If you already know how solar panels work and you want to add solar panels to your house, you’re certainly not alone: the United States currently has enough solar capacity to power 23.3 million average homes.
One of the main reasons people are making the switch to solar energy is because of the financial advantages. Along with a federal solar tax credit, solar technology is becoming increasingly affordable, dropping by more than 60% from 2010 to 2021. Plus, converting your home to solar power could also save you money on energy costs.
With so many benefits of solar energy, it’s no wonder millions of Americans are converting their homes to solar power.
Installing solar panels requires a few essential steps, and we’re here to simplify the process and walk you through them all.
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Ready to get started right now? Learn how you can get a FREE Solar quote and sign up for Gexa’s solar plans today.
Find a Professional Solar Installer
If you are converting to solar energy in your home with a Gexa Energy electricity plan, Gexa will get you in touch with a certified, licensed solar installer to walk you through every step of the process. Your installer will assist in finding the right solar technology setup for your home’s specific needs.
Check Whether Your Home Is Ready for Solar Installation
You should assess these two pieces of criteria to see if your home is suitable before getting started with solar:
Is your rooftop suitable? While solar power systems for homes can work in virtually all climates, some rooftops may not support solar installation. Your roof’s age, slope, and directional orientation may impact whether solar panels are appropriate. A solar installer can help you determine if your roof is compatible with solar panels.
What is your home’s overall solar potential? Your installer can also help you assess your home’s overall potential for solar power generation. With mapping technology, your installer can help you find out how your home’s location and shade may affect your solar power.
Additionally, you should consider your financial situation, including whether you own your home and can take advantage of solar tax credits, and whether you should buy solar panels upfront or finance them.
Decide Your Payment Method
Thankfully, you have several options when it comes to paying for your home’s solar products: buying, financing, or leasing. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each method:
Buying Upfront: You’ll reap the most long-term monetary benefits with an upfront payment. However, you’ll need enough cash to pay for it all right away.
Financing: With a loan, you’ll pay for the solar panels in monthly installments, with you ultimately owning the system.
Leasing: A lease means someone else owns the solar panels you use, and you buy the electricity from them at a monthly, discounted rate. However, you won’t get access to all solar incentives or save as much money over time.
If you need more help determining what choice is best for you, we recommend talking to a professional financial advisor.
Coordinate Permits and Inspections
Before your installer finalizes your contract and installs your solar panels, they will obtain the necessary permits and schedule on-site inspections. Your installer will also begin filling out paperwork for connecting your solar panels to the electrical grid.
Get Your System Installed
Once inspections are complete and paperwork is approved, you will schedule a date and time for installing solar panels on your house. Generally, a handful of solar technicians, installers, and engineers will be present to handle all aspects of installation.
Most solar installations are complete within one day. Then, once your utility gives permission, you can turn on your system and enjoy your solar-powered home!
FAQs About Switching to Solar Energy
Can I install my own solar panels?
Gexa Energy recommends converting your home to solar with a qualified, certified professional. While consumer-friendly, plug-and-play systems are in development, they are currently not available for purchase and not recommended if you are not an expert.
What products and supplies do I need?
Most residential solar power systems consist of multiple photovoltaic (PV) panels, inverters, and performance-monitoring equipment. Some installments include a battery for storing extra energy. You will purchase, finance, or lease these products from your installer.
Can I switch energy suppliers if I have solar panels?
In most cases, you can change your electric company even if you have solar panels installed. This is especially true for most Texas homeowners who live in an area with deregulated energy.
Make the Switch to Solar with Gexa Energy
Gexa Energy is proud to contribute to cleaner air with 100% renewable energy plans* for homeowners. Shop for electricity plans today and join our mission for a cleaner, greener Texas.
If you already know how solar panels work and you want to add solar panels to your house, you’re certainly not alone: the United States currently has enough solar capacity to power 23.3 million average homes.
