Cashflow proposal by solar company - which panel option should I choose?

What is the cost of electric power from your utility? What is their Net Metering rate plan?

In major cities, presently the 1 year net metering plans with low monthly minimum fees can make solar pretty cost effective.

However, in rural areas and new with some major utilities they are reducing the amount of solar subsidies (raising minimum monthly billing from $4 per month to $10 per month and some places $48 to even a possible $96 per month). Also, instead of "crediting" you retail power rates ($0.12 to $0.30+ per kWH) to wholesale power rates ($0.06 or less for actual generated power costs). It all depends. This is a highly political issue and things are changing.

In general, if you have not done any major conservation measures yet for your home (insulation, double pane windows, more insulation, energy star appliances, LED lighting, possible HVAC upgrades)--I would suggest conservation first. It is usually cheaper to conserve power than to buy or generate your own power.

Also note that the Federal Tax credit ends soon (unless extended). When the system is turned on, and how much credit you can use (if you cannot use the full credit the first year, and the credit is not extended, the balance may be lost).

Do not look at the solar power system adding value to your home--It may for some buyers, and others it may reduce the value of the home. In any case, at best the solar power system has a declining value over time. If you do not plan on living/owning the home for 10+ years--You may want to rethink solar (also, you may have to replace the roof if getting old, before installing panels).

Don't get me wrong--GT solar can make economic sense--But you have to understand the utility billing plan to see if it is right for you (time of use billing is required in California--In some cases, TOU rates can increase your utility bill rather than reduce it. Be careful.

-Bill

The estimates look reasonable (I am not in the solar business).

If you use around 600 kWH per month (around 600-1,000 kWH per month is national average, depending on where you live, have natural gas/air conditioning/etc.)--That is not too bad. You may be able to cut that by 1/2 (if you have never done much conservation efforts before). If the house is newer with lots of insulation, weather stripping, double pane windows, and non-electric heating/hot water--Then you may have less you can do to conserve.

Energy usage is a highly personal set of

Picking a brand--I won't suggest anything (I picked BP Solar--Large well funded company with years of experience--My first panels lasted about 6 years and were 100% replaced--And shortly thereafter, BP shut down their solar subsidiary--Although, I think BP is still supporting their warranty).

-Bill