Electricity

Generating your own sustainable solar energy involves installing solar panels on your property to harness sunlight and convert it into electricity. The New Hampshire Department of Energy has a series of videos about installing solar panels at your home. Also, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Assess Feasibility:

• Determine if your location receives sufficient sunlight throughout the year. Solar panels are most effective in areas with abundant sunlight.
• Evaluate the orientation and angle of your roof to ensure optimal solar panel placement.

Calculate Energy Needs:

• Estimate your household's electricity consumption to determine how many solar panels you'll need. You can find this information on your utility bills.

Choose Solar System Size:

• Based on your energy needs, select a solar system size. Systems are measured in kilowatts (kW) or megawatts (MW).
• A professional solar installer can help you determine the right system size based on your energy consumption and available roof space.

Select Solar Panels:

• Research and choose high-quality solar panels from reputable manufacturers. Consider factors like efficiency, durability, and warranties.
• Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are commonly used options.

Find a Professional Installer:

• Hire a licensed and experienced solar installer. They will assess your property, handle permits, and ensure proper installation.
• Obtain multiple quotes from different installers to compare costs and services.

Obtain Permits and Approvals:

• Depending on your location, you might need to obtain permits and approvals from local authorities before installing solar panels. A professional installer will often take care of obtaining permits for you.

Install Solar Panels:

• The installation process involves mounting the solar panels on your roof or on the ground, connecting them to an inverter, and wiring the system to your electrical panel.

Install Inverter and Electrical Components:

• The inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity usable in your home.
• Other electrical components, like meters and disconnect switches, are also installed.

Connect to the Grid (if applicable):

• If your system is grid-tied, you'll need to work with your utility company to set up net metering. This allows you to sell excess electricity back to the grid and receive credits on your bill.

Testing and Inspection:

• After installation, your system will be tested to ensure it's functioning correctly and safely.
• Some jurisdictions might require an inspection to ensure compliance with local codes.

Maintenance:

• Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Regularly clean the panels to remove dirt and debris that could reduce their efficiency. Of course, as a practical matter, roof-mounted solar arrays are hard to access safely. You will probably need to rely on the next rain storm to clear dirt, pollen, and other matter from your panels during most seasons. In winter, snow can impede generation of solar power, but panels can be surprisingly good shedding snow with any little bit of warming in the weather. Do not scrape over your panels with metal roof rakes.
• Check for any shading issues from trees or nearby structures that might affect panel performance.

Monitor Performance:

• Some systems come with monitoring tools that allow you to track the energy production of your solar panels.
• While generating your own solar energy is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and save on electricity bills, the initial investment can be substantial. Consider your budget, available incentives, and long-term savings when making your decision. Consulting with professionals and researching your options thoroughly will help you make informed choices throughout the process.

There are a few rebates and incentives available to New Hampshire homeowners for installing solar in 2026:

• The Electrify Monadnock Fund created by the Monadnock Sustainability Hub will begin operating in spring 2026 and provide up to $7000 in support of qualifying homeowners' residential energy projects, including installation of solar arrays.
• Property tax exemption: New Hampshire homeowners who install solar panels are exempt from paying property taxes on the additional value that the solar panels add to their home. This exemption is available for up to 20 years.
• Net metering: Net metering is a program that allows homeowners who generate their own electricity from solar panels to sell excess electricity back to their utility company. This can help to offset the cost of your electric bill.

In addition to these incentives, there may be other local or utility-specific incentives available. You can contact your local utility company or the New Hampshire Department of Energy to learn more about the incentives that are available to you.