Hey everyone! I need some advice on expanding my solar setup. I currently have a 5.14 kW solar panel system installed by SolarCity sometime before I bought my house in 2018. The previous owner paid off the lease, but I still have a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the system. I'm considering adding around 2 kW more panels and a battery system to prepare for power outages. We might also be getting an electric vehicle and a heat pump soon, to tackle my high natural gas bills in winter. If you have any recommendations for good equipment and installers, I'd really appreciate it! One friend mentioned Sol-Ark, but I'm open to any other suggestions as well. Thanks in advance!
4 Answers
Definitely make sure you’re clear on the ownership situation! It could affect what you can and can’t do with your solar setup down the line. Let us know if you need more help figuring this stuff out!
I’m a bit confused about your setup. You mentioned the previous owner bought out the lease, but you're still under a PPA? If they actually paid off the lease, you shouldn't still have a PPA. It’s worth verifying that!
Hey! If you're looking for solid equipment, check out EG4. They've got some great options. Just a heads up, though: many installers typically won’t install equipment that you buy yourself since they often have a markup on what they provide. So you might want to factor that in when you’re making your decisions!
Thanks! That information is super helpful.
It sounds complex! Based on what you shared, you actually don’t own the solar system; it’s still owned by Mound Solar Owner VII, LLC. You’re leasing it for free, which means any modifications or removals would need their approval. That’s a good thing to be aware of if you’re planning upgrades!
I see your point! My docs state I assumed the lease, and I did sign a PPA Transfer. So it seems the system still technically belongs to the previous owner’s company, despite being on my property.