Solaris Renewables completed a solar panel installation for a growing family in West Newbury, Massachusetts, on their extensively renovated cape home. The project combined solar power with future-proofing for electrification, including heat pumps and electric vehicles (EVs), addressing the client’s energy needs while maximizing the home’s solar potential. With a focus on efficiency and sustainability, the installation was tailored to integrate seamlessly with the family’s energy goals.
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Client’s Goals and Initial Consultation
The client, an environmentally conscious family with a technical background, was seeking a solar solution that could handle not just their current energy consumption but also future upgrades. With plans to add heat pumps and EV chargers, they wanted a system that would provide significant energy savings, while also preparing for their growing electricity needs. Their goal was to maximize their solar energy potential, aiming to cover as much of their electricity usage as possible with the system.
The client also had a clear interest in understanding the technical aspects of the solar installation, wanting a solution that would not only be energy-efficient but also adaptable to future expansions. They wanted a system that could grow with their needs while ensuring that it met their long-term goals.
Site Conditions and System Design
The site had some challenges, including large oak trees that created shading and multiple roof surfaces with skylights that could interfere with the panel layout. Despite these obstacles, the roof faced almost directly south, making it a prime candidate for solar energy capture.
To meet the client’s goals, Solaris designed a solar system that included 34 high-efficiency 370-watt panels on a 10-kilowatt inverter, totaling a 12.6-kilowatt system. This system was capable of generating 148% of their previous year’s energy usage, accounting for the additional energy demand from the upcoming heat pumps and EVs. The system was designed to maximize the available roof space while working around the obstructions, ensuring the most efficient use of sunlight.
Installation Process and Challenges
The installation process was somewhat challenging due to the home’s roof configuration and existing conditions. The team had to navigate multiple roof surfaces, ensuring the panels were positioned efficiently and aesthetically. The presence of skylights and trees created additional considerations for panel placement.
One particular challenge was the home’s electrical meter, which had been placed in a wooden box, violating the National Electrical Code that requires three feet of clearance around meters. While the inspector allowed the setup to remain in place, it could have been a potential obstacle that needed addressing.
Additionally, because the home was a cape, the team had to contend with limited access to attic spaces for wire management. Despite these challenges, the project team worked closely with the homeowner to design and execute a solution that met both the aesthetic and technical requirements of the project.
Results and Benefits
Upon completion, the solar system exceeded the homeowner’s expectations. The system now produces nearly 23,000 kilowatt hours annually, providing about 90% of the home’s electricity needs. The family has already seen a substantial savings in their energy bills, cutting costs by approximately $704 per month. The system is expected to save the family nearly $500,000 over the next 25 years.
After installation, the homeowner reached out to Solaris for further consultation regarding potential tree removal to optimize the system’s output. Using updated solar analysis, Solaris was able to model the impact of removing trees, offering the client a clear understanding of how it could improve energy production. This allows the client to make informed decisions on whether to invest in additional energy savings by clearing some of the shaded areas on the property.
Conclusion
The solar installation in West Newbury serves as a great example of how solar energy can be customized to meet a growing family’s energy needs. Despite challenges with shading and roof design, Solaris Renewables was able to deliver a robust system that not only meets current energy demands but also accommodates future growth. The flexibility of the system, combined with efficient design and smart technology integration, ensures long-term savings and sustainability for the homeowner.
For more information on solar energy solutions, visit Solaris Renewables or call 781-270-6555.