Considering installing a photovoltaic (PV) system for your home? Whether you're seeking to lower your utility bill or to make the switch to renewable energy for a cleaner environment, there are several benefits to going solar. But with the amount of information available to us and the financial investment involved, it can become an overwhelming. These Ten Steps to installing solar breaks it down into a clear way to visualize how the process is run from start to finish.
Investigation
Research research research!. Ask friends and family who already have a solar PV system for what company they like. Visit trusted, non-commercial websites such as the BBB, or HSEA that can provide accredited and licensed contractors.
Analysis
Make an appointment to meet with a company representative who can analyze your planned and current utility use, and give you a better idea about what type and size system you might need.
Financing
Discuss what payment options you have based on what you are comfortable with and able to handle financially.
Design
Once you make an educated choice about your licensed contractor, the design process beings. Your contractor should assess your home or building and figure out a system/electric layout that will maximize your potential (based on factors such as location, shading, etc...)
Pre-construction
A building permit and Net Energy Metering Agreement are crucial to insuring that your installation follows all Hawaii codes and that it will qualify for interconnection with HECO. Your contractor will be able to determine whether or not further documentation is also needed.
Construction
Now the installation begins. Traditionally the panels sit on top of mounting equipment which is attached to the structural support your roof.
Certification
After your PV system is installed, your contractor will work with the City and Count of Honolulu to complete the inspection processes (this is required to close out your permit). Once this is completed, HECO will schedule a time to change out your current meter for a special Net Energy Meter.
Operation
When all the testing, permitting and interconnections have been completed, your PV system is energized and you begin producing your own power and saving money.
Review
Be sure to address any final questions that you might have with your contractor. If applicable, be sure that they have provided you with all the documentation that you will need for State & Federal tax credits.
Maintenance
Talk to your contractor to find out what monitoring systems are available for your solar system. Check your kWh production frequently to make sure that your system is providing consistently. The panels are extremely low maintenance, and should be cleaned once a year to remove dust and debris that might interfere with their ability to absorb sunlight.
Investigation
Research research research!. Ask friends and family who already have a solar PV system for what company they like. Visit trusted, non-commercial websites such as the BBB, or HSEA that can provide accredited and licensed contractors.
Analysis
Make an appointment to meet with a company representative who can analyze your planned and current utility use, and give you a better idea about what type and size system you might need.
Financing
Discuss what payment options you have based on what you are comfortable with and able to handle financially.
Design
Once you make an educated choice about your licensed contractor, the design process beings. Your contractor should assess your home or building and figure out a system/electric layout that will maximize your potential (based on factors such as location, shading, etc...)
Pre-construction
A building permit and Net Energy Metering Agreement are crucial to insuring that your installation follows all Hawaii codes and that it will qualify for interconnection with HECO. Your contractor will be able to determine whether or not further documentation is also needed.
Construction
Now the installation begins. Traditionally the panels sit on top of mounting equipment which is attached to the structural support your roof.
Certification
After your PV system is installed, your contractor will work with the City and Count of Honolulu to complete the inspection processes (this is required to close out your permit). Once this is completed, HECO will schedule a time to change out your current meter for a special Net Energy Meter.
Operation
When all the testing, permitting and interconnections have been completed, your PV system is energized and you begin producing your own power and saving money.
Review
Be sure to address any final questions that you might have with your contractor. If applicable, be sure that they have provided you with all the documentation that you will need for State & Federal tax credits.
Maintenance
Talk to your contractor to find out what monitoring systems are available for your solar system. Check your kWh production frequently to make sure that your system is providing consistently. The panels are extremely low maintenance, and should be cleaned once a year to remove dust and debris that might interfere with their ability to absorb sunlight.
About the Author:
Looking to find the best deal on Solar Hawaii, then visit www.islandpacificenergy.com to find the best advice on Hawaii Solar for you.
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