I'm new to solar energy and have a Panasonic system installed that generates 3.6kW, with an inverter that can handle up to 7600W. Currently, I have 10 panels at 350W each, all connected to a 13.5kW battery. I'm considering adding 3 to 4 more panels to increase our output to around 5kW. However, I'm unsure if I can do this without permits or how much companies typically charge for such an addition here in Southern California, where I think we're on NEM 3.0.
2 Answers
For adding more panels, you will need permits, so don’t skip that step! I'm currently in the process of adding 8 panels and another battery myself in California, and it's going to cost me around $10,000. It’s definitely a worthwhile investment, especially with your inverter's capabilities.
Yes, you can definitely add more panels to your system! Just keep in mind that you shouldn't attempt it without the proper knowledge. There are safety concerns like arc flash at high voltages, so you’ll need to check if your current hardware can handle the additional voltage and whether to set the new panels up in series or parallel. Also, it’s essential to ensure you’re compliant with local regulations before proceeding.