[Joeaksa]

Originally Posted by biosurfer1

Joe, do you have APS or Salt River? Also, are you on a time of use rate plan or a tiered plan? One of my customers wanted to do solar on their Sacramento plant but it just doesn't make financial sense because they are in SMUD's territory, not PG&E. They also have a plants in Mesa and Phoenix and have had solar for years too and it really pays off for them. Unfortunately so much rides on which electrical company you have as to whether it will make sense or not.

I am using APS, have no choice in my area.

Went with Solar City. Solar Panels, Solar Power Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency They had several plans but finally took one where I paid zero down and its a 20 year lease. Right now I pay them about $84 a month for the panels. This ramps up every year but so will the cost for electricity, so IMHO its a wash. They cover all maintenance and repairs for the 20 years at no cost to me, everything is covered totally. After the 20 years (panels usually last a good 30 years) the system is free to the homeowner.

Last year this time my utility bill was just over $400 in August. Neighbor this year paid $440. Mine was $230 with the panels and once you factor in the lease it was still a good $100 cheaper per month than last year and over $125 cheaper than my neighbor's utility bill.

Worth it for me and when it comes time to sell the house which one would you choose? One with utilities 25-30% less than the others I hope!