It occurred to me that it is pretty easy to just throw around numbers but that it can be helpful to actually see the receipts. So here are the last 12 months or so of my power bills. Add ~$90/month for the panel payments and that is my total energy costs per month. I also got a fat tax credit on the purchase price of the system. Keep in mind I drive a plug-in hybrid (got a tax credit for that too) and I don't even remember the last time I went to the gas station. I imagine my gas budget is like a few hundred per year for car trips and such, if that.
So people have made good points about recouping the costs involved if you sell your house as well as the added costs involved when your roof needs to be replaced (although some companies do put it in your contract that they will come out and remove them and reinstall them once for a roof replacement) but for anyone who plans on living in one place for years I really do think it is a no-brainer. You can immediately lower your energy costs and get a fat tax credit. Of course, I am sure it depends on what state you are in, how much sun you get, etc etc. I would also recommend going with an established company for the panels and installation as you want companies that are likely to be around if you do need to collect on the warranty.
Anyway, I hope this is interesting/helpful for anyone considering taking the plunge!
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