Home Solar Panels

Setting
up a solar panel system for the home involves a little bit of preparation.
Along with the availability of sunlight, the house itself needs to be
in an ideal location. Co-operation with the utility company is also
necessary in most areas.
The solar panels on the roof of the home must have the correct orientation.
Northern hemisphere residents must face the panels to the true south.
The angle or inclination is important as well. The angle should be equal
to the latitude of the location. This south-facing roof must not be
covered by shade. Shade on even one cell of a panel can cut energy production
by half.
Weather is also an important factor. Find the meteorological data for
the area and base production needs off of the worse month to ensure
there will be enough energy year-round. Look at the average household
energy demand on the utility bills to determine the needs.
If the goal is to run the house totally independent of the power system
a storage system will be needed to power the house during the night
and on stormy days. Storage systems can be expensive and complicated.
It is recommended that a professional with solar experience be contacted
for the setup of one of these systems. Most homes using solar power
are still connected to the power grid. The excess power produced can
even be sold back to the utility company. Contact the local power company
to ensure compatible equipment is used and standards are met.