Path-Q Solar
Can solar still be considered if my roof cannot hold enough panels for full offset?
Answer
Yes. A system does not need to offset all electricity use to be worth considering; the decision depends on the value of the partial production, project cost, future expansion options, and how remaining electricity use is billed.
Key points
- Ask for the expected annual and monthly production and the share of consumption it would serve.
- Compare the economics of a smaller rooftop system with alternatives such as efficiency improvements or other mounting locations.
- Check whether limited roof capacity results from shading, roof geometry, structural limits, or electrical constraints.
- Consider whether future loads will make the partial system more valuable.
What it depends on
- Usable roof area and solar resource
- Current and future electricity use
- System cost and financing
- Self-consumption and export treatment under the applicable billing arrangement
Risks and trade-offs
- A smaller system may have a higher cost per unit of capacity.
- The remaining electricity purchases may retain significant exposure to future prices or billing changes.
- Using a less suitable roof area to increase size may reduce production or increase maintenance.
Information you may need
- Roof and shading assessment
- Representative electricity-use history
- Partial-offset system designs and costs
- Expected treatment of on-site use and exported production
Your next step
What to do next
Request a partial-offset design and compare it with efficiency upgrades, other mounting options, and doing nothing using the same assumptions.
Path-Q
Find the right next step
Answer a few questions and we’ll narrow your options.
Loading…
SQ00876