Can You Install Solar Panels Yourself In California
However there s plenty you can do yourself sizing your system picking components mounting and installing the solar panels inverter s safety disconnects and so on.
Can you install solar panels yourself in california. A combination of high average sun exposure expensive utility rates the solar tax credit and the state s net metering law means homeowners can get an excellent return by installing solar panels on their homes. The mandate which comes from the california energy commission cec will take effect in 2020 making solar power even more common in a state that already boasts about half the country s solar generating capacity. A handyman with enough skills should be able to design size and install a residential solar system. Last fact checked on january 23 2020 by catherine lane.
It isn t to say that you can t install solar panels yourself but if you are thinking about taking on the task here are some things you may want to consider before getting in over your head. Install a solar inverter do it yourself solar panel installation can be less expensive but your options are limited according to data from the energysage solar marketplace the average gross cost of going solar for homeowners meaning your costs before incentives and rebates are applied is 17 760. Earlier this month california became the first state to require all new homes to have solar power. Do it yourself solar for 4 000 is a slamdunk in my book.
If you do install the system yourself be sure to read our diy solar installation tips make sure to hire a licensed electrician for a safety inspection or for just helping with wiring challenges electricians are licensed and can pull permits with your local building office. However we generally recommend hiring a certified professional to do the wiring and metering. Especially in states like florida arizona california utah texas and oklahoma to name a few. The more you can yourself the less expensive.
You can find information on the web about building diy solar panels but we don t recommend it because the panels would not be approved for permitting. This act also provides that homeowners associations hoas cannot place unreasonable restrictions on homeowners who want to install solar panels on their homes. California is one of the best places in the nation to install solar panels.