Personal Story:

I have been interested in renewable energy for quite some time and have been following solar energy for several years. I think that renewable energy is the future and wanted to do something myself in this area. In 2011/2012, I started to notice that PV prices was coming down significantly. So I started doing research on what it would take, how much power I could produce, and what my payback would be. I read several books on the subject and decided that I could probably do the design and install myself having had some experience with construction and electrical systems. I applied for the Illinois solar rebate and after i got my letter several months later, I began the project soon after. It took me roughly 2 1/2 months to complete the project after I got the approval. I really enjoyed the whole project. I worked with pvpower.com as my PV supplier; they were very helpful and answered all my questions. My utility, Ameren, was easy to work with on metering issues. The power I generated from my system actually exceeded my earlier estimates. I have had zero problems with my system. I would definitely do it again!

What tips do you have for someone considering or moving forward with a solar installation?

Do some basic research, talk to other people that have installed PV systems, and know generally what you want and your goals.

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