subject: Steps on How to Estimate the Solar Power Cost [print this page] Steps on How to Estimate the Solar Power Cost
Do you want to experience what your neighbors are experiencing because of the benefits of solar power? Then all you have to do is get to know on how your house can qualify for this kind of alternative energy. One way of doing that is by estimating the solar power cost. If you do not know how to do this, don't worry because this article will teach you how.
Knowing Your Solar Power Cost
The first thing you need to do is estimate the electricity needs of your home. To make this possible, you need to list all your appliances with their corresponding power rating. Of course, it should be in watts. There are some labels that just list the voltage and the amperage. So, to get the watts, you have to multiply amperage by voltage to get the watts.
You also need to list the number of hours that each of your appliances is expected to operate. By multiplying the watts and the hours, you can get the watt-hours that will be used everyday.
The second step in anticipating the future. In the year 2005, the average residential rate of electricity across the United States of America ranged from 6-16 cents per kilowatt hour. The commercial and retail rates also increased 30% since the year 1999.
The third step is knowing the amount of sun your panels are going to get. Of course, this step will depend upon the kind of solar panels that you are going to purchase. If you have so many appliances at home, it would be better to purchase panels having large sizes. Bear in mind that the more appliances you have the more energy your home needs.
Since the solar panels are a bit expensive, you can just opt for the DIY ones because they help you to save more money. The result is just the same if you would buy those commercially made ones. So, the key is to obtain the right guide that will teach you the step by step process of the installation.
In opting for the DIY, your expense can be just estimated around $300 but if you are planning to buy everything you need and hire an electrician, it would take up to $15,000. See the difference?
Now that you already know the cost of solar power, you can already begin looking for the supplies and materials for the installation.
