There’s a reason Indiana is not known as the “Sunshine State.” It rains here. Quite a bit. The US averages 205 days of sunshine; we Hoosiers enjoy 186 – and see 16 more days with precipitation.

Because of this, you may think that home solar panels are only truly effective for Florida, California, or Arizona residents. Here’s one case in which you will love to be proven wrong! Solar is a 50-state industry, and you can tap into the power of this renewable energy source.

Is Your Home a Good Fit for Residential Solar Panels?

The simple answer, “Yes.” But there are some situations that optimize the efficiency, output, and return-on-investment (ROI) of residential solar panels:

  • A relatively new roof. Your roof needs to be in sound condition, not a concern when you are building your forever home! The reason for this is simple: it is the “foundation” for your system.
  • The size of your roof. Generally, you’ll need about 100 square feet of roof for each kilowatt hour you will produce. The average US system runs between five and seven kilowatts.
  • A south or west-facing roof with an angle of 30 degrees. This provides an optimal surface to capture sunlight. (A range of 0 – 45 degrees is more than workable though, so don’t discount the idea of solar energy based on your roof alone.)
  • Cost. The great news is that renewable energy technology has been advancing while cost has been decreasing. In the US, the cost of solar dropped 23% in the last five years. In Indiana, the cost plunged 32%. Solar is accessible, and rebates, incentives, and favorable financing options only make it more affordable.
  • Your area. In Indiana, our electricity rates run a bit under the national average. The savings we realize on solar panels won’t be as dramatic as, say, a California homeowner would experience – simply because they’re paying so much more for their power (16.7 cents/kWh vs. 10.53 cents/kWh). That said, you will see savings, enjoy a clean, renewable, and stable source of energy, and, with solar storage solutions, have reliable power in the event of blackouts and outages.
"In the US, the cost of solar dropped 23% in the last five years. In Indiana, the cost plunged 32%."

Home Solar Panels Outlook: Sunny

The fastest growing region for solar installations is the northeastern US – home to nine-month winters! Indiana, too, is experiencing rapid growth, and with better incentives, now is the time to consider solar.

When searching for the right solutions:

  • Comparison shop. On average, you can save 10% or more when you get multiple quotes.
  • Be aware that while larger installers may seem like the dominant players, they often charge inflated prices. You may pay $2000 – $5000 more with a national corporation. Look at smaller, local businesses that can help you get a jumpstart on realizing your ROI.
  • Look at the equipment. Again, national installers tend to have fewer options. This can impact production and even the lifespan of your panels. For example, severe weather, snowstorms, wind, etc., can wreak havoc on your solar panels, so you need to ensure you have the right equipment to withstand the elements and perform efficiently.
  • Talk to your G&G team. Our unique process ensures that your visions and aspirations come to life and that you enjoy a space that you are proud to call your forever home. Part of this is making sure your home is as efficient and comfortable as possible. Residential solar panels are an investment in the future, and we are committed to working with you one-on-one to help you realize great returns. We can also integrate their installation with your design, so you never sacrifice form for function. You can have it all!

Are solar panels right for your home? We’ll make sure they are. Contact G&G Custom Homes today to talk about your energy needs and goals.

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