Yes! You can always add more panels to your system. Upgrading your current solar system with additional panels can be accomplished very easily.
If you have a single central inverter for your solar system, it may be that you have not used up the capacity of the inverter. In this case you can simply add more panels until the inverter is maxed out. If you have a central inverter and it is at capacity with your current solar system, you can add another inverter sized for the additional panels being added on. If you have a system with micro-inverters, you just need to add as many panels and micro inverters as you need.
Monitoring is also simple for an addition. If you have the same inverters in the expansion as the current system, they can be added to your current monitoring system without issue. Some changes to the electrical hookups to your home may need to take place with an expansion, but your solar professional will be able to assess, and adjust this as needed.
Why Add Panels To An Existing System?
System expansions are more common than you think. As the United States becomes more electrified, homeowners are seeing electrical use increase as gas use decreases. Having the ability to add panels to your current array allows you to maintain consistent coverage of your annual electrical use. Rather than over-sizing a system at first, you can tailor your system to meet your needs. Often you may think you are going to have a higher electrical use in the immediate future. However, plans can change. So, sizing your array for your current electrical use and adding more panels are your use increase may be the best option for you.
Having the ability to expand your system is powerful. This solar system is your personal power plant. You are consistently producing a product (electricity) that is only increasing in value. This means that you are seeing a constant increase in the value of your system over its lifetime. Not only can you increase the capacity of your system in the future, your solar system can also be seamlessly integrated with batteries and power management systems in the future to allow for even more personal energy independence.
How Many Solar Panels to Add To An Existing System?
If you need help with sizing your expansion, a reputable solar professional will be able to help you. Assessing the electrical use of added items in your homes such as heat pumps, electric vehicle charges, even pools and hot tubs can be calculated by having a conversation with your solar professional. Currently In New York State, you will be eligible for the NYSERDA (New York State Research and Development Authority) rebate for an expansion. The federal tax credit also applies to solar expansions.
Related Articles
How Do Geothermal Systems Work?
Geothermal systems use three main components: the ground loop heat exchanger, the ground source heat pump, and the distribution system. These three components deliver this heat throughout the home.
How Does Solar Energy Work?
A proper solar electric system design begins with a detailed site evaluation, our first step is always a thorough analysis that models potential shading, annual electricity generation, and payback.
Geothermal System Costs: Sample Pricing
While several factors affect the costs of installing a geothermal system, let’s focus on the basics: heat pumps and ground loops, with examples of your total investment.
