Thoughts on this quote

[Just Steve]

Totally understand, If it wasn't a one story roof I wouldn't be on it either. ( having bricklayers scaffold fully decked up to the gutters helps too!!)

Indeed having the right set helps for sure.

[Mike 134]

As much as I'd like to do a DIY my roof climbing days are over.

Totally understand, If it wasn't a one story roof I wouldn't be on it either. ( having bricklayers scaffold fully decked up to the gutters helps too!!)

[Just Steve]

I had quotes on mine of $2.95/w, $2.60/w, and $3.46/w This is in the Chicagoland suburbs. Being a retired electrician looks like I can install a 7.2KW system myself for $1.33/w. That includes stamped drawings. permit fees, yada yada yada. Those numbers are without credits, rebates etc.

As much as I'd like to do a DIY my roof climbing days are over.

[Mike 134]

Oh for sure this is just the opening round, was wondering what a good ball park number was.

I had quotes on mine of $2.95/w, $2.60/w, and $3.46/w This is in the Chicagoland suburbs. Being a retired electrician looks like I can install a 7.2KW system myself for $1.33/w. That includes stamped drawings. permit fees, yada yada yada. Those numbers are without credits, rebates etc.

[Just Steve]

You're at $2.98 a watt before credits $1.53 with all credits. They work on commission. Everything is negotiable. I'd respond I'd hoped for $1.00 watt after all rebates and credits. Maybe you'll get a few more dollars off maybe you won't. Doesn't hurt to ask.

Oh for sure this is just the opening round, was wondering what a good ball park number was.

[Mike 134]

You're at $2.98 a watt before credits $1.53 with all credits. They work on commission. Everything is negotiable. I'd respond I'd hoped for $1.00 watt after all rebates and credits. Maybe you'll get a few more dollars off maybe you won't. Doesn't hurt to ask.

[Just Steve]

Ok so I received some revised quotes without the battery storage but still using micro inverters because all of the companies I speak with thats all they use, that been said please see the attached and tell me what you think.
Thanks
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[Ampster]

The difference with solar is that the results of a poor buying decision can be financially painful or even devastating.

Yes that is most definitely the downside. On the upside a properly designed system in the right rate environment can provide a financial return by reducing costs. Because there is a broader spectrum of outcomes one has to use good analysis tools to make sure the optimum results are achieved. Also because the technical jargon is difficult for some to understand, there are more opportunities for unscrupulous sales people to oversell.

[SunEagle]

Steve...if you do go the backup pad mounted generator route, just be aware that the generator salesmen are just as slick and slippery as the solar salesmen.

It is their job to over sell....that is recommending in most cases a machine that is way oversized for your needs. Get to know your loads before you buy, or better yet know the loads you can and can't do without in an outage. Do you really need a machine to power all the loads in your house or can you survive with maybe only 10 critical load circuits. It will make a big difference in initial costs and ongoing running costs.

I agree. A smaller generator will also reduce your fuel consumption and save money.

[Just Steve]

Steve...if you do go the backup pad mounted generator route, just be aware that the generator salesmen are just as slick and slippery as the solar salesmen.

It is their job to over sell....that is recommending in most cases a machine that is way oversized for your needs. Get to know your loads before you buy, or better yet know the loads you can and can't do without in an outage. Do you really need a machine to power all the loads in your house or can you survive with maybe only 10 critical load circuits. It will make a big difference in initial costs and ongoing running costs.

Good tips thanks.

[DanS26]

Steve...if you do go the backup pad mounted generator route, just be aware that the generator salesmen are just as slick and slippery as the solar salesmen.

It is their job to over sell....that is recommending in most cases a machine that is way oversized for your needs. Get to know your loads before you buy, or better yet know the loads you can and can't do without in an outage. Do you really need a machine to power all the loads in your house or can you survive with maybe only 10 critical load circuits. It will make a big difference in initial costs and ongoing running costs.

[sdold]

You know the funny thing here is on my guitar forums almost never do the other members try and tell the new guy to NOT buy the guitar they are talking about.

The difference with solar is that the results of a poor buying decision can be financially painful or even devastating.

[Ampster]

You know the funny thing here is on my guitar forums almost never do the other members try and tell the new guy to NOT buy the guitar they are talking about.

Forums have unique cultures. Some are more critical than others. Some are more helpful than others. Visit several solar forums and you will see the variety of information available.

[J.P.M.]

You know the funny thing here is on my guitar forums almost never do the other members try and tell the new guy to NOT buy the guitar they are talking about.

Why do you think that is ? Just curious.

[Mike 134]

You know the funny thing here is on my guitar forums almost never do the other members try and tell the new guy to NOT buy the guitar they are talking about.

I would tell you to hold off on a Martin if you were just starting out.