Renters cannot authorize installation of a solar system; only the property owner can. You should explain your situation to the solar supplier so they can provide the best possible solution. You can also help promote solar in our area by signing up for a community solar project (click here), where you can own a share of a regional solar farm and get a reduction in your electricity bill. No need to choose one or the other – you can do both!
If your roof is in need of repair or replacement, you should get that done before installation of solar panels. If roof work is needed later, you will have to pay for some or all of the solar panels to be removed, stored, and reinstalled after the roof work is completed. Generally, you will want to install panels on roofs that are less than 10 years old. That way the life of your roof and the solar panels will be aligned. Your installer can help determine if it makes sense to replace it before installing solar panels.
Your solar system should be mostly maintenance free over its 25+ year life. Rain and snow will generally keep the panels clean and free of debris. Removing snow is not recommended since you risk damaging the panels. Since they are made of smooth tempered glass, snow slides off the panels as sunlight begins to warm the panels. Even if your internet or reporting system goes down, the panels will keep producing and your electric meter will run backwards. It is rare for the panels to stop functioning.
Your solar system should be mostly maintenance free over its 25+ year life. Rain and snow will generally keep the panels clean and free of debris. Removing snow is not recommended since you risk damaging the panels. Since they are made of smooth tempered glass, snow slides off the panels as sunlight begins to warm the panels. Even if your internet or reporting system goes down, the panels will keep producing and your electric meter will run backwards. It is rare for the panels to stop functioning.
The City of Newton’s 19 solar projects save the City and Newton Public Schools approximately $660,000 in electricity costs annually!