April 30 marked the end of our first year using the solar panels that had gone “online” on May 1, 2014. I wanted to document for our own information, as well as share with you, how we did the first year.
Solar Meter
This meter is on the shop and it measures the total amount of solar power produced. When Vince was trying to decide on size, type panels, type inverters, etc., he was calculating hoping to produce 14,000 kwh per year. We produced 13,698 . . which is pretty darned close. We had an extremly cloudy, rainy, icy winter so I was surprised we came as close to 14,000 as we did. Both of us are very happy with the results.
As far as our relationship with the power company . .
Power Used
From the power company, we purchased 8,266 kwh.
Power Sold Back
We sold back 8,328 kwh. You may remember that our contract stated we had to be a net user, meaning we had to use more than we sold back. We missed that but they’re not holding us to it and the new contract doesn’t have that language in it.
According to my math, if we produced 13,698 kwh and based on what we sent back to the power company and what we bought from the power company, we used 13,636 kwh so we sized our system pretty perfectly. Rather . . Vince and Longhorn Solar sized it perfectly. I didn’t have much to do with it.
If we had a way to store our energy, and if there was no power loss between the panels and batteries . . we’d be set . . wouldn’t need any power. But, for now, that’s not quite how it works.
Last month, our electric bill was a bit over $9. This month, it was a bit over $11. I doubt we have any that are over $40, even during the summer. Not bad . .
Doug R says
Judy: I’ve got a couple of questions: did y’all consider a windmill generator? Where do you have the panels installed? Could you give me a cost estimate for installation? And do you have a picture of the installed solar panel? Are they on the roof of the house.
Shari says
That’s amazing. I would love to do that, but I don’t believe the payback would be there for me. I just think the whole concept is really cool and I love the idea of saving energy.
Sherrill says
MAN, I’m so jealous!! Especially since I couldn’t get solar! But then I don’t have nearly the amount of stuff to run and power like you guys. 🙂
Sandi B says
I would love to have solar. But, I’m more worried about hail damage. We’re getting a new roof because of a hail storm we had on March 25. One of the cars was outside, and it’s got dings all over it. We’re not going to fix it, though, as it’s the hubs “fishing” vehicle. (He keeps all of his gear in it so he can just jump in the Kia and go!). So, I shall continue to enjoy your solar vicariously!!
Angie in SoCal says
Thank you for that report, Judy. It was interesting and glad it worked for you. Vince calculated it just right. Way to go, Vince.