Climate change, energy efficiency and reducing our carbon footprint are driving aspects of home design. Solar panels are an option that many homeowners are considering. You might be surprised to learn that a French physicist began making discoveries about solar energy around 1839. The first patents for solar-powered engines were filed in the 1860’s. By 1888, inventor Edward Weston received two patents for solar cells – both in the US, long before the first Earth Day in 1970. So, what has taken so long for the solar panel revolution to take off?
Solar panels in the 1970’s were not considered a cost effective solution for many. In 1975, solar panels cost about $100 per watt. Today, a solar panel can cost as little as $0.50 a watt.
In the following decades, many homeowners were duped into believing exaggerated tales of what solar could do. That was due in large part to disreputable companies entering the fray. Hard sell, uninformed salespeople offered the moon, but failed to deliver a product that could attain the heights of their false promises.
What do homeowners need to know about solar?
Much has changed over the years. But many people still hold to the old myths about solar panels, so we decided to ask our trusted partner, Deena Vaughn, of Solar Brokers Network. A solar broker can be likened to an insurance broker, in that she acts as an intermediary between solar companies and her clients to find them the best product at the best price. We asked her how she works with an architect and solar providers to educate homeowners as to the best solar options available today.
AG – What is an architect’s role in working with you?
SBN – I am often consulted when homeowners are thinking about adding solar when they remodel, add up or add on. AplosGroup works with the homeowner to help them visualize what a project can look like, rather than what it looks like now. They walk them through the steps involved in creating the realization of their vision. AplosGroup possesses an understanding, not only of the entire construction process but of the professionals needed to lend expertise at various stages. AplosGroup has aligned with a number of reputable, skilled tradespeople they rely on as resources. Their years of experience, enable them to anticipate and facilitate the collaborative process. AplosGroup is there to hold the homeowner’s hand through all the steps along the way, which makes it easier for everyone.
AG – Are people ever reticent to put solar on their roof because they like the roofline and don’t want to alter the architectural appeal of their home?
SBN – People used to say, I don’t like the look of panels, but over the last ten years that is almost never the case. I will say, I recently had one client, in Novato, who lives in an Eichler home. They wanted solar but didn’t want it to alter the look of their home. We designed a system that placed the panels toward the back of the house, so they couldn’t be seen from the street and the homeowners were happy.
AG – What should homeowners know about the placement of solar?
SBN – Typically, the best placement for solar is south, west, or a combination of both. I appreciate the fact that, AplosGroup, in designing a second story, or an ADU, maximizes the benefit of solar for the homeowner.
AG- What general advice about solar do you have for homeowners?
SBN – Whether you believe in climate change or not, the wildfires are a problem. People who go solar can be proud to be part of the solution. Generating our own electricity not only helps our planet but is our only insurance against the ever increasing cost of PG&E. Solar can also feed a battery, keeping the lights and the refrigerator on. The IRS 26% tax credit makes solar a no brainer for most people. AplosGroup has had solar for years, and I appreciate that they know and share the benefits of solar with their clients.
If you have more questions about solar and are wondering how it might be added to your next remodeling project, please contact us today at 415-450-9504 x700 (Marin) or 707-241-4944 (Sonoma) to explore your options.