8 Things to Keep in Mind Before Installing Residential Solar System

Solar energy is the new go-to move for the population residing in India. Every other Indian household is looking to install a solar plant, as it not only saves your electricity expenses but also contributes to the environment. When you adopt solar energy, your dependence on the traditional sources of electricity is completely wiped off and you become energy independent. 

Although it seems like the most reliable option of energy

• Will You Be Able To “0” Your Electricity Bill?

Answer: 1 KW Solar power plant installed at your residence will generate approximately 5 units of electricity in a single day.  To completely wipe off your electricity bill, you will need to design and install the system according to your monthly consumption. If your monthly electricity unit consumption is 1500 units, you will need to install a solar plant of 10 KW capacity which will nil your electricity bill. Hence, by using proper designing and engineering, you will be able to zero your electricity bill.  

• What Is The Life Of The Solar System

Answer: Solar system includes multiple equipment which comes with different warranties. The most important part of the solar system is the solar panel, which has a 25 years warranty. The generation of your plant is for a minimum 25 years and more. It is one of the most advanced and cleanest form of energy. It will stay with you till the time you are using your electrical appliances.

• Sanctioned Load Of Your House

Answer: Sanctioned load is basically provided by every electricity board (Discom) to the user for their residence or workplace. The solar installation policy varies from state to state where the user is not able to install more than 100% of the sanctioned load of the customer. Basically, sanctioned load acts as the limit to your solar installation. For e.g. the sanctioned load of a house in New Delhi is 10 KW, so they cannot exceed the solar installation capacity above 10 KW. 

• Do You Need Batteries?

Answer: If you are facing regular power outages or no availability of grid in your locality then you definitely require an off grid solar system. After installing an off grid solar system, the user will be able to save the energy in batteries which can be used later while non-availability of the grid. There are different technologies in batteries such as gel batteries and lithium batteries. The better performing one is the lithium battery as they require zero maintenance and also have better life and performance than the others. The capital cost will automatically increase when you opt for a solar system with a battery. 

• Area Available On Your Roof

Answer: Generally, a solar plant of size 1 KW requires 80 to 100 sq. ft shadow free area for installation, which is the thumb rule. With daily advancements in technology, the solar panels are being launched in higher wattage and efficiency. This will automatically reduce the number of solar panels required. Hence, it will require less space accordingly.  

• Can it be relocated from your roof if you plan to shift from the house?

Answer:  Solar systems have a long life where they are helping you drastically decrease your electricity bills as well as contribute to the environment in many ways. Solar panels are mounted on the roof with the help of mounting structures which vary in types and weights. They are easy to install. Once solar panels are installed on the roof, they can be relocated to any other location with the help of experienced professionals. While relocating the solar plant, we need to re-purchase balance of system, cables and other equipment whereas solar panels and inverter need not be bought again during relocation.   

• What will be the cost for installing a solar system?

Answer: The cost of the solar system completely depends upon the equipment you decide to install, location of the site and capacity of the solar plant. It varies from Rs. 55,000 to 60,000 per KW depending upon the requirements. This cost includes complete supply and installation cost of solar panels, inverter, structure and balance of system. As the system size increases, we see a small dip in price. Also, there are multiple financing options available by leading financial institutions and NBFCs where you will just be paying 25 to 30% of the capital cost and rest in easy EMIs. Also, the cost of solar systems has become so affordable now, that anyone can install a solar system. 

• How can you maintain the solar system after purchase?

Answer:  Solar panels come with a 25 years warranty and they are fixed equipment on the roof with zero movement. Once, they are mounted on the roof – you just need to clean solar panels every 15 to 20 days. Cleaning of solar panels is the only necessary maintenance. It can be done by professionals as well as normal individuals with cleaning equipment. It is very easy to maintain and convenient to use. 

Solar system for the residential market has been booming since the benefits and advantages are infinite. These 8 points will clear out your doubts in mind before planning a solar panel system for home. Once you understand the complete working of the solar system, you are ready to go solar. After adopting solar energy, your dependence on the traditional sources of electricity will reduce. You will start contributing to the environment on a daily basis with the most effective form of renewable energy.