Solar Energy Development in Homes
Home Goes Solar to Cut Energy Bills and Boost Property Value
A household on the rainy south coast of British Columbia has turned to solar power as a solution to curb their rising energy bills. The decision was influenced by various factors, including anticipated increases in power prices, a long-term plan to go electric, the expected longevity and cost-effectiveness of solar panels, the cleaner energy generation, increased awareness of energy usage, and potential property value increase.
Before installing solar panels, the household focused on improving energy efficiency through behavioural changes and home upgrades. They installed a smart thermostat to optimise heating and cooling schedules, switched to energy-efficient LED or compact fluorescent bulbs, insulated their home, ran laundry and other heavy appliances during off-peak evening hours, and lowered their water heater temperature to around 120°F. These measures helped reduce their energy consumption, lower their electricity bill, and prepare their home for the solar panel system.
In 2019, the household experienced an unusually high energy bill during the months of January and February. Upon reviewing their energy usage data, it was found that the main cause was a 25-year-old dryer. The household made efforts to reduce the use of the dryer, purchase an outdoor drying rack, and replace the washer and dryer with high-efficiency appliances. Other contributors to the high energy usage included the hot water heater, baseboard heaters, and dishwasher.
The household eventually decided to install solar panels. However, they were told that purchasing batteries to store power for use during power outages would have doubled the cost of the system. Solar panels, unfortunately, cannot be used to power a home during a power outage as they are tied into the power grid. They also do not generate power from moonlight or when they have snow on them.
Despite these limitations, the household expects to generate around $900 worth of energy per year with solar panels, with the panels paying for themselves in approximately 15 years. The solar panels should add approximately 10% to the value of their home or can be moved to a different location for relatively low labor cost.
The household's switch to solar power is a testament to the growing trend of homeowners seeking sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions. By focusing on energy efficiency and solar power, they are not only reducing their energy bills but also contributing to a cleaner environment.
- The growing trend of homeowners is embracing sustainable energy solutions, like this household on the south coast of British Columbia, who turned to renewable-energy sources to cut energy bills and boost property value.
- To prepare their home for solar panel installation, they made energy-efficient changes, such as installing a smart thermostat, switching to LED bulbs, insulating their home, and adjusting their appliance usage.
- The solar panel industry is a promising finance opportunity, as this household expects to generate around $900 worth of energy annually with their solar panels, with the system paying for itself in about 15 years.
- Sustainable living doesn't end at home; individuals can also contribute to the renewable-energy industry by reducing their energy consumption and supporting home-improvement projects that promote energy efficiency and sustainable-living practices.
