Installing solar panels can be the perfect way to save money and contribute to a better tomorrow for planet Earth. But is the initial investment in solar energy worth it? And what does the installation process look like? To understand the benefits of solar power and what it takes to install your own panels, check out our guide below.

Environmental Impact

Solar energy doesn’t pollute the water or produce greenhouse gasses, unlike other forms of energy. The only resource you need to produce solar energy is the sun and some water for maintenance. Additionally, solar energy is completely renewable. As long as the sun shines, you’ll continue to receive energy.

Saved Money

By generating your own power with solar panels, you’ll save money on your electricity bill. Over time, this will result in massive amounts of savings. Keep in mind that locations that receive more sun have the potential to generate more energy, meaning higher savings.

Job Generation

Solar panels don’t just generate energy — they also generate jobs. The development, installation, and maintenance of solar panels require a wide range of specialists. By investing in solar energy, you’re helping to stimulate the economy and provide jobs to builders and technicians in the solar industry.

How to Plan Your Solar Installation

Installing solar panels isn’t necessarily easy, but it’s very worthwhile in the long run. Here’s a rundown of the steps you’ll need to begin your journey toward solar energy generation.

Inspect Your Home

If you have an older home, it might not be ready for solar panel installation. To ensure your home is eligible, hire an engineer or contractor to evaluate your space. Just make sure that the professional you hire has the correct credentials to inspect your house.

In some cases, you may need to upgrade your home’s electrical system before you can begin a solar installation.

Secure Required Permits

Before you can install your solar panels, you’ll need to fill out some necessary paperwork first. You’ll need a grid connection and solar installation agreement with your utility provider, electrical and building permits for your area, and applications for federal and local incentives to reduce the price of solar energy.

Collect Necessary Materials

The materials required for installation may vary depending on where you live. That said, components that most every solar system should have includes:

• Inverters
• Mounting equipment
• Solar panels
• Wiring

Make sure to do your due diligence researching different solar panel brands and their subsequent material requirements. Keep in mind you may need additional components if you’re trying to make a camper van or RV setup.

Plan Your Wiring

The next step in creating your solar panel installation plan is to outline your wiring route. Determine whether you’re going to wire your solar panels in series or in parallel, and research the differences in wiring paths necessary for residential and off-grid systems.

While this is a basic outline of how to prepare your home for solar panel installation, check out SolarTap’s guide on installing solar panels for a more detailed breakdown of the planning and installation process. Use the infographic below as a visual guide to take you step-by-step through the procedure.

[Infographic from - Solartap.com]