The decision to invest in residential solar panels can be a complex one, especially when considering the age and condition of the roof. Bryan and Summer Stubblefield found themselves in this predicament when they wanted to install solar panels on their California home. The quotes they received for the solar system were around $28,000, but with the realization that their roof had about 10 years left, they were faced with a difficult choice. They could either replace the roof now, nearly doubling the cost of the project, or install the panels knowing they would have to be removed and reinstalled when the roof needed replacement.
This dilemma is not uncommon, according to Amy Atchley of Amy’s Roofing and Solar. About half of their customers need roof work done to accommodate solar panels, and for those with several years left on their roof, the decision can be challenging. Many homeowners end up deciding to wait, delaying the benefits of solar power or facing significant additional costs.
One of the reasons this decision is so challenging is that tax incentives for solar panels do not cover underlying roof issues. The federal tax credit for solar systems does not include traditional building components like roofing. This lack of financial assistance influenced the Stubblefields’ decision to wait, despite their desire to go solar.
However, the residential solar market is still growing, with half a million new systems coming online each year. Companies like GAF are targeting customers who need new roofs by offering integrated solar shingles like Timberline Solar. These shingles incorporate photovoltaic panels and can be installed like conventional shingles, providing a seamless solution for homeowners.
While some situations may warrant installing panels before replacing the roof, many experts agree that waiting to do it all at once makes the most sense. Integrated roofing and photovoltaic technologies could be further incentivized by the government to encourage more homeowners to go solar. For example, Atchley’s company sells a metal roof designed to accept solar panels with a longer lifespan, but it does not currently qualify for clean energy incentives.
In response to these challenges, lawmakers introduced the “RAISE the Roof Act” in 2021, aiming to expand the solar tax credit to include integrated roofing solutions. By incentivizing these integrated technologies, the government could further promote the adoption of solar power and help homeowners make more sustainable choices for their homes. The Stubblefields, like many other homeowners, have found themselves in a predicament when it comes to installing solar panels on their roof. With only 5 to 10 years left on their roof, they are faced with the decision of whether or not to invest in solar energy once again. Despite their desire to go solar, they are hesitant to make the commitment due to the uncertainty surrounding the lifespan of their roof.
This dilemma is not unique to the Stubblefields. Many homeowners who are interested in solar power are faced with difficult calculations and decisions about the condition of their roof. The cost of installing solar panels can be significant, and it is important to ensure that the roof is in good condition before making such an investment. If the roof needs to be replaced in the near future, it can add significant costs to the overall project.
Unfortunately, efforts to address this issue have not been successful, leaving many would-be solar adopters with unanswered questions. Without clear guidance on how to assess the condition of their roof and make informed decisions about installing solar panels, homeowners are left to navigate these complex calculations on their own.
For the Stubblefields, the decision about whether or not to go solar once again is a difficult one. They are eager to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their energy bills, but they are also mindful of the potential costs and risks associated with installing solar panels on a roof with a limited lifespan.
As more and more homeowners consider making the switch to solar energy, it is crucial that solutions are developed to address the challenges they face. By providing clear guidance and support for assessing the condition of roofs and making informed decisions about solar installations, we can help homeowners like the Stubblefields make the transition to clean, renewable energy with confidence.
