Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
FYI, I did an online calculation for my house using solar-estimate.org. The results showed that the upfront cost, after the tax credit, would be $12,489. This amount is supposed to be an average cost from four local solar contractors. The payback period is 16 years, and the total life cycle energy cost savings over 25 years would be $4,647. But, they did not include any potential investment return that I would forfeit by not being able to invest my $12,489. They also did not include any repair, maintenance, or insurance costs. So, I cannot see how a solar system would make financial sense for my house. Also, I think the 30 percent Federal tax credit is due to expire this year.
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Having and maintaining grass for a lawn doesn't give anyone any return at all, compared with having and maintaining a Better Homes and Gardens quality rock garden with cactii, but people do it all the time.
Sometimes people do things because it's the right thing to do. Sometimes they do it because the idea is appealing. Sometimes they do it because hey - if your neighborhood's electricity goes out, and you're not on the grid to begin with - you'll be the only one in the neighborhood who doesn't have to fire up the generator to keep the lights on and the refrigerator cold.