A bill was the first thing. An example of a gut-punch. That month, the electric company’s printer and AC were both working extra hours. I gazed at the sum before turning my attention to the sun. “You have a lot of energy. I need residential solar help.
In those days, solar seemed like a pipe dream. Rich people use it on their contemporary homes with sliding glass walls or weekend cabins. However, my curiosity overcame me. I performed some research. I also discovered that it’s not that difficult. It involves some arithmetic, silicon, and sunshine.
Most of the time, individuals are unaware of how much space they have on their roof because they aren’t using it at all. simply sitting there. Lazy dog, baking in the sun. However, if you add some panels, it becomes handy. All of a sudden, you are more than just a homeowner. Sometimes you help, sometimes you take, and sometimes you’re the uncomfortable relative of the grid.
It’s not as easy as just putting them on and turning a switch, of course. You must first confirm if your roof is capable of supporting it. Is it powerful? Is there any shade? Does it have a Pringles-like shape? All of that is relevant.
The paperwork comes next. Licenses. approvals. examinations. It’s a part of the ride, but it’s not really exciting. Imagine it as the line for the best rollercoaster. You complain, yet you still go ahead and do it.
Putting it in place? Quick. You’re having coffee one morning when a crew is outside flinging panels around like enormous black cards by lunchtime. With just a few cables and a gleaming inverter box, it comes to life.
You feel like a wizard when you see your energy meter move backward for the first time. Power is something you’re summoning out of thin air. Your electric bill leaves town as soon as the sun appears. It becomes quieter, but not completely.
Let’s talk about money now. Yes, the upfront expense appears frightening. However, it’s not like purchasing a car and then seeing its value plummet as soon as you park it. Solar makes a profit. Utility company credits are helpful. Tax breaks also apply. Additionally, your panels begin operating for free if they last long enough, which is frequently the case.
Unless a tree decides to moonwalk onto your roof, maintenance is not a problem. If not, you won’t even notice the panels. Like a supporting role in a sitcom, they carry out their duties in silence. Constantly there. hardly ever dramatic.
“Would you do it again?” people ask. Each and every time. Particularly when my power continues to function normally while the neighbor’s power goes off. That self-satisfied flashlight enters through the glass. It feels fantastic. Excellent.
Solar isn’t flawless. However, your toaster isn’t either, and you continue to use it. Why not let the sun to pay some bills while it’s at it, if it’s willing to shine anyhow?