In Part 1, I go through the pros and cons of a grid-tied solar system in detail. We recently had a 9.1kw solar system installed, and even though I am not a solar expert, I learned a lot in the process! Hopefully other can benefit from my experience.
The ugly truth: With a grid-tie system, you cannot use your solar panels in a power outage!
I will break even on my cost in about 8.5 years. The panels have a 25 year warranty.
The grid tied inverter ($1200) has a 10 year warranty. Of course the inverter may last 15 or 20 years. Either way, excepting for possibly replacing the inverter, after 8.5 years this system will be earning almost $2000 per year.
