Should I Stay or Should I Grow … my solar system?

Now or Later

When building a solar system, it is standard to design based on your historical energy usage. NV Energy guidelines allow for designing up to 100% of your energy consumption from the past 12 months. In cases where there is insufficient historical usage, NV Energy guidelines provide a formula based on a home’s square footage.

Back to the Future

If your future includes adding a swimming pool or spa or using your air conditioner more frequently in the summertime, installing extra panels to your system is a good idea.

Another example is someone who has recently purchased or plans to purchase an Electric Vehicle (EV). EVs do require considerable energy consumption at home. Based on the vehicle and the annual mileage, an estimate of the number of extra panels necessary will be determined.

To exceed NV Energy’s 100% requirement, we will assist you in obtaining the mandatory engineering calculations letter. An engineer will calculate and outline the additional energy requirements associated with your plans to justify the need for extra panels. Once we submit this letter to NV Energy, you will be approved to obtain the additional panels required.

The Big Chill

Financial reasons you should get more panels now, not later:

1. Fixed Base Costs – For example, rolling a truck up to your home is the exact cost for three panels vs 30 panels. The cost of a permit, inspection, and utility fees are also the same regardless of the quality of the panels you get.

Suppose you get three panels after installing your main solar system (Expansion). These base costs are spread amongst three panels, resulting in a higher cost per panel than 30 panels. The more panels you get, the cheaper your price per panel becomes.

• Inflation—Like most things in life, things are more expensive now than they were just a few years ago. Although the panels are a little better now, the cost per kWh is higher.

• Peace of Mind—If you have a buffer of panels, you are less likely to get an extra bill from NV Energy. You don’t have to constantly watch your usage, and you can keep the temperature of your house at a slightly more comfortable level in the summertime.

Robco’s Recommendation

If you can get extra panels with your new system now, do it! It’ll be worth it since expansion panels are always more expensive than adding them initially with your main system. You’ll also be able to rest easily knowing you have plenty of coverage for your needs.

To get a free, no-obligation quote, click here.