Anyone here have Solarcity install solar panels?

[tom slick]

That's a different deal than I discussed with them. Are you doing a lease? Have you calculated the ROI?

They proposed a PPA agreement to me.

 

[Ducati996]

Originally Posted By: tom slick
That's a different deal than I discussed with them. Are you doing a lease? Have you calculated the ROI?

They proposed a PPA agreement to me.


It is a lease, the savings over the next 20 years project to be around $23,000.
I like knowing that as my income goes down (due to age) my electric won't be going up.

Ducati996

 

[Ducati996]

Well I signed the contract with SolarCity so the permitting process can begin. Work should start in January with the system operational by March.
After many questions and additional research I realized that when the grid goes down the solar is inoperative also.
I have several generators but the system is not really compatible with portable power.
That got me thinking about a Grid tied battery backup system that will automatically switch over and power my home and also allow the Solar to continue operation and also charge the batteries.
This system addition also enables me to use a backup generator in the event the batteries get low or I need more capacity.
Now I have a question.
I just purchased a (7 hp) Yanmar Diesel Model L70ABE-DEGMTAYC Military Surplus engine dated 2012 that has some unique features suited for long run times of up to 24 days non-stop.
It has an extended oil sump which triples the oil capacity and a spin-on oil filter which extends oil change intervals to 500 hours. There is also an intake grid heater for cold starts and the muffler outlet has a two bolt flange for a leak proof extension.
This engine is a replacement for the original L90 Yanmar that needs a rebuild.
The new smaller engine will drive a 5000 watt generator so max output will not be possible but should easily generate 3500 to 4000 watts.
This generator would be used to charge the batteries if needed and/or operate when power requirements are minimal.
I’m looking to keep my lights on in the event of a long term grid outage.
Any thoughts on my plan?


Ducati996

 

[tom slick]

I have the initial inspection scheduled for this week. If all looks good they'll probably be installing in February.

 

[Ducati996]

Just received my electric bill, the cost/kw went up $0.0201 to $0.1751 from last months $0.155 for a total increase of $18.63.
Looks like good timing for me to go Solar.
My propane also jumped $0.55 per gallon from last fill.

Ducati996