for air conditioning is more important than in the winter. Not shown, the back of the house has no shading trees on my property. Fortunately, my property is over one meter higher than the back yard properties. There is a ridge line to the east that delays sunrise by about 1/2 hour.

I anticipate moref panels will be on the eastern side to maximize summer solar power. But I leave that to their design teams after a site inspection. They appreciated my photos but I emphasized a site survey brings eyes and experience that I lack. The more information they have, the better the final project.

I sent them names of three hotels, 2 miles away, and a contractor motel walking distance from my house. I volunteered to let them use one of my two cars, Tesla or BMW i3-REx during their visit. I also named and offered dinner at better restaurants in Huntsville.

Before they arrive, I'll run a Cat-6 ethernet from the breaker closet to the TV room where the cable modem is located. I've got a Cisco switch ordered to free up ports for the "SPAN Panel." I'll also run a #6/3, NMC, from the breaker closet to the corner where I want to mount my Tesla Universal charger. I will probably run a Cat-6 line from the TV room to the Tesla charging demarcation for more reliable and faster WiFi for the Tesla and 'she shed.'

I have a fine appreciation for letting the technically skilled do their best while showing an appreciative interest. So I visited their shop in New Orleans returning home. They liked my Starship photo. But more importantly, we have a good sense of each others skills, abilities, and commitment.

Bob Wilson