[Carl in Tampa]

Originally Posted by Markam

There is a fairly thorough article on this subject in the August issue of Consumer Reports.

Also make sure your homeowners insurance will cover wind or lightning damage to the cells and roof.

Lightning damage? In the lightning capital of the United States?

Wind damage? In hurricane country?

Another wrinkle might be to add big batteries to the PV system to retain excess power instead of selling it to SECO. Tesla's Powerwall or a somewhat similar products from Sonnen are discussed here.

Batteries? That adds greatly to the expense and extends the time before you reach the break even point.

And, there is an even greater expense for the special equipment that would let you "sell power" to the electric company.

So, you have to live another ten years or so just to reach the break even point, IF you experience no equipment damage or failure. THEN you start saving a little money.......the electricity is still not free, just at a reduced cost.

Again, a doubtful investment in a retirement community.