Photovoltaics Installation, 70 Miner Street

Frequently Asked Questions

I get regular emails from homeowners interested in installing a photovoltaics system, in regards to the system hardware itself and the installation by Sunlight Solar of Milford, CT. To address the lion's share of these questions, I've created this FAQ.

If after reading this you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me. Greg, gatm2k-pvfaq at yahoo com

Did the installation of the panels create any "visual" eyesores, i.e. poorly installed cables down the side of your house etc?

Nope. On the contrary, the install is very professional and clean. One of the main concerns for my wife was the visual aspect of the install, and she's very pleased with the end result.

Did you realize the savings in your electric bill that you expected?

Yes. We the system was installed mid-January 2008, and was estimated to output 4600 kWh per year. At the time of this FAQ update (January 2009) the system has generated 4795 kWh of AC power.

Granted, 2008 was a nice sunny year overall, and the winter of 2009 isn't (we've only done ~100 kWh since mid-December) but I'm pleased. in fact, I'm giving consideration to adding more panels.

How was Sunlight Solar to work with during the installation process?

Very easy to work with. The sales rep was very patient with my numerous inquiries and concerns. The install guys got in there and completed the work very quickly (roughly 5 working days or so?) and my main install contact, Diane Urionabarrenchea, was very helpful with all the follow-up inspections.

All in all, a completely painless experience.

Did they do what they said they would do when they said they would do it at the quoted cost?

Absolutely, to a "t". No surprises, exactly as expected.

Would you use Sunlight Solar again?

Absolutely. They came recommended to me from a mutual friend, and I'm glad I followed through.

If you could do it over again would you have gone through with the solar panel installation? Why or Why not?

Yes.

My primary - almost exclusive - reason for installing PV was financial, as a hedge against future energy costs. Ergo, I'm completely satisfied. Regardless, the install seems to be a good investment and I'm confident it will at least pay for itself in a reasonable time frame. Other than the costs itself I have absolutely no reason for not wanting to do it again. In fact, I'm really sorry I took so long to actually make it happen!