Project Overview
Solaris Renewables recently completed an innovative solar upgrade in Arlington, Massachusetts, on a Craftsman bungalow undergoing a major home addition. The homeowners, long-time Solaris customers for nearly seven years, needed to adapt their existing solar system to accommodate expanded living space, increased energy demands, and future electrification—including a new electric vehicle and heat pump installation.
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Design & Planning
During initial consultations, the clients sought to understand how their current system would integrate with the upcoming addition. Their original array, located on the front of the home, was performing exceptionally; however, the planned renovation meant that portion of the roof would be removed.
As their solar installation company, Solaris explained that a separate, new system would need to be designed to complement the existing installation. The design strategy involved reconfiguring the solar layout across multiple roof surfaces. The main, south-facing roof, with optimal sun exposure, was prioritized for the new installation.
The plan also incorporated the nearly flat rear roof—a typically less favorable orientation, yet productive during spring, summer, and early fall—to boost overall system capacity. After a detailed site evaluation and discussions regarding the homeowners’ future energy needs, the team determined that the best approach was to install an additional array that would work seamlessly with the original system.
Installation
The installation phase required close coordination with the general contractor and the electrical team. Working in an open-framing environment allowed Solaris Renewables to prewire key areas before insulation and drywall were installed, preserving the home’s aesthetic appeal.
Minor adjustments were made during the construction process, such as rerouting wiring through newly created conduits to accommodate the updated design. These proactive measures ensured that the solar equipment was integrated neatly and efficiently into the addition, minimizing disruptions and maintaining the high-quality standards Solaris is known for.
Results
Following the renovation, the new system—comprising 25 additional Maxion panels plus one matching panel from the original installation, totaling 26 panels on a 7.6-kilowatt inverter—has delivered outstanding performance. The homeowners’ previous average electric bill of approximately $207 per month has been reduced significantly, with current savings exceeding $295 monthly.
The system was built to 111% of their anticipated energy needs, and initial production has surpassed expectations: while projections estimated around 9,300 kilowatt-hours per year, the actual output reached 10,600 kilowatt-hours in the first year. These improvements not only ensure robust energy production but also align with the clients’ long-term goal of maximizing efficiency for their growing household.
Conclusion
This Arlington MA solar installation exemplifies Solaris Renewables’ consultative approach and technical expertise. By effectively merging a new solar array with an existing system, and by thoughtfully navigating the challenges of a major home addition, Solaris delivered a tailor-made solution that meets the increased energy demands of a modern, expanding family. For more information about Solaris Renewables and their comprehensive solar solutions, please visit SolarisRenewables.com or call (781) 270-6555.