How to add more solar panels
It is possible that you have cut down or eliminated your power bill if you’ve taken to solar. However, you may need to install solar panels on an existing system. Your solar panel system might be too small or your consumption of electricity may have increased since installing.
It’s not the same process when adding panels to your existing system, as you did when you first began looking for the solar system. Here are some essential points to remember while you research your possibilities.
Considerations to make when installing solar panels on an already established system
Energy needs
What number of solar panels do you need? This is the most important, because it will impact both the layout of your system as well as the price of the additional component.
The number of panels you’ll need for your system will depend on a variety of factors. These include your electricity bill as well as your location, equipment, and the design the system. Barnes Solar installers should have access to your electricity bill, and also be able to estimate the amount of panels you’ll need to have for your specific situation. This guide will assist you to calculate how many panels you’ll require.
New panels need space
Are you able to install an additional solar panel on the roof? There may not be enough space to install more solar panels if your roof is constrained. Ground mount systems are simpler to add on because most homeowners have ample sun-filled land.
Photovoltaic panels mounted to the ground are solar panels that are installed at ground level. Ground-mounted systems work similarly to roof solar systems , in that panels expose themselves to light which is converted into electrical energy by solar cells . They are utilized to produce electricity from a single building and, in the case of solar farms, communities.
However, you don’t have to give up because there isn’t enough roof space to install additional panels. It’s possible to install additional solar arrays on existing structures like carports or sheds.
Upgrade and compatibility of solar panels
What panels were utilized in the initial installation? Do any of the components need to be replaced? Solar panel will produce electricity for a period of 25 years. After that, you may see significant drops in production. It is unlikely that you will need to replace any panels that were part of the initial system. Barnes Solar installer will examine all components, including wiring and racking.
If possible, make sure to install the same type of panel when adding new panels. It will guarantee that the panel is compatible visually and also has the same power outputs as your other panels. Do not attempt to install the same panels if you are unable to do so. In this case, your array might be damaged.
Inverter replacement
Is the inverter big enough to handle more panels? Your inverter may need to be replaced based on the amount of additional capacity you’ll add to your system. The output of your panels is used to determine how Barnes Solar installer will determine the size of the central unit. Because of the loss of energy in conversion of your panels are ‘direct current (DC) electricity could have lower power ratings than their inverter. Your solar panel setup could produce more electricity if have more panels than it is able to handle.
If your solar panel includes microinverters, adding projects is easier. This is not the case with string-inverter or power optimizers. It is not necessary to worry about the inverter’s capacity problems since microinverters are installed at each panel. You can instead include additional microinverters on the panels.
Panels to be installed by an installer
Does your original installer do add-on projects? It’s best to get in touch with them to inquire whether they’re available to do the work. They’ll be more familiar with your home and the system than you are and can add additional panels to their work.
This may not be an option if your previous installer was unprofessional or has left the business. Although it is possible to find a new company to install your panels, it may be more difficult to find one. Installers who do not own the installation won’t undertake any add-on work. They don’t want warranties that conflict on the entire installation or the size of work isn’t enough. Many installation companies do not want to settle disputes regarding who’s accountable for what component or part of their system.
Barnes Solar set a minimum system size to maximize their profits. Another option is to install a few panels. This could result in less profit margins than a residential standard installation. Barnes Solar focuses their efforts on larger projects depending on their capacity and installation schedule.
Interconnection and permitting
Further permits or documents are required for the installation of additional panels on your property. It will depend on the number of panels you’re adding and whether an inverter is needed. Also, your local permitting needs. You’ll need to submit a second interconnection request to your utility company if you intend to add more than two power units to the system.
Installers who are part of an add-on project should be aware of any permit and interconnection requirements. They can also assist in document these documents as part of the total cost.
Incentive Programs
It’s possible you won’t be eligible to receive the same incentives, such as rebates or tax credits when you add additional modules to your existing system. Certain incentives can only be claimed once for a property or one per person.
Performance-based-incentives (PBIs) can be a bit complicated when it comes to add-on projects. The amount of incentive is dependent on the amount of power your system produces. This could cause problems if you have a new or upgraded inverter. It is necessary to update the interconnection application.
Speak to a Barnes Solar solar installer regarding the incentives you may qualify for on your solar additions. Additionally, consult an tax professional for any questions about tax credits.
How much does it cost to expand an existing solar array?
It is not cheaper to add panels to an existing system, but it is cheaper to put them in. Your expansion will likely be less than the original system, which means it will cost more per Watt. A larger system is likely to cost less than one that is smaller and therefore the cost per watt for your new system is likely to be higher.
Because a lot of the work that is required by the Barnes Solar installer is thought of as “soft” costs, which includes overhead, permits and labor as well as permit costs. Most likely, a Barnes Solar installer will have to finish the same tasks as the installation they did originally. This includes planning work for the crew as well as needing permits.
While the federal 26% tax credit and other incentives may be possible to be used to expand systems, it is possible that the higher cost per watt that comes with expanding the system will not yield a huge financial return.
What does the process of adding additional panels to your home look like?
If you’re eligible, you will follow the same procedure that you did when you signed up to the Barnes Solar solar system. This means you’ll have two solar energy systems on your roof, which you’ll be charged in separate installments.
- We can be reached at [number].
- A custom-designed system design will be provided to you, which you are able to examine.
- Once you have approved the design After you approve the design, our technicians will set an appointment at your home to install the extra panels. This is an independent system that will be compatible with your existing solar power system. There will be two bills per system.
- We’ll arrange for the local municipality to grant permission and examine the system.
- We will collaborate with your utility until you are permitted to use with the extra panels.
Should you use the same company that installed your original system?
Although you don’t necessarily need to work with the same company that installed your original system to install it, it’s recommended to get a quote. They’ll already be familiar with the equipment and will be able to access the system for monitoring. There is no risk of being unable to claim the warranty.
Although a different company may add an expansion on the existing system, this will not typically void the warranty that was originally issued. However, it is an excellent idea.
The process of getting quotes on a system extension is similar to a normal home solar installation. The same questions should be asked and receive multiple estimates.
Barnes Solar allows you to add solar panels to your existing system.
It’s important to shop around for any kind of solar project, regardless of how large or small. Signing up for an account on the Barnes Solar Solar Marketplace allows you to get several quotes and evaluate solar prices. You can also add solar panels to an existing system by marking this on your profile. Also, give details regarding the system (equipment and system size) to ensure that installers give the most competitive quotes.
