Lowest Achievable CPW Installed @10KW (rooftop)?

[sunnyguy]

I'm going to send a post to HX_Guy for some insight on local issues.

[sunnyguy]

I still haven't found any great resources on when the extra cost of $0.30/w for power optimizers is worth it vs string performance.

[sunnyguy]

That was DIY. The cost of the J boxes, conduit, breakers, wire, etc really adds up. Stuff most people don't think about until they are well into the project.

Gotcha. The micro inverters or power optimizers add $0.30-$0.40 to the cost of a string inverter system. I'm sure there have been discussions on when this is worth the extra expense so I will search for them. But if anyone has handy bookmarks please share.

Also, if anyone has any links to DIY experiences in Phoenix, please share. Permit and interconnect agreement require contractor listing and finding someone that is willing to work with a DIY may be an issue.

[sdold]

Interesting. Was that a DIY cost or pro installed? I see a similar system on gogreen for ~$7k without permits etc...

That was DIY. The cost of the J boxes, conduit, breakers, wire, etc really adds up. Stuff most people don't think about until they are well into the project.

[sunnyguy]

My 4kw system with Enphase M215s on a concrete tile roof cost $8000 for everything incl. Permit, tax and shipping. Renesola 250 watt panels, prosolar rooftrac rails. I think if you take the cost of panels and inverters and add about another 2/3 Of that to the total, it will be fairly close.

Interesting. Was that a DIY cost or pro installed? I see a similar system on gogreen for ~$7k without permits etc...

[sdold]

My 4kw system with Enphase M215s on a concrete tile roof cost $8000 for everything incl. Permit, tax and shipping. Renesola 250 watt panels, prosolar rooftrac rails. I think if you take the cost of panels and inverters and add about another 2/3 Of that to the total, it will be fairly close.

[sunnyguy]

Thanks for your reply. I will check out what is on ebay.

I realize there are a lot of things to get exactly right and a lot of options that require careful choices. But it sounds like fun to me! (Famous last words)

However since the labor is cost reduced by the tax credit there is a point at which I would say "not worth it" for a great deal on an install. What are some of the lowest CPW installs (not cringe-worthy) that people have gotten?

[DanS26]

I'm looking for a ~10KW system for residential rooftop in southern AZ. What would you say is the lowest achievable CPW installed if I do as much leg work as possible on my own?

For example, I see some 10KW kits approaching $1/W which don't include racking/mounts or misc electrical.

It seems like racking and mounting is doable for $50 per panel or ~$0.20/W

Misc electrical $1000 or $0.10/W

Permits/fees - ??

Labor - ??

Thanks

If you are willing to do EVERYTHING and willing to do the research and mind the learning curve, you should be able to build a grid tied system for less than $1/watt after tax credits. That assumes you do not need a service panel upgrade.

Forget the kits and buy quality stuff on eBay (yes, you can find quality stuff on eBay, but you have to do your homework). Before you buy anything have a plan and stick to it. Get a lot of quotes, time well spent and will save you hundreds or thousands.

You have to understand the NEC code. If you are not willing to do that then forget it. Dangerous stuff if you do not follow code. After you understand the code, then you have to talk to you local code enforcement people and get their OK on your plan. They are usually willing to help in most jurisdictions.

Tackle the project one step at a time and take your time to do quality work. Stop if you are not sure, research and ask questions.

Is your roof ready? If you have to replace your roof then $1/watt is not doable.

Good luck. A true DIY'er is not intimidated just because a project is complicated.

[sunnyguy]

I'm looking for a ~10KW system for residential rooftop in southern AZ. What would you say is the lowest achievable CPW installed if I do as much leg work as possible on my own?

For example, I see some 10KW kits approaching $1/W which don't include racking/mounts or misc electrical.

It seems like racking and mounting is doable for $50 per panel or ~$0.20/W

Misc electrical $1000 or $0.10/W

Permits/fees - ??

Labor - ??

Thanks