Solar Panels

Installing solar panels is not nearly as easy as you might think. When you read about them on the Internet the company selling the product says we show up and screw them to the roof, and you are done. Well that is really step 100. Step one is finding out if you have to have any permits from the city you live in. The next step is finding out if any state or local rebates are offered, what they are, and how to qualify. This is a really great link for that. Another thing to consider is will your property taxes increase? The value of the home will be raised by the addition, will what you save in electricity be worth it to your bottom line in what you will pay in increased taxes?
Then you will need to meet with the Solar company at your home to do a site survey this lets you know what size system you can get, how much it will be, and if there are any trees or other structures that you need to remove for the panels to operate. This may be the kicker, you may not be able to cut down the tree 1 because it is in your neighbors yard, or because there are city ordinances protecting it. Depending on where you live, and if there are any city ordinances about cutting down any type of tree you may have a big decision on your hands. Some trees are protected species, and some trees are just really big. Some cities may require you to get a dispensation to cut down a large or protected tree. Others might require you to plant a new tree to replace the one you have cut down. If you have limited space in your yard you may end up back in the same spot you are now in a few years with shade on your roof. Some cities may allow you to pay a fine for the tree that is calculated by size, and some cities will let you cut it down because it is your tree, in your yard, and you do not want it anymore. I really suggest you check it out with the city first, you do not want to have a big fine you were not expecting creep up on you. Now if the tree is in a neighbor’s yard you may want to learn how to bake some really good cookies, before you approach the topic. Once you are sure you are in the clear to remove the tree you then need to get at least three quotes. A certified Aborist is really no necessary for a job like this, the tree is coming down, it does not matter if it is done all that properly. That being said if the tree is large you need an experienced crew. By crew I mean more than 1 guy. The tree we have in our yard is about 40 feet high, and will take I would say at least four guys to get it out. There should be ropes and a pully system, and the branches should be lowered to the ground to minimize possible harm to anyone on the ground. Now then once that is complete you can schedule the Solar company to come out. To get your final inspection. I am still in the stages of trying to get our very large tree down. I will keep you updated with what I find.