Expanding your solar system can be an attractive option for increasing your energy independence, especially if your energy needs have grown or if you're looking to maximize your solar investment. Here’s what you need to know about adding panels with Better Earth:
Adding Panels to an Existing Better Earth System:
Compatibility: If you already have a Better Earth solar system, we might be able to add more panels to your existing setup, enhancing your energy production.
Roof Space and Sunlight:
Space Availability: We need to ensure there's adequate space on your roof where the panels can be installed without violating fire setbacks or shading considerations.
Sunlight Exposure: Panels must be placed where they can capture enough sunlight to justify the addition.
System Size Considerations:
Incremental Expansion: If you're under Net Energy Metering (NEM) 1 or 2, adding more than 1 kW or 10% of your existing system's size might force your entire home into NEM 3, which could be less beneficial due to different compensation rates for surplus energy.
Finance Type:
Ownership: If you own your system (cash purchase or solar loan), adding panels is generally straightforward.
Lease or PPA: If your system is under a lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), adding panels usually isn't an option due to contractual restrictions. However, some lease/PPA providers might allow for an additional separate system.
Adding a Separate System:
Non-Better Earth Systems: If your current system wasn't installed by Better Earth, we can still help by installing a new, separate solar system:
Minimum Size: We adhere to a 6-panel minimum for any new system to ensure the addition provides sufficient value.
Battery Integration:
With New System: We can integrate a battery system with any new panels we add.
Existing System Limitations: If your current system is owned by another company, we cannot connect our battery to it or alter the existing setup, as this might void your warranty.
Important Considerations:
Utility and Financing Constraints: Check with your utility and finance provider. Some might have restrictions on adding to existing systems, especially under certain billing or financing arrangements.
Financial Viability: We'll help evaluate if the cost of adding panels will be offset by the savings or increased self-consumption you'll achieve.
Warranty and System Integrity: Adding to an existing system must be done in a way that doesn't compromise the warranty or performance of the original installation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I add panels if I have a lease or PPA with another company?
A: Usually not to the existing leased or PPA system. However, installing a separate system might be an option if allowed by your current provider.
Q: What if I don't have enough roof space for more panels?
A: We'll assess if alternative locations like ground mounts or different roof areas are viable without compromising efficiency or safety.
Q: Will adding panels affect my current system's warranty?
A: If we add to a Better Earth system, we aim to maintain the warranty. However, for systems from other providers, modifications could void warranties, so we keep additions separate.
Q: How do I know if adding panels is cost-effective for me?
A: We'll provide a detailed analysis considering your energy usage, potential savings, and the cost of expansion to ensure it's a financially sound decision.
Q: Can Better Earth connect a battery to my existing solar setup from another company?
A: No, for warranty and compatibility reasons, we can't connect batteries to systems we didn't install. However, we can install a new system with battery integration.
Q: What happens if my utility changes my NEM policy after I add panels?
A: We'll inform you about the implications, like moving to NEM 3, and discuss whether the addition still makes sense under new conditions.
Q: How long does it take to add panels to my system?
A: The process can vary but typically involves a site assessment, design, permitting, and installation, potentially taking a few weeks to over a month.
Conclusion
Adding solar panels to your home can be a strategic move to increase your solar benefits. Better Earth is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of system expansion, ensuring that any additions are feasible, financially beneficial, and compliant with all relevant regulations and warranties. If you're considering expanding your solar setup, reach out to us for a personalized assessment.