Need to Buy a Used Solar Panel?
While solar energy is one of the fastest growing forms of clean, renewable energy sources in the world, it can also be rather expensive. For a typical home, you can expect to spend between $25,000 and $35,000 to go completely solar. However, you may be surprised to learn that you can purchase a used solar panel very inexpensively. The key is knowing where to find these types of panels and for an affordable price!
What Size Are You Looking For?
You can find solar panels in just about any size. However, it’s more common to find the small to medium sized panels, rather than the larger ones used for mostly commercial purposes. If you are planning on using a smaller panel to power a small shop or a single appliance, then you should not have a difficult time finding such a panel.
Where to Start Your Search
Believe it or not, you can find a used solar panel close to home. Remember the road signs that construction companies use that are powered by a solar panel? Contact these companies in your area and see what they do with the panels they don’t want to use anymore. You’ll have more luck if you do this in person than over the phone. While they may not have any panels for you the first time you contact them, continue to check back. You may find that after awhile, they could contact you.
The internet is also a great place to search. There are several businesses listed that deal only in used solar panels and repair or replacement parts. Many of these panels are offered at over half off, which can result in a significant savings. However, it’s important to know a little bit about how the panels work and which type of panel will work best for your applications.
Since solar energy is becoming more and more popular, you may find that solar energy contractors are quite prevalent. Create a list of contacts and see if these companies have access to replacement panels or if they simply do new installations. You may be able to purchase a few used panels for a song if you make the right contacts.
Are Repairs Needed?
If you purchase panels that are in need of repair, will you be able to complete the refurbishment? If not, you may find this to be an expensive endeavor. While almost all panels can be repaired, it won’t be cost-effective in many cases. If you can find a used solar panel that is still in working order, it’s probably a much better investment.
A Few Final Thoughts
A used solar panel is a great way to get started with solar energy. Choose a panel large enough to power a small shop or a few lights. Once you have installed this panel, you can begin to look elsewhere for larger, more expensive panels. Since you can loop these panels together, you can add another as you finances allow.
Used Solar Panel Tip #1
Used solar panels will usually not be included in the rebates and tax incentives that are offered today. If this is what you are looking to cash in on, make sure you check all the requirements before you make your purchase.
Used Solar Panel Tip #2
Some solar panels only require a new Plexiglas covering to be fully functional again. However, others will require new wiring or completely new solar cells. Make certain you trust the seller, so you don’t throw your money away.
Used Solar Panel Tip #3
If a solar panel is over 20 years old, you may want to bypass it. This is because after 20-25 years, most solar panels will not produce as much energy as they did when they were new.
