solar 101 information session - solar united neighbors … · solar 101 information session....
TRANSCRIPT
Solar 101 information session
We’re a community of people building a new energy system
with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. We help people
go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights.
Co-op/group purchase
• 50 – 100+ neighbors
• Group decision process
• 6 – 8 month process
• Competitive bidding process
for best pricing
• Sign individual contract
Individual Support• Help reviewing proposals
• Negotiate your own deal
• Faster timeline
• Ongoing advice &
assistance (post install)
How we help you go solar
Overview of Solar Technology
Solar photovoltaic (PV)
Converts solar energy to electricity
Solar thermal / solar hot water
Uses solar energy to heat air or water
Solar Technology
Terminology: Kilowatts (kW) & kilowatt-hours (kWh)
System size measured in kW – power
Electricity production measured in kWh – energy
Most homeowners install between 2 kW – 12 kW
Solar Technology
PV Terminology: Modules and Panels
Solar Technology
Monocrystalline Silicon ModuleImage Source: DuPont
Solar Panel/s, Solar Array
Balance of system (BOS) components
Racking system, wiring,
conduit
Central String
Inverter
Solar Technology
Micro-inverter
Bi-directional (net) meter measures electricity flow to/from home
Electricity sent to utility grid is reimbursed at full retail value
Solar homeowner pays for the net energy consumed (solar
production in kWh – utility consumption in kWh)
Solar TechnologyBi-directional meter – Net metering (NEM)
Energy Storage for Homeowners
Two ways it may benefit you
Frequent utility outages
Critical loads at home (ex. well pumps, medical equipment)
Emergency/disaster preparedness
Adds cost and complexity
Solar TechnologyBattery storage
Session 2 (12 p.m.): Solar + Battery Storage for Homes and Businesses (Scott Sklar & Aaron Sutch)
System size and production – limiting factors
Roof faces southerly direction
No or minor shading
Enough space to mount panels
Solar Technology
A few considerations
• Solar is priced by the watt (not by module)
• Solar is long-term
– No moving parts & 25 year lifespan
• Rising energy prices
– Dominion: 30% rate increase in last 10 years
Solar economics
Pricing and investment
• Average 9 – 13 year return on investment
in Virginia
– Depends on site and pricing
• Expect around $15k
– Small systems under $9k
– Large systems over $20k
Solar economics
Solar economics
Assumptions
SRECs not included, 2% energy increase per year, 7kW System Size,
Base Price $2.75/W, 1336 yearly production of 1kW, $0.1243 starting
electricity rate, -0.5% panel degradation per year, 4% Interest rate on
loan, 70% of cost covered by loan , $0 Operations and Maintenance
over system lifetime
30% Federal tax credit
Cost of solar system after 30% Tax Credit
Solar economics