First calculate the size of your system, multiply the wattage of your solar panel by the number of solar panels that will be installed.

Example: 325 watt Solar Panel

x 16 Panels

= 5,200 watts / 1,000 = 5.2 kilowatt system

Then calculate price/watt by dividing the total system cost by the system size.

Example: $20,000

÷ 5,200 watts

= $3.85/watt

Solar Panels- When the sun shines onto a solar panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the PV cells in the panel.

-There are many options when it comes to solar equipment.

The wattage of panels can differ but typically ranges from 265-400.

-Remember that panel wattage is used to calculate the size of your system.

Inverters- Inverters convert the sun’s rays from your panels into power your home can use.

-There are many options when it comes to inverter equipment.

Microinverter vs String Inverter vs Optimizer

-Microinverters are 1 piece of equipment installed under every panel. They are good for scenarios with shading.

-String Inverters are 1 central inverter (depending on system size) -The energy output is dependent on the panel that is performing its worst.

-Optimizers are paired with string inverters to boost performance of the system.

-Industry standard is 25 Year performance warranty for Tier 1 Manufacturers.

-When the warranty expires it doesn’t mean that the panels stop working, they may just be less efficient.

-Inverters generally have a shorter warranty.

-It is important to ask your installer about the warranties offered and coverage of installation, workmanship, and roof leaks.

-Depending on how you plan to pay for your solar system, it is important to look at the options available to you.

-Most solar companies offer in-house financing, compare rates offered by the installers.

For Example: what are their rates, fees, and monthly payments?