“Your meter is running backwards.” It sounds like a school yard taunt unless you’ve just installed a larger than life solar array. That’s exactly what we’ve done and that’s exactly what we heard when a Pepco employee swapped our old meter with a bi-directional one. Apparently our old meter was already bi-directional – it was running backwards after all – but the new models are more reliable so now we’re doing the “We’re Selling Power to Pepco” dance.
The first question everyone asks is, “What did it cost?” The short answer is that after just five years, we expect to have recouped our money and will be $28 in the black. For the long answer, click the “Cost” tab at the top of this page. For data on our monthly electricity use and production, see the ‘Power Stats’ page. Watch for more posts and a new look as I learn about using WordPress and all its features.
Nice! I’m Monique’s friend, Kate, and she sent me your link. Now I’m having solar panel envy . . . .
Hope you’ll visit my blog – http://www.futurebending.com
That’s a riot. “Panel Envy’ is the title of my next blog entry. I met a guy who has an array that tracks the sun. Now I have severe panel envy. You will too when you see it. I got some photos and hope to edit and post it next week.
Hi Karen, if you’ve gotten my email yet (just sent it) I think the question about solar has been asnwered….Ann C posted info about your blog to the list-serve yesterday…so the word is out! I look forward to taking a closer look at your info..thanks for doing this.
AB
Thanks Ann!
Karen- sorry to hear it doesn’t work during outages, I thought for sure I had a place to store my beer.
Phill
Phill,
I will gladly store your beer. I have an opener that works even when the power goes out.
We live a couple blocks from you and have admired those panels on our walks. Thanks for all the information! It’s making us reconsider–we’d assumed that solar would involve too much upfront outlay, and take too many years to pay off, but maybe not.
Ben,
Drop by sometime if you want a closer look. Thanks for the comment!
Karen
May take you up on that offer–thanks. -B
First the door to nowhere – now the solar panels that ate Silver Spring! It’s too cool! I love it! And I love the website too. I thought of you guys when the power went out in the ‘hood – did you ever lose power? Or did the panels kick in? With PEPCO on such a downward spiral, next thing you know it’s going to be like that Twilight Zone episode when all the neighbors try to bust into the one guy’s bomb shelter!
I would so much like to do something like this. Maybe after college sticker shock subsides… Soul-ar Power to the People!
Thanks Tom. No we didn’t have power during the storm. That would require a battery back up system which is large, expensive and reduces the overall efficiency of the system. According to our GroSolar project manager, a battery backup reduces output to the point that it really isn’t worth the up front cost and the loss of efficiency unless you live in an area where blackouts are more frequent. Fortunately, a working gas fireplace, hot water heater and stovetop mitigated the pain of our three nights in the dark.
I have been asked do I want to lease or do I buy the panels. Obviously with lease, there is the case of advances in technology that is anticipated to be swapped out on the next design cycle. Any thoughts?
In California you have a different situation because, according to Dan, California allows for leasing arrangements so a firm can install the panels without an upfront costs or even a minimal payment from you. I’m not sure when/if you take ownership.
Congrats! Nice photo as well. Soak up those Maryland rays.
Thanks! I’m looking forward to warmer weather and warmer rays.
Thanks so much. You’re my first reader! Or at least first to leave a comment. I appreciate it.
Karen
Welcome to the Solar Generation! Congratulations to you and your family. We hope the neighbors take note and follow your lead.