Solar Power

[schnarkle]

Is it worth it for the home? Have panels gotten cheaper, or better in the last 10 years or so?

 

[stupidgringo]

Panels have goten cheaper and better, but they still require a pretty big investment.

Installed cost is anywhere from $6,000 to $10,000 per kW. Depending on your home (size, efficiency of appliances, windows, insulation) a 1 kW system might cover 10% to 20% of your electricity. The same 1 kW system will take up a bit less than 100 sq ft on your roof.

Any solar electric system will eventually pay for itself, but it will take some time. You might check with your utility co to see if they offer rebates or loan programs.

 

[horn4life]

Austin has a big rebate for solar installations.

The installation is indeed still expensive, but with my electricy bill having increased nearly 20% over the last 18 months and expecting another increase this year the point of return my be sooner than you think.