The Fixie Chick blog

Friday, September 19, 2008

Solar Site Analysis

Happy Friday! I'd like to start by apologizing to the herRochester blog readers for my inconsistent blogging lately. Some of you may already know that I have been having some medical "issues" for the past three years. Along with having flu-like symptoms pretty much daily, I am also experiencing a considerable amount of pain which is affecting by ability to work. So, if you don't hear from me from time to time, it's not because I don't have anything to say:), it's simply because I may not be feeling well. I appreciate your understanding.

I wanted to share the most interesting appointment I've had in a while with you. Today, I had a "Solar Energy Analysis" done on my home in Webster. We have all been reading about the need for energy independence and how solar plays an important roll in the sustainable and renewable energy market. I remember reading an article about the country Germany, and how most residential buildings are solar powered and not only do homeowners incur ZERO electricity costs, but they are actually paid by the utility for energy they "over-produce" and sell. I think that is pretty smart and I want to know how I can pay zero dollars for electricity AND make money on excess energy the sun can produce and I can sell!

So, that led me to have a NYSERDA certified company out to my home to perform what is called a "Solar Site Analysis".
The whole process took about two hours. The first step was to set up a small device known as the "solar pathfinder" on the south side of my home, (where I would install a solar device). This pathfinder is basically a sundial, the auditor positioned the solar pathfinder and then photographed the data presented on the pathfinder. (See image above) As I understand it, this somehow measures the shade in this particular area of my property. The shade will determine the loss of solar power and different times of the day and months of the year.

Now, the photograph is digitally inserted into the auditors computer program, that data is processed and calculated , and turned into a "solar site analysis report". Once the report has been completed the auditor takes the report data and sends it to a NYSERDA (New York State Energy Smart) program that is able to calculate a "solar electric system costs and savings" report.
This report features estimated annual results along with a net system cost and calculates state and federal government incentives. Ultimately, the final printed report shows all of the above plus the total cost for the solar system and the estimated return on investment.

Now, I have to get my neighbors to believe that solar panels are a lovely and attractive upgrade to the south side of my home. Wish me luck:)

Please remember to tune into Home&Yard Radio with the Fixie Chick tomorrow morning at 10:00am. We are broadcasting live on 950am and I will be talking about my solar site analysis experience. You can also call in with questions or just to say hello. 222-6397.
Tomorrow's show topic also includes creative ways to keep critters from entering your home and as always, the Green Tip of the week. Don't forget get that each week I give a free gift to the first caller who says they are a herRochester blog reader (don't worry, that's all you have to say).

Have a great weekend!
-The Fixie Chick

posted by Fixie Chick at 12:48 PM