Solar Information

How do you know if solar energy is right for you? Here are the factors to consider when adding solar panels to your home.

First, solar works well in all parts of the country. The key is to ensure that the system is sized correctly for your location and climate.

Some people wonder if a south-facing roof is a must. South-facing is best, but east- and west-facing roofs work well too. North-facing roofs aren't really worth installing solar panels.

Does your roof have to be new? Solar panels can last for 25 years or longer. So, while your roof doesn't need to be brand new, it should be in good shape before installing panels on top of it.

What types of roofs can support solar panels? Most popular types of roofing (such as vinyl membrane, concrete/clay tile and asphalt) work great, but wood shake roofs present too many challenges to make a good surface. Also, if your roof isn't ideal, it's also possible to mount panels on a ground-mount racking system instead.

The last thing to think about is obstructions. Shade on even small portions of a solar panel can dramatically reduce its output. Make sure there isn't too much shade on your roof from buildings or trees.

Remember, a reputable solar installation company will offer you a free assessment and estimate so you'll know for sure whether solar is right for your home.

Net Metering and Billing

In New Mexico, solar billing primarily works through net metering, where homeowners with solar panels receive credits for excess energy they send back to the grid. This excess energy is used to offset the cost of electricity purchased from the grid when solar production is low. Essentially, the utility meter may run backward, and you're only billed for the "net" energy consumed (energy used minus energy produced). 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

 Net Metering:

• How it works:

  Your solar panels generate electricity, and if you produce more than you consume, the excess is sent to the grid. 

• Credits:

  You receive credits on your electricity bill for this excess energy, typically at the same retail rate you pay for electricity. 

• Offsetting costs:

  These credits can be used to reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill when your solar system isn't producing enough electricity (e.g., at night or on cloudy days). 

• One-to-one credit:

  NORA offers 1-to-1 net metering, meaning you get full retail value for your excess generation. 

• Excess credits:

  PNM also allows excess credits to roll over to future months at the full value. 

Billing:

Net usage:

• You are only billed for the "net" energy you consume, which is the difference between the energy you use from the grid and the energy your solar system sends to the grid. 

 Other Important Considerations:

• Interconnection:

  Before installing solar, you'll need to connect your system to the grid, which involves an interconnection process with your utility. 

   

• System size:

  A properly sized solar system can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill, but it's important to consider your energy usage and potential for excess generation. 

   

• Financing:

  You can choose to purchase your solar system outright or explore financing options like leases or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).