After promoting solar energy for over 14 years, it would have been strange not to have a solar system on my own home. Today, I'm sharing our comprehensive 4-year analysis of our 70+ panel installation in Lucas, Texas, answering the crucial question: Does installing solar panels make financial sense?

Our Unique System Design

We implemented a diverse installation approach to test different configurations:

• Ground-mounted panels facing south
• Roof-mounted panels facing south
• Roof-mounted panels facing west

This variety allows us to analyze performance across different orientations and mounting types.

Ground Mount: The Hidden Champion

Why Consider Ground-Mounted Systems?

For homeowners with available land (1+ acre), ground-mounted systems offer several advantages:

1. Optimal Orientation
   • Perfect south-facing alignment
   • Ideal tilt angle (15-20 degrees)
   • Better production per panel
2. Cost Benefits
   • No need for power optimizers or microinverters
   • No rapid shutdown requirement
   • Simpler maintenance access
3. Practical Advantages
   • Easy cleaning and maintenance
   • Better panel ventilation for improved efficiency
   • Snow removal capability during winter storms

HOA Considerations

We successfully implemented a ground-mount system in an HOA area by:

• Keeping panel height below fence line
• Using a 12-degree angle
• Strategic placement on our 1-acre lot

System Configuration Analysis

Our Setup

• Total System Size: 27.2 kW
• Three inverters for different array sections:
  1. West-facing roof panels
  2. South-facing roof panels
  3. South-facing ground mount (10 kW)

Financial Analysis: 4 Years of Data

Total Investment

• Initial Cash Price: $66,000 ($2.20/watt)
• After 30% Tax Credit: $42,000

Production Values at Different Rates

At 17¢/kWh:

• 2020 (partial): $2,918
• 2021: $6,363
• 2022: $6,720
• 2023: $6,435
• 2024 (partial): $2,082 Total Value: $24,400

At 19¢/kWh:

• 2020 (partial): $3,261
• 2021: $7,150
• 2022: $7,510
• 2023: $7,194
• 2024 (partial): $2,244 Total Value: $27,320

At 25¢/kWh:

• 2020 (partial): $4,291
• 2021: $9,365
• 2022: $9,882
• 2023: $9,466
• 2024 (partial): $2,952 Total Value: $35,956

Production Statistics

Total Production: Nearly 150,000 kWh Full Year Averages:

• 2021: 37,400 kWh
• 2022: 39,500 kWh
• 2023: 37,800 kWh

Key Performance Metrics

• Average Annual Output: 38,284 kWh
• Production per kW: 1,407 kWh/kW/year
• Expected ROI: 6.5 years
• Current Status: Year 4 of payback period

Real-World Performance Insights

1. Panel Degradation
   • Actual degradation appears less than manufacturer warranties suggest
   • Production has remained consistently strong over four years
2. System Efficiency
   • 1,407 kWh per kW installed annually
   • Excellent performance considering mixed panel orientations
   • Potential for 1,500 kWh/kW with optimal south-facing orientation
3. ROI Variables
   • Areas with higher electricity rates will see faster ROI
   • Some regions with 30¢/kWh rates could see significantly quicker payback

Technical Considerations

Panel Choice

• We opted for cost-effective Q CELL panels (425W)
• Commercial-grade silver frame panels versus popular black-on-black
• Focus on financial efficiency over aesthetics

Installation Tips

For ground mounts:

• No need to raise panels for grass maintenance
• Limited grass growth under panels
• Optional gravel installation for aesthetics
• Consider bifacial panels for increased yield

Conclusion

After four years of operation, our solar installation has proven to be a sound financial investment. With two years remaining until complete ROI and consistent production numbers exceeding expectations, the system demonstrates that properly designed solar installations can deliver significant financial benefits while providing clean energy.

The key to success lies in proper system design, understanding local conditions, and choosing the right equipment for your specific situation. Whether roof-mounted or ground-mounted, solar can be a viable investment when properly planned and executed.

Looking for solar consultation in the DFW area? Contact us for a free quote. We also offer nationwide consultation services for those looking to understand their solar options better.