Integrating home solar power in your house design

Solar power at home can cut electricity bills while helping to save the environment, but while it's relatively straightforward to install in new homes, it's sometimes tricky to add to existing homes.

Solar power is definitely the way to go if you're looking to make your home more sustainable - it's quiet, clean and helps to reduce electricity bills. While it's usually easier to install home solar power systems in new houses, it is also possible to transform an existing home into a solar powered house.

How solar panels work

Solar panels are powered by solar energy; they work by taking light from the sun and using it to make direct-current electricity. An inverter converts the direct current to alternating current, thus making it compatible with grid electricity. Solar power systems should ideally be oriented to the north and angled in such a way as to take in as much light from the sun as possible.

Solar power for new homes

In the case of a new home, it's important to think about the shape, tilt and orientation of your roof in the early design stage, so as to create the optimal conditions for home solar power products. In addition to the solar panels and inverter, solar power systems include mounts that need to be secured to the roof with bolts through the rafters. It's easier to locate the rafters before the roof is put on - another reason why it's preferable to install these systems while a house is being built.

Solar powering an existing house

Putting solar power into an existing home may cost around the same as installing it in a new home with a similar-shaped roof. However, complications can arise if the roof is of a more awkward design or if the orientation is off (although most systems can work up to an angle of 45 degrees off north). Talk to a consultant from a solar company about how best to turn your home into a solar powered house, taking into account your requirements and the type of roof design and orientation you have.

Talk to your electricity provider first!

Before installing a home solar power system, it's also important to contact your electricity supplier about connection and metering arrangements to have your home powered by solar energy, as electricity suppliers are not automatically obliged to connect your system to the grid.

Cost of installing solar power technology

Solar power systems can cost anywhere between $6000 and $60,000, depending on the technology used, the size of the panels and your particular roof. There is a government rebate available to make solar power more affordable, but you must apply for it before purchasing a system.

For more information and advice on whether solar power is right for your home, search for a home solar power specialist online: