Excellent! Your videos/descriptions and BS-free explanations about all the elements of this project have been extremely helpful and are greatly appreciated.
That was a remarkable job Dave , well done. 1 other positive thing if I may add with your DIY installation you have also managed to reduce environmental footprint by having less people on-site. You have inspired me to copy your project but unfortunately we have a terrible weather here in the UK. You’re a truly a friend of Earth.
Environmental footprint? Now I've heard it all. I own an off-grid solar company. I'm in and out and charge less to do a better job (I'm an electrician) than these hyped installers. With 3 guys and two trucks on site any impact might be a few ruts....lol
@@coler154 ask me if I give a shit! Less environmental impact than a taco bell fart! I don't install solar because I give a crap about a carbon foot print...I install it so others aren't ripped off by public utilities and the criminal Federal Government!
Thank you! Don't worry, I track everything. I'll have future follow ups on the status. For instance the year two month by month production was much more different than I expected, I'm looking forward to giving people actual data to compare to.
Nicely done. The cheapest quote I got in Ohio for a roof install was $32,000 before tax incentives. Which to me I would prefer a ground unit for two reasons. 1). It would be easier to clean and 2). I don't trust anything that pounds on my roof (which could potentially cause a leak).
Such a great player!! I'm not even close to do a project like this on my life, but I can see when someone do his best. Congrats for your super professional work building and taking note of this project. Again, congrats man. You're great!
Amazing details on all fronts. Thank you!! I sent your video link to my son who just asked me to do a break down cost of a home solar array which saved me hours of perusing the Internet as you have already done in great depth. Nice video and excellent outcome!! Liked and subscribed.
Good info. I worked security at various home improvement stores and many people showed up all summer picking up things here and there, and when a lot of them were done, they told me that I would never see them again because they just should have just hired somebody to do their project. So, I think people should take a look at how much they will save, and figure out whether if is better to work on the project, or if it is better for them to just pick up extra hours at work, or spend less on something else until the extra expense is covered, Build a small scale version and see how much fun or frustration you have while doing so.
this was very helpful as i'm looking into going solar. i'm on an electric co-op and my electric bill is averaging close to 500.00/m, going up so much every year.
Good video!!! If you have the space wand don’t mind the shade, ground mounts are always better… It is hotter on a roof and solar panels are around 40% more efficient on a ground mount (cool shaded air behind each panel makes the electronics much happier). Ground mounted solar is far easier to clean (wash, clear snow, etc). And if and when it comes time to replace a roof, not having to pay to remove and reinstall solar panels can save you several grand. Fish love shade, livestock love shade. Shaded water doesn’t grow as much algae. Some garden veggies like shade. Shaded dog run… etc… There are tons of uses for the extra shade, and it doesn’t have to be wasted on gravel (which is fine if you don’t have anything else to shade). Ground mounts are always better… If you have space for them.
The problem with ground mounts for us City folk is that annoying neighbors complain about how it looks. Only rooftop is allowed in my area unless it’s not visible
Thank you for this video. We just received a quote of $25K. My husband and I want solar but the price was too much. I will view the videos we would like to do this project ourselves but it seems very complex. Thank you again for the simplicity and clarity of your video.
Excellent, clear, concise video. I didn't feel you had any agenda (like selling us on solar) but provided normal folks with some real costs and break even points for installing solar. I would really like to know how your ground mount system compares with this same system roof mounted. I would imagine the vast majority of residential systems are roof mounted.
Excellent presentation and perfect timing for me since I'm currently working on the design of an almost identical system. I'm preparing permit application documents. This is very helpful. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful! Although every permit process is going to be a little different, I made a video on my permit process that may be helpful. You can watch it here: th-cam.com/video/imiEYDHLG4A/w-d-xo.html
Fantastic effort, breakdown and information on putting this together. I have heard that putting these systems together are not that difficult. Almost a plug and play! Then the fact that so many startup solar installations companies are jumping into the game with minimal experience, knowledge or expertise is scary. Labor at the simplest level is so overrated in this day and age.
Unfortunately there are a lot of companies out there delivering poor results for people. With some research and help from your local inspector, it's not that difficult.
Impressive! Well done video. There are guys that will spend more than that on a Harley, a boat, a muscle car, etc-etc-etc and still say solar costs too much. DIY home solar is one of the best hobbies (or way of life) you can have. I got three arrays.
much cheaper and easier if you can weld. The whole thing can be built with angle iron. The kind of welding required to build such structures can be mastered in an a afternoon actually.
great video, it seems unirack is usually cheaper than ironridge.... looks like maybe ready rack is very competitive too. For those looking at roof mount, study your fire codes ...you need to keep the panels 3' lower than ridge (2015 code) and if using 2018 code it's 18" (But you need to red the code details).... Yes you have to use whatever year edition of code your county has adopted, you can no jump to the newer code....
3 years ago!! Recent purchase of panels was $97 for 500 watt bifacial solar panels. So I only need 20 panels for 20KW However the shipping was going to cost as much as buying 4 extra panels at which point shipping was free. Panels prices sre dropping like a rock!! I’m mounting them on the roof ( lack of space in my yard) And mounting them vertically that gains me as much as 30% over rated yield. I’ll mount 2 of the extra panels for increased output on cloudy days. (2 will go in the attic to replace any damaged in the future). My racking costs amounted to $23 per panel. Wiring costs will be lower, since I not need 50 feet. But wire has gone up significantly. I have yet to decide is I want a back up battery or not. The Tesla version 3 includes a built in inverter but it’s $8400. For now I’ll leave it off. If the Electric company goes further away from net metering it will quickly pay for itself. I am looking at a bi-directional EV CHARGER TO USE THE BATTERY in my Tesla to act in that capacity. Then I can use the DC power directly and only use the inverter when I’m in surplus generational capacity. Typical power loss with inverters is around 5%!
Wow way cheaper than I thought. Solar salesman came by yesterday and for a system twice the size on this video it cost 4 times as much as the quote you received. Going to shop around more or learn to install myself. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Great breakdown and video. However, I realized this video was made 3 years ago. I first realized that when you gave the price for some items that I know the current price for. So taking inflation into account I believe this system would be significantly higher in 2024.
You did not include your savings for cheaper electricity and the added savings for paying off the unit 3.6 years earlier, which I believe brings your cost down on the DIY side.
*a fun fact* : with the racking system cost of 2500$ only, here in india you can install 5Kw ongrid system. With 5KW of panels and a 5Kw ongrid inverter. for large projects, the costing for mono perc bifacial comes at around 0.4$ per watt plus inverter and structure cost.
Great video - I think you guys pay less for electricity than we do in the UK. I don't know when this video was made but we have just had shocking rises in electricity prices and have been told there are more to come. The return on investment period has literally halved although solar panels have somehow mysteriously risen in price too. I bought 10 used panels that came out at the equivalent of 90 bucks a piece - they were selling for 60 bucks a couple of months ago. My whole 2.4kw/h system has cost me about 2200 us dollars. I'm not finished yet but nearly there. Thanks again for a great video with no bs.
Inflation seems to be hitting the whole world, I guess it is going to improve the payback for solar in general. I'm glad the content was helpful. Thanks!
5500 saved, you can buy your wife a nice golden necklace or make a big vaccation. i bet your family would like that too. i respect a man doing stuff by him self. Thhumps uop
@@fishhuntadventure sometimes you save money on things so you could buy the things that you want vacation time with your family is definitely something you would want on average
I appreciate your video, it gave me some of the information I want. The hybrid structure is likely what most people want. What most people don't want is a high pressure salesman pumping up a profit margin and a commission.
Great video Dave. Can you provide annual production data since install? I installed an 18.6 Kw system in 2019 using tracking arrays and thought it would be interesting to compare.
I have a video showing the monthly and annual production of my first year. You can also download the spreadsheet from that video. Here it is: th-cam.com/video/BatTeSq05rU/w-d-xo.html
$1.25 / W. if you get 4 hours sun on average / day. after 20 years. 20 * 365 * 4 = 29,200 hours in first 20 years. you will get 29 kWh / installed watt. 1.25 / 29 = about 4.3 cents per kwh. good deal!
Blown away great job.... We DIY and ours paid off 18yrs faster than the contractor. You got a good bid. St. louis they way over charge. THey want 14k just to remove and reinstalled on the roof (hail damage new roof)
I had a company quote SIXTY THOUSAND DOLLARS for a ground mounted array. As soon as he said that I kicked him out.. I was expecting $20k. Solar companies in Florida be trying to rip you off.
I have found that quotes can very significantly. Getting three to five quotes will help you negotiate the best price if you are having someone else install your system. My quotes ranged from $24k to $40k for the same size system.
It's hard to judge because filming adds a significant amount of time to the activity. I think at one point I estimated about 40hours. Here is an estimate someone else posted: @jstaffordii • 1 month ago I calculated mine at $100/hr. I tracked my time from permitting application process to final inspection. My 9.25kw roof mount grid tied system used 50 man hours of labor. So it was roughly $5000 of DIY labor to add to my $8600 install cost of equipment and tooling needs before tax rebate 4 years ago. But that only matters if you actually earn $100/hr in your off duty from work hours. Solar is a hobby that you invest your better way of life.
How do you know? I created a new calculator that takes the drop in production into account. You can watch that video here: th-cam.com/video/YjKPHuc8T38/w-d-xo.html
Great job and thanks for explaining the costs. Here in Mexico solar panels are 130 usd for a Longi 635 watt and in China the same panel is 82 usd. In Mexico we do not have tax benefits.
I can't install the panels by myself, so who should I hire to install them for me and save money at the same time? And thanks in advance for making this video in details for us! I appreciate it!
There are two free resources I can recommend: The first is EnergyPal, they will help you determine if solar is right for you and set you up with the lowest cost installation that meets your needs. If you follow my link to sign up you will get a $500 gift card when your install is complete! (They only service some areas of the US and Canada): energypal.com/everyday-dave Or, Try Energy Sage - I used Energy Sage to research solar and receive multiple competing quotes for my original install. (Helps you find a local installer that is reputable) : www.energysage.com/p/everydaydave/
I wish some more simple step by step process for DIY existed to let people start with bi-facial solar panels used as a fence that we can grow as we add more and more panels. That way I can start small and add on little by little as I learn.
Keep in mind that was the best of all the quotes I received. Also, I spent some time negotiating it down. I used EnergySage to get quotes from multiple suppliers. Here is a link: www.energysage.com/p/everydaydave/ You could also try EnergyPal another free resource for finding installers. Here is there link: energypal.com/everyday-dave
I don't know how much prices changed over a year, but we are getting a 10kW solar system here in Lithuania, and installers are offering them for 7k-9k euros with installation (including 21% VAT). We also get an incentive of €323 per installed kW from the government, which leaves cheapest 10kW offer total cost at €7k - €3.2k= ~€3.8k. So it should take only about 3 years for us for the system to pay off all the cost.
I spent months researching DIY kits for my home and then I went downtown to get the permits and I was told the homeowners are not allowed in our county to install system that has to be done by a professional
Sorry to hear that, you might consider moving.. : ) I did a video on getting a permit, my recommendation was to make two phone calls before you start anything, one to the utility company and one to the building department, you can watch that video here: th-cam.com/video/imiEYDHLG4A/w-d-xo.html
I live in Ohio and I got quote from solar company for installation of grid tie solar panels 3KW system. Total of $12,400 before 26% of federal tax credit. This seems to be too expensive. What do you think?
The best way to make sure you are getting a reasonable proposal is to compare to several others. When I was considering having my system installed, I got quotes from 5 different companies. The swing in price between vendors was on on the order of thousands of dollars. Once you are confident you have the best price, make sure the payback period meets your targets. Hope that helps!
What would you recommend for a Two bedroom home solar setup and the amount of panels needed? I live in the marshall Islands and I would be off grid completely? I watched your other video where did a step by step on how to install a solar system. Very informative and easy to follow. Thanks man.
Thanks! Glad it was helpful. Off grid requires a significant increase in the system size as well as the addition of batteries. You can get some help on where to get started sizing your array here: th-cam.com/video/rbFnZqA0GCI/w-d-xo.html
Good question. I didn't track it directly and there was a lot of added time for setting up video for every part of the install, but I would estimate about 40hours for the install. Thanks!
Your compounded rate of return on this system is 5.7% over 25 years assuming 2.4% annual cost of electricity increase and $0 system scrap value. Over past 30 years the stock market returned 9.9% on average. To make solar have 9.9% annual return it would have to cost $4500 total or $0.48/watt. Doable in some parts of the world.
Why did you get the optimizers ground mount system doesn't require rapid shutdown units. Diodes in the panels do the same thing as an optimizer unless you wanted to see the power output of each panel. I like the comparison I know solar contractors in the past were quoting extremely high rates up to $8 a watt. I have seen some with battery storage up to 100k. Like most contractors can always find someone else to do it cheaper.
I didn't have very much knowledge about solar systems when I installed my first system. Here is a video I did later on this exact topic: th-cam.com/video/nC7i_GSrGlk/w-d-xo.html
Dave, Thanks for the great videos. I'm planning my installation now in Indiana and have been using your videos for a guide. You mentioned that your utility pays you $.04/Kwh for surplus. I didn't see any surplus credits in your calculations. Didn't you ever send surplus energy to the grid?
Thanks! I'm glad it's been helpful. I certainly have surplus on given days, and I have had a couple of months that were net zero, but no surplus for a monthly billing cycle. I wasn't confident in the economic viability of the activity when I started it, in retrospect, I could have made the system a little larger without a significant impact to the payback time period.
@@ProjectsWithDave Thanks for your reply. I'm grateful for your time. Seems the bottom line is how much power you are producing and multiplying that by the kwh rate to figure ROI. How much I can expect my system to produce is proving hard to pin down. My research results on this aspect isn't exactly black and white. That's why I became interested in your analysis. I live in Lafayette, Indiana and I thought I heard you live in Ohio. So, geographically I think our sun exposures are somewhat similar. And, you seem accurate and trustworthy with your figures. Therefore, I feel comfortable using your results and analysis as a basis for myself. I live in a production home neighborhood, which made HOA approval a little tricky. But, because I'm doing a ground array in my backyard and only 14 panels, I managed to get approved. Will be starting the project within a month or so. Thanks again for the great videos and your time. Best wishes.
@@ProjectsWithDave I am wrestling with the size of the system and I am looking at a 20kW system and using the summer excess production to heat my house electrically during the winter. I am using nearly 800 gallons of propane per year right now.
One of my goals was to maximize the per panel output, to minimize the structure size and quantity of optimizers. These were the highest output panels I could get at the time.
Thanks for all your work. I'm curious about your experiencing with shipping times (which I imagine are even more challenging now). I'm considering following your lead, but I would need to finish it by mid May, so I have 2 months to order, receive, and install. I'm curious if you feel like that's too aggressive of a timeline, both to order and receive and in the case that something breaks or we figure out we need something else during installation. I could pick it back up again next year, but if I make the investment now, I'd love to catch the summer's sun. Also, I don't have much more than very basic tools at the moment. Do you have a sense for cost of tools you needed that may not have been included in your budget? Also, a timing question...I see you feel like you spent about 40 hours. What do you think is the best number of people to be involved to make it go quickly? I would likely have two, but could be three or four people total. Finally...I see that APA does the ground screws that you used, but also does the ballast baskets filled with rocks. Did you have any thought process in deciding between those types? Thanks so much!
I think two months is a very aggressive timeline. It's possible, but I wouldn't attempt it if I had to guarantee it would be done. Shipping delays, permitting and rental schedules can all delay things multiple weeks. I have not tried the ballast methods but I'm sure they would work fine as well. I tried to include everything in my budget so the only extra expenses would be tractor rental and household tools like shovels, volt meter etc. Hope that helps.
good job on the install, looks great. I think the power optimizers are overkill since it doesn't look like your setup would get any shade? also those mounting poles look kind of weak. are they the same strength as say fence posts? any concerns of them bending out of shape in high winds?
Any business case should include the time value of money so the cost of money whether to borrow or what you could earn risk-free should be included to discount future savings or costs. In other words a dollar today is worth more than the promise of a dollar 5 years from now.
I had several companies come in both have quoted me $50-65K for the same system you have but no disconnect from the grid BOX , the 65k was with a wall battery . 65000 divided by 360 months (30 years ) it be $180 per month just to pay off the panels , I’ve told them hey I don’t think we are there yet to offer ppl this nonsense . I’d hire someone for 25k NOOOO PROBLEM
Installers are asking absurd amounts for installing solar systems. I would not pay someone to install a system that took more than 7 years to pay off. I recommend a couple of options for getting more reasonable quotes in the description. I would keep looking.
Thanks for the information! This reaffirms my decision to buy new old stock panels. Even buying "wholesale" the price is still too high for me. I definitely want that racking system you used. Do you have a link to how you made that 3pt post hole digger attachment?
I glad I could provide some reference information to help you make your decision. I don't have a video on making the attachment. I just measured the post hole digger and provided the materials and dimensions to a friend to machine and weld up for me.
@@ProjectsWithDave Thanks! Once I get them, I am sure I can figure something out. Again thank you for being so transparent. I wish more were honest about that kind of stuff.. It really helps people understand costs, plan their budget and show them how much "fat" can be in installed goods..
I have very hard ground and I was able to install some very large screw anchors using a cheap harbor freight gas auger WITH a $60 torque multiplier (lug wrench gearbox). Had to make adapters of course. The limit was the twisting strength of the anchor shafts. May bake more sense for most to rent a machine like the producer used, unless you frequently need to auger random holes in your life lol.
The EV charging capability on the inverter is of interest to me because I cannot find anything else on line that has this feature. The description for the inverter doesn't mention a DC to DC converter. Have you confirmed that it can charge an EV?
It does not do DC - DC charging, but it will charge directly from solar. Here is more content I did on the charger: th-cam.com/video/U2ilH8yOi7A/w-d-xo.html
An excellent description of a solar power grid-tied installation. Do you have a similar one on off-grid applications, especially one that gets into the whole issue of batteries?
Here is the one for sizing your solar array: drive.google.com/file/d/1pbkrexpzooKA3wIDZtH_6cI4dHyuE6_n/view?usp=sharing Here is the one for Roof VS Ground each worksheet is on a separate tab: drive.google.com/file/d/1aOJMbFIs4yawxO4_2jnfvhL9w6S-Pap_/view?usp=sharing
I was quite surprised to see EV vehicle charge port. Diging bit deeper it looked like a 240 AC charge not DC charge (as it's much more expensive to do proper DC-DC)
SolarEdge doesn't give a lot of detail on how it's solar boost works during charging. I show the cable install and a little more detail on the topic in this video: th-cam.com/video/U2ilH8yOi7A/w-d-xo.html
I think DIY solar is far less intimidating if you have the space to ground mount. Be interesting to see what the DIY prices and quotes are today mid 2024!
Clear,clean,precise, without Bull... thank you and good luck
Thanks! Glad it was helpful.
@@ProjectsWithDave Is your setup resistant to emp's? If not, how would you protect it? Hail resistance to what size?
Finally someone who explains it well
You did a fantastic job explaining how you did the work and what the result was. This is the best video I have seen on this topic. Congratulations!
Thanks! I appreciate the feedback!
Agreed! Only thing missing is the increase in production rates over time. You're producing more than $1488 in electricity every year.
@@gunnymeyer good point as electric costs go up payoff is faster
Excellent! Your videos/descriptions and BS-free explanations about all the elements of this project have been extremely helpful and are greatly appreciated.
Great to hear! Thanks!
Great video! Straight to the point, no unnecessary fluff and talking. Thanks!
That was a remarkable job Dave , well done. 1 other positive thing if I may add with your DIY installation you have also managed to reduce environmental footprint by having less people on-site. You have inspired me to copy your project but unfortunately we have a terrible weather here in the UK. You’re a truly a friend of Earth.
Thanks!
Environmental footprint? Now I've heard it all. I own an off-grid solar company. I'm in and out and charge less to do a better job (I'm an electrician) than these hyped installers. With 3 guys and two trucks on site any impact might be a few ruts....lol
@@tomscott7292 those two trucks of yours use gasoline which does have an impact.
@@coler154 ask me if I give a shit! Less environmental impact than a taco bell fart! I don't install solar because I give a crap about a carbon foot print...I install it so others aren't ripped off by public utilities and the criminal Federal Government!
Excellent work! It would be so awesome to have a followup in 10 years to see how it worked out. Congrats. Very impressive
Thank you! Don't worry, I track everything. I'll have future follow ups on the status. For instance the year two month by month production was much more different than I expected, I'm looking forward to giving people actual data to compare to.
Nicely done. The cheapest quote I got in Ohio for a roof install was $32,000 before tax incentives. Which to me I would prefer a ground unit for two reasons. 1). It would be easier to clean and 2). I don't trust anything that pounds on my roof (which could potentially cause a leak).
I agree, I summarized my reasons for going ground mount in this video: th-cam.com/video/w-iS_8e7n60/w-d-xo.html
Such a great player!! I'm not even close to do a project like this on my life, but I can see when someone do his best. Congrats for your super professional work building and taking note of this project. Again, congrats man. You're great!
Thank you very much!
Amazing details on all fronts. Thank you!! I sent your video link to my son who just asked me to do a break down cost of a home solar array which saved me hours of perusing the Internet as you have already done in great depth. Nice video and excellent outcome!! Liked and subscribed.
Awesome! Thank you!
The best video on TH-cam so honest and clear without wasting our time
Thank you so much
You're welcome!
Good info. I worked security at various home improvement stores and many people showed up all summer picking up things here and there, and when a lot of them were done, they told me that I would never see them again because they just should have just hired somebody to do their project. So, I think people should take a look at how much they will save, and figure out whether if is better to work on the project, or if it is better for them to just pick up extra hours at work, or spend less on something else until the extra expense is covered, Build a small scale version and see how much fun or frustration you have while doing so.
It's not a small undertaking, starting with a small system that is expandable is a good way to get started.
this was very helpful as i'm looking into going solar. i'm on an electric co-op and my electric bill is averaging close to 500.00/m, going up so much every year.
Good video!!!
If you have the space wand don’t mind the shade, ground mounts are always better… It is hotter on a roof and solar panels are around 40% more efficient on a ground mount (cool shaded air behind each panel makes the electronics much happier). Ground mounted solar is far easier to clean (wash, clear snow, etc). And if and when it comes time to replace a roof, not having to pay to remove and reinstall solar panels can save you several grand.
Fish love shade, livestock love shade. Shaded water doesn’t grow as much algae. Some garden veggies like shade. Shaded dog run… etc… There are tons of uses for the extra shade, and it doesn’t have to be wasted on gravel (which is fine if you don’t have anything else to shade).
Ground mounts are always better… If you have space for them.
The problem with ground mounts for us City folk is that annoying neighbors complain about how it looks. Only rooftop is allowed in my area unless it’s not visible
DIY feels VERY intimidating, but I will watch more of your videos instead of giving up. Thank you for this one; my first.
You can do it!
Thank you for this video. We just received a quote of $25K. My husband and I want solar but the price was too much. I will view the videos we would like to do this project ourselves but it seems very complex. Thank you again for the simplicity and clarity of your video.
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent, clear, concise video. I didn't feel you had any agenda (like selling us on solar) but provided normal folks with some real costs and break even points for installing solar. I would really like to know how your ground mount system compares with this same system roof mounted. I would imagine the vast majority of residential systems are roof mounted.
I'm glad it was helpful. I may help a friend do a roof mount system in the near future, if so, I'll post the information on this channel.
Excellent presentation and perfect timing for me since I'm currently working on the design of an almost identical system. I'm preparing permit application documents. This is very helpful. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful! Although every permit process is going to be a little different, I made a video on my permit process that may be helpful. You can watch it here: th-cam.com/video/imiEYDHLG4A/w-d-xo.html
Fantastic effort, breakdown and information on putting this together. I have heard that putting these systems together are not that difficult. Almost a plug and play! Then the fact that so many startup solar installations companies are jumping into the game with minimal experience, knowledge or expertise is scary. Labor at the simplest level is so overrated in this day and age.
Unfortunately there are a lot of companies out there delivering poor results for people. With some research and help from your local inspector, it's not that difficult.
Impressive! Well done video. There are guys that will spend more than that on a Harley, a boat, a muscle car, etc-etc-etc and still say solar costs too much. DIY home solar is one of the best hobbies (or way of life) you can have. I got three arrays.
Well said!
much cheaper and easier if you can weld. The whole thing can be built with angle iron. The kind of welding required to build such structures can be mastered in an a afternoon actually.
That's great if you live in a location that doesn't require engineering drawings that show 90mph wind capability.
great video, it seems unirack is usually cheaper than ironridge.... looks like maybe ready rack is very competitive too. For those looking at roof mount, study your fire codes ...you need to keep the panels 3' lower than ridge (2015 code) and if using 2018 code it's 18" (But you need to red the code details).... Yes you have to use whatever year edition of code your county has adopted, you can no jump to the newer code....
3 years ago!! Recent purchase of panels was $97 for 500 watt bifacial solar panels. So I only need 20 panels for 20KW However the shipping was going to cost as much as buying 4 extra panels at which point shipping was free.
Panels prices sre dropping like a rock!!
I’m mounting them on the roof ( lack of space in my yard)
And mounting them vertically that gains me as much as 30% over rated yield.
I’ll mount 2 of the extra panels for increased output on cloudy days. (2 will go in the attic to replace any damaged in the future).
My racking costs amounted to $23 per panel. Wiring costs will be lower, since I not need 50 feet. But wire has gone up significantly.
I have yet to decide is I want a back up battery or not.
The Tesla version 3 includes a built in inverter but it’s $8400. For now I’ll leave it off. If the Electric company goes further away from net metering it will quickly pay for itself.
I am looking at a bi-directional EV CHARGER TO USE THE BATTERY in my Tesla to act in that capacity. Then I can use the DC power directly and only use the inverter when I’m in surplus generational capacity. Typical power loss with inverters is around 5%!
Wow way cheaper than I thought. Solar salesman came by yesterday and for a system twice the size on this video it cost 4 times as much as the quote you received. Going to shop around more or learn to install myself. Thanks for sharing your experience.
If you want help getting a proposal from an independent advisor at no cost to you, try EnergyPal: energypal.com/everyday-dave
Really appreciate your concise explanation. You did a great job, here and with your system. God Bless You and your family.
Thanks, you too!
Great breakdown and video. However, I realized this video was made 3 years ago. I first realized that when you gave the price for some items that I know the current price for. So taking inflation into account I believe this system would be significantly higher in 2024.
Best DIY video on solar I've seen, thanks
Thanks! I'm glad it was helpful!
You did not include your savings for cheaper electricity and the added savings for paying off the unit 3.6 years earlier, which I believe brings your cost down on the DIY side.
*a fun fact* :
with the racking system cost of 2500$ only, here in india you can install 5Kw ongrid system. With 5KW of panels and a 5Kw ongrid inverter.
for large projects, the costing for mono perc bifacial comes at around 0.4$ per watt plus inverter and structure cost.
Thanks for the reference info!
Great job and thanks for the information!! With electrical prices we will most likely be following your tutorials. God bless
Thanks! For sure, the price of electricity is making solar more cost effective.
Great video - I think you guys pay less for electricity than we do in the UK. I don't know when this video was made but we have just had shocking rises in electricity prices and have been told there are more to come. The return on investment period has literally halved although solar panels have somehow mysteriously risen in price too. I bought 10 used panels that came out at the equivalent of 90 bucks a piece - they were selling for 60 bucks a couple of months ago. My whole 2.4kw/h system has cost me about 2200 us dollars. I'm not finished yet but nearly there. Thanks again for a great video with no bs.
Inflation seems to be hitting the whole world, I guess it is going to improve the payback for solar in general. I'm glad the content was helpful. Thanks!
Really well done video! Right to the point, well explained and illustrated, very informative 10 out of 10. Thanks for the information.
5500 saved, you can buy your wife a nice golden necklace or make a big vaccation. i bet your family would like that too. i respect a man doing stuff by him self. Thhumps uop
If one spends what they save have they gained anything? No.
They’ve merely been an average consumer.
@@fishhuntadventure sometimes you save money on things so you could buy the things that you want vacation time with your family is definitely something you would want on average
Fast forward to today, installers are now quoting 3x that amount while solar panel prices have dropped. DIY is the way to go in 2024.
Great vid! No smoke, mirrors, lies, or assumptive errors!
Excellent work.Your vedios are very basic and easy to understand.
I appreciate your video, it gave me some of the information I want. The hybrid structure is likely what most people want. What most people don't want is a high pressure salesman pumping up a profit margin and a commission.
Glad it was helpful!
This is so helpful, would love to see a follow-up video where you do a similar comparison but adding battery storage
Thanks, you can see a battery storage update here: th-cam.com/video/BzMAW8kW0CU/w-d-xo.html
Your setup is great, well done. I kind of want to do a video but I don't want to draw attention to my setup.
Thanks! I understand not wanting to draw attention, I had the same concerns. If only it wasn't risky to help people. 🙂
Excellent presentation., Valuable information, clear, concise, and to the point Thank you!
Congratulations from Germany, Thanks
Thank you very much!
Thank you for the great info! I'm looking at doing a system very close to this.
Glad it was helpful!
Major like for this cost breakdown. Could you add some links for tools you would recommend to buy before a DIY install (you showed photo of some)
Thanks! There are links to some of the items I went over in the description below the video.
Excellent detailed information!
Glad it was helpful!
Great video Dave. Can you provide annual production data since install? I installed an 18.6 Kw system in 2019 using tracking arrays and thought it would be interesting to compare.
I have a video showing the monthly and annual production of my first year. You can also download the spreadsheet from that video. Here it is: th-cam.com/video/BatTeSq05rU/w-d-xo.html
Jim, what type of tracking array are you using?
$1.25 / W. if you get 4 hours sun on average / day. after 20 years. 20 * 365 * 4 = 29,200 hours in first 20 years. you will get 29 kWh / installed watt. 1.25 / 29 = about 4.3 cents per kwh. good deal!
Wow. Talk about a perfectly done video...
Great job explaining and breaking down the cost of your system. Thank you for sharing.
Glad it was helpful!
Okay ... now to learn everything about electricity. I can offord that, and I can do it ! Thank you.
You can do it!
utube university
Blown away great job.... We DIY and ours paid off 18yrs faster than the contractor. You got a good bid. St. louis they way over charge. THey want 14k just to remove and reinstalled on the roof (hail damage new roof)
Nice! DIY makes all the difference if you want a reasonable payback time period.
I had a company quote SIXTY THOUSAND DOLLARS for a ground mounted array. As soon as he said that I kicked him out.. I was expecting $20k. Solar companies in Florida be trying to rip you off.
I have found that quotes can very significantly. Getting three to five quotes will help you negotiate the best price if you are having someone else install your system. My quotes ranged from $24k to $40k for the same size system.
Dave, you did a great job at breaking down the costs for us. How about the number of man hours in labor? Because after all - time is money. Thanks!
It's hard to judge because filming adds a significant amount of time to the activity. I think at one point I estimated about 40hours.
Here is an estimate someone else posted:
@jstaffordii
• 1 month ago
I calculated mine at $100/hr. I tracked my time from permitting application process to final inspection. My 9.25kw roof mount grid tied system used 50 man hours of labor. So it was roughly $5000 of DIY labor to add to my $8600 install cost of equipment and tooling needs before tax rebate 4 years ago. But that only matters if you actually earn $100/hr in your off duty from work hours. Solar is a hobby that you invest your better way of life.
Excellent video !!!! Thank you !!!! I am shopping for a system and this was very useful.
Glad it was helpful!
Nice job with detail explanation. Thank you
Appreciate you sharing your experience. Just got the same size Ready Rack quote for $5,361.00 from Matt Reid. Prices really go up! 🤣
Yes, the price of steel has gone up significantly.
Amazing! 👏 i am now 100% going to do a ground install. Looks fun!
You can do it!
You did a great job. Be aware that the production WILL fall off each year. Ask me how I know.
How do you know?
I created a new calculator that takes the drop in production into account. You can watch that video here: th-cam.com/video/YjKPHuc8T38/w-d-xo.html
Great job and thanks for explaining the costs. Here in Mexico solar panels are 130 usd for a Longi 635 watt and in China the same panel is 82 usd. In Mexico we do not have tax benefits.
That's not necessarily a bad thing. Every tax benefit has to be paid for by someone.
I can't install the panels by myself, so who should I hire to install them for me and save money at the same time? And thanks in advance for making this video in details for us! I appreciate it!
There are two free resources I can recommend:
The first is EnergyPal, they will help you determine if solar is right for you and set you up with the lowest cost installation that meets your needs. If you follow my link to sign up you will get a $500 gift card when your install is complete! (They only service some areas of the US and Canada): energypal.com/everyday-dave
Or, Try Energy Sage - I used Energy Sage to research solar and receive multiple competing quotes for my original install. (Helps you find a local installer that is reputable) : www.energysage.com/p/everydaydave/
I wish some more simple step by step process for DIY existed to let people start with bi-facial solar panels used as a fence that we can grow as we add more and more panels.
That way I can start small and add on little by little as I learn.
You can do that if you use micro inverters.
Actually the professional install price you got sounds very reasonable…my quotes were all in the 30k+ range
Keep in mind that was the best of all the quotes I received. Also, I spent some time negotiating it down. I used EnergySage to get quotes from multiple suppliers. Here is a link: www.energysage.com/p/everydaydave/
You could also try EnergyPal another free resource for finding installers. Here is there link: energypal.com/everyday-dave
I don't know how much prices changed over a year, but we are getting a 10kW solar system here in Lithuania, and installers are offering them for 7k-9k euros with installation (including 21% VAT). We also get an incentive of €323 per installed kW from the government, which leaves cheapest 10kW offer total cost at €7k - €3.2k= ~€3.8k. So it should take only about 3 years for us for the system to pay off all the cost.
Thanks for sharing the great info. I am getting close to planning out a solar project at my home and this is very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Love the cost break down, thank you for sharing!
Glad it was helpful!
Amazing video and it shows by how professional you are!
Thanks! But, actually I'm not a professional, just a guy learning as I go... : )
I spent months researching DIY kits for my home and then I went downtown to get the permits and I was told the homeowners are not allowed in our county to install system that has to be done by a professional
Sorry to hear that, you might consider moving.. : ) I did a video on getting a permit, my recommendation was to make two phone calls before you start anything, one to the utility company and one to the building department, you can watch that video here: th-cam.com/video/imiEYDHLG4A/w-d-xo.html
I live in Ohio and I got quote from solar company for installation of grid tie solar panels 3KW system. Total of $12,400 before 26% of federal tax credit. This seems to be too expensive. What do you think?
The best way to make sure you are getting a reasonable proposal is to compare to several others. When I was considering having my system installed, I got quotes from 5 different companies. The swing in price between vendors was on on the order of thousands of dollars. Once you are confident you have the best price, make sure the payback period meets your targets. Hope that helps!
Thank you ! Your video is the best !👍
Glad you liked it!
What would you recommend for a Two bedroom home solar setup and the amount of panels needed? I live in the marshall Islands and I would be off grid completely? I watched your other video where did a step by step on how to install a solar system. Very informative and easy to follow. Thanks man.
Thanks! Glad it was helpful. Off grid requires a significant increase in the system size as well as the addition of batteries. You can get some help on where to get started sizing your array here: th-cam.com/video/rbFnZqA0GCI/w-d-xo.html
You are very underrated.
Zoning and permits
I don’t have to worry about that out in country.
I rather have someone else do it cause I have no clue .
In some EU countries there is a limit to max 10kWp solar power you can install in your house, i wish i could install as much as i wish...
How long did it take you to complete this project? Just for planning on install and the physical install?
Good question. I didn't track it directly and there was a lot of added time for setting up video for every part of the install, but I would estimate about 40hours for the install. Thanks!
Your compounded rate of return on this system is 5.7% over 25 years assuming 2.4% annual cost of electricity increase and $0 system scrap value. Over past 30 years the stock market returned 9.9% on average. To make solar have 9.9% annual return it would have to cost $4500 total or $0.48/watt. Doable in some parts of the world.
I would love someone to address that many equipment manufacturers won’t honor warranty for DIY installs. What manufacturers honor warranty to DIYers?
Why did you get the optimizers ground mount system doesn't require rapid shutdown units. Diodes in the panels do the same thing as an optimizer unless you wanted to see the power output of each panel. I like the comparison I know solar contractors in the past were quoting extremely high rates up to $8 a watt. I have seen some with battery storage up to 100k. Like most contractors can always find someone else to do it cheaper.
I didn't have very much knowledge about solar systems when I installed my first system. Here is a video I did later on this exact topic: th-cam.com/video/nC7i_GSrGlk/w-d-xo.html
Dave, Thanks for the great videos. I'm planning my installation now in Indiana and have been using your videos for a guide. You mentioned that your utility pays you $.04/Kwh for surplus. I didn't see any surplus credits in your calculations. Didn't you ever send surplus energy to the grid?
Thanks! I'm glad it's been helpful. I certainly have surplus on given days, and I have had a couple of months that were net zero, but no surplus for a monthly billing cycle. I wasn't confident in the economic viability of the activity when I started it, in retrospect, I could have made the system a little larger without a significant impact to the payback time period.
@@ProjectsWithDave Thanks for your reply. I'm grateful for your time. Seems the bottom line is how much power you are producing and multiplying that by the kwh rate to figure ROI. How much I can expect my system to produce is proving hard to pin down. My research results on this aspect isn't exactly black and white. That's why I became interested in your analysis. I live in Lafayette, Indiana and I thought I heard you live in Ohio. So, geographically I think our sun exposures are somewhat similar. And, you seem accurate and trustworthy with your figures. Therefore, I feel comfortable using your results and analysis as a basis for myself. I live in a production home neighborhood, which made HOA approval a little tricky. But, because I'm doing a ground array in my backyard and only 14 panels, I managed to get approved. Will be starting the project within a month or so. Thanks again for the great videos and your time. Best wishes.
I give some detailed explanation on how to determine the size of your array here:
th-cam.com/video/rbFnZqA0GCI/w-d-xo.html
@@ProjectsWithDave I am wrestling with the size of the system and I am looking at a 20kW system and using the summer excess production to heat my house electrically during the winter. I am using nearly 800 gallons of propane per year right now.
good info, thanks very much!
Glad it was helpful!
Great video. Why did you choose mono instead of poly for a ground installation?
One of my goals was to maximize the per panel output, to minimize the structure size and quantity of optimizers. These were the highest output panels I could get at the time.
@@ProjectsWithDave Yeah, if you want the highest output per square feet, then mono is the way to go.
Thanks for all your work. I'm curious about your experiencing with shipping times (which I imagine are even more challenging now). I'm considering following your lead, but I would need to finish it by mid May, so I have 2 months to order, receive, and install. I'm curious if you feel like that's too aggressive of a timeline, both to order and receive and in the case that something breaks or we figure out we need something else during installation. I could pick it back up again next year, but if I make the investment now, I'd love to catch the summer's sun. Also, I don't have much more than very basic tools at the moment. Do you have a sense for cost of tools you needed that may not have been included in your budget? Also, a timing question...I see you feel like you spent about 40 hours. What do you think is the best number of people to be involved to make it go quickly? I would likely have two, but could be three or four people total. Finally...I see that APA does the ground screws that you used, but also does the ballast baskets filled with rocks. Did you have any thought process in deciding between those types? Thanks so much!
I think two months is a very aggressive timeline. It's possible, but I wouldn't attempt it if I had to guarantee it would be done. Shipping delays, permitting and rental schedules can all delay things multiple weeks. I have not tried the ballast methods but I'm sure they would work fine as well. I tried to include everything in my budget so the only extra expenses would be tractor rental and household tools like shovels, volt meter etc. Hope that helps.
good job on the install, looks great. I think the power optimizers are overkill since it doesn't look like your setup would get any shade? also those mounting poles look kind of weak. are they the same strength as say fence posts? any concerns of them bending out of shape in high winds?
Thanks! The poles are much more robust than fence posts, the rack is rated for over 90mph winds.
Any business case should include the time value of money so the cost of money whether to borrow or what you could earn risk-free should be included to discount future savings or costs. In other words a dollar today is worth more than the promise of a dollar 5 years from now.
This channel is awesome!! So to the point!!!
Such a professional presentation and project many thanks
Thanks!
This is great. Thanks!
Thanks! Glad it was helpful!
Great video!
Excellent video!
Thank you!
I had several companies come in both have quoted me $50-65K for the same system you have but no disconnect from the grid BOX , the 65k was with a wall battery . 65000 divided by 360 months (30 years ) it be $180 per month just to pay off the panels , I’ve told them hey I don’t think we are there yet to offer ppl this nonsense . I’d hire someone for 25k NOOOO PROBLEM
Installers are asking absurd amounts for installing solar systems. I would not pay someone to install a system that took more than 7 years to pay off. I recommend a couple of options for getting more reasonable quotes in the description. I would keep looking.
Thanks for the information! This reaffirms my decision to buy new old stock panels. Even buying "wholesale" the price is still too high for me. I definitely want that racking system you used. Do you have a link to how you made that 3pt post hole digger attachment?
I glad I could provide some reference information to help you make your decision. I don't have a video on making the attachment. I just measured the post hole digger and provided the materials and dimensions to a friend to machine and weld up for me.
@@ProjectsWithDave Thanks! Once I get them, I am sure I can figure something out. Again thank you for being so transparent. I wish more were honest about that kind of stuff.. It really helps people understand costs, plan their budget and show them how much "fat" can be in installed goods..
I have very hard ground and I was able to install some very large screw anchors using a cheap harbor freight gas auger WITH a $60 torque multiplier (lug wrench gearbox). Had to make adapters of course. The limit was the twisting strength of the anchor shafts. May bake more sense for most to rent a machine like the producer used, unless you frequently need to auger random holes in your life lol.
Excellent Explanation. Great.
Congratulations Sir.
🌹
Thanks for the video. Did you source all the materials and parts locally? If not, was shipping included in your costs?
The racking and solar equipment was shipped and the shipping was included. Thanks!
The EV charging capability on the inverter is of interest to me because I cannot find anything else on line that has this feature. The description for the inverter doesn't mention a DC to DC converter. Have you confirmed that it can charge an EV?
It does not do DC - DC charging, but it will charge directly from solar. Here is more content I did on the charger: th-cam.com/video/U2ilH8yOi7A/w-d-xo.html
An excellent description of a solar power grid-tied installation. Do you have a similar one on off-grid applications, especially one that gets into the whole issue of batteries?
Thanks!. I don't have one on an off grid solution, but maybe in the future.
Excellent, concise video , thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for the straight information!
That conduit alone costs more than four times as much right now where I live. I wonder if that's a COVID-19 effect on the market.
Yes, it seems like almost all building supplies have been impacted by the current supply and demand imbalance. Hopefully that improves soon.
i believe the rebate also includes labor.
The US tax credit does include labor if you pay someone to install your system.
I really liked the explanation. I would like to get the links to the different spread sheets you rederred to in your video.
Here is the one for sizing your solar array: drive.google.com/file/d/1pbkrexpzooKA3wIDZtH_6cI4dHyuE6_n/view?usp=sharing
Here is the one for Roof VS Ground each worksheet is on a separate tab:
drive.google.com/file/d/1aOJMbFIs4yawxO4_2jnfvhL9w6S-Pap_/view?usp=sharing
Excellent job and great information!👍🇨🇦
Thank you! 👍
I was quite surprised to see EV vehicle charge port. Diging bit deeper it looked like a 240 AC charge not DC charge (as it's much more expensive to do proper DC-DC)
SolarEdge doesn't give a lot of detail on how it's solar boost works during charging. I show the cable install and a little more detail on the topic in this video: th-cam.com/video/U2ilH8yOi7A/w-d-xo.html
I think DIY solar is far less intimidating if you have the space to ground mount.
Be interesting to see what the DIY prices and quotes are today mid 2024!
It's always going to be significantly cheaper than paying for a full install. Ground mount is the way to go if you have the space.