[Cajundaddy]

Several family members are in the solar distribution business providing panels, batteries, and hardware to installers across the country. As a result I had 5.6kw panels installed at deep discount prices. My elect. usage is relatively low and this system should cover my usage annually with little or no excess. Since the install in November we have experienced a lot of weather so we are nowhere near typical generation but as these storms move out I expect to essentially cover my typical usage over time.

A few thoughts:

Right now panels are dirt cheap but that may change depending on the China situation who supplies 90% of the materials to build them.

Batteries are expensive currently but with recent innovations things should get less expensive soon. Wait 2 years and I expect prices to drop in a big way.

Utilities are adjusting the fair market rate for net metering so we may get pinged with really low returns on any excess residential generation.

If you live in an area with a lot of sun or have high energy costs from the utility, I think solar can make a lot of sense if purchased wisely. If you live in an area with fewer than than 50% sunny days like Seattle or Portland, it would be a tougher sell as a LOT more panels are needed to reach parity.