Can I Run My House Entirely on Solar?
The impending fall season may have you questioning just how far a solar system setup can realistically go. Is it possible for a house to run wholly on solar energy? Solar Bear of Tampa takes a look at what it takes to meet a house’s entire energy needs.
If you can provide for even half of your home’s electrical needs using solar energy, you are already making a significant economic and ecological impact. This amount reduces greenhouse emissions while also earning you financial incentives and free electricity through net metering.
But is it possible to rely solely on solar energy for your home? It’s definitely doable, though first, you will need to consider the following factors:
- How much energy you use
- Whether your home has space for a solar setup
- Specific weather patterns or shading obstacles
- And, whether to be on or off the grid system.
Electrical usage is the most critical variable that can affect your decision. During an energy audit consultation, installers will examine recent electricity bills, weather and climate patterns in your area, and your family’s energy needs. Here in Florida, a solar system will produce more electricity in the summer than in the winter, so it’s important to gather data to determine the best system fit.
A traditional roof-mounted solar system must be installed in a bright, sunny area that isn’t affected by trees or shading. If that is impossible, but you have available ground space, you may want to consider a ground-mounted solar system. This type of setup can be positioned in an ideal direction and can tilt for optimal solar production.
Both on and off-grid systems can help you achieve a fully solar-powered home. The difference between the two systems is where any excess solar will be stored and how electricity is accessed should you lose power. With an on-grid or grid-tied system, any surplus electricity produced is not stored but rather sent to the power grid in exchange for utility credits towards your bills. This process is called net metering. Off-grid systems use battery storage (that must be bought separately) to store excess energy. This option is totally energy independent, but users must be conscious of their electrical usage, because there is no way to draw extra electricity from the grid.
If you want to learn more about the most efficient solar panel system for your needs, schedule a free estimate with Solar Bear of Tampa. With the help of our professional team, making these improvements could be easier than you think. Call us at (727) 741-7442 today!
