Today was solar install day! It’s been a long time coming. I’ve dreamed of getting solar panels since I was a kid. Al Gore’s publicity on climate change, what was called global warming at the time, in the 90’s profoundly influenced my views growing up. I remember learning about renewal energy in science class and thinking: that’s going to be me. I’ve always known I’ve wanted to do my best for the earth. Choosing to go solar was simple, actually getting it done was so much more complicated.
What wasn’t mentioned or taught was how expensive it was. Money makes it so much more complicated to do the right thing. The system is already in place for the unsustainable. Hiring engineers and electricians and installers and managing permits and inspections with the city is overwhelming and expensive. When money was tight, it was easier to go with the flow. Enjoying what little splurges we could instead of stretching things thinner to afford the loans.
Choosing To Go Solar
Stars truly aligned though. We came in contact with a representative for Titan Solar. He explained to us that the government will rebate 26% of what it costs. He showed us what it would cost to install a system that will completely eliminate our on grid electricity usage. With approval for their financing, they also give us a check that covers our first year of payments. And those payments are about what our electricity bill runs every month. For added peace of mind, there’s a 25 year warranty. We couldn’t find a reason to say no.
They handle everything. We just have to be present whenever on site work is being done. The first appointment was a site survey to take measurements for the engineers. They drew up plans and submitted the necessary paperwork to the city. After the permits were approved they scheduled us for install.
The installers arrived at 8 this morning. For the first few hours of the day there was banging and power tools going off. Everything was being cut and custom fit to our house. After a lunch break, the panels and final touches were put in place by 5pm.
Next, we will have another appointment soon for the final inspection.
Finally things finish up with what’s called “permission to operate.” That’s when the power gives their okay to flip the switch and go live.
Installation Day
The process has been quick and pleasant. I like that the company operates and employs locally. It’s large enough to have more than 30 thousand projects under it’s belt. A portion of proceeds go towards listed charities.
Every employee we’ve encountered has been friendly and professional.
There’s a user friendly “install portal” where I can follow where in the process we are a la Dominoe’s pizza tracker.
Again, we haven’t found a reason to say nay.
Here’s a little about the system itself. It’s an 8000W system using a SolarEdge inverter with 20 400 watt Q Cell panels. From what I’ve looked at online (specs we need, about the inverter, about the panels) it seems like good, accurate equipment. And that’s it!
I’m really happy to have reached this point. Choosing to go solar feels like I’ve “leveled up” in my adulthood. And it’s been a long time since I’ve felt accomplished as an adult.
This has been a continuation of “Eco Week” here on my blog celebrating going solar. Have you seen my “Eco Fashion” tips and How to be Earth Friendly All Year?
