Dear Dot,
I would like to put solar panels on my home. Can you recommend reputable solar companies servicing the Island?
—Lisa Maxfield, Oak Bluffs
Dear Lisa,
Fifteen years ago, Mr. Dot and I were forced to rebuild our roof when it became clear — thanks to water plip plopping onto our bedroom floor — that our roof was leaky. Trying to see the bright side, we decided it offered the perfect opportunity to install solar panels. But — again this was 15 years ago — more than four solar installers told us that there was no point: Our house didn’t have a south-facing roof, and we had too many trees. (As if there is such a thing as too many trees! I scoffed.)
Lucky for us, times have changed and there are few industries where that is as clear as green energy. Right now offers a golden opportunity to install solar panels on your roof (or in your yard).
Sean Buckley with Harvest Sun Solar installations in Vineyard Haven (and, full disclosure, the company Mr. Dot and I have hired to install solar panels on our roof) says it’s no longer necessary to have a south-facing roof (he’s not convinced it ever was) and that just about everybody is a fit for solar, with the occasional exception of those with lots of trees who refuse to trim back any of them. (I can get behind trimming…)
There are also loads of incentives (check them out here at dsireusa.org), according to both Buckley and Rob Meyers, who co-owns South Mountain, another solar installer.
To find a solar installer, talk to those who have solar panels. I’ve spotted plenty in Oak Bluffs. And take a look at EnergySage, which not only provides info, it allows local installers to quote on your particular installation. Cape Light Compact is also super helpful and includes a link to Energy Sage: capelightcompact.org/solar.
This is the golden age of solar, Lisa. Welcome to it.
Shiningly,
Dot
