Product preview: Sleeker solar roof panels

With federal tax credits for solar-power installations extended through 2008, now could be the time to slash your taxes and your energy bill. Two new products, one for power and one for hot water, make going green simpler and more stylish.

Sharp’s Solar Racking System minimizes the bulky look typical for solar panels. The mounting clips on the ND-187U1 modules integrate seamlessly into roofing to completely hide its mounting structure, according to Sharp. Front-, top-, and side-angled trim covers also give the solar panels a sleeker, cleaner look. Sharp’s system is available now. Price quotes from certified installers are available through Sharp at 800-765-2706. Expect to pay between $25,000 to $30,000 (installed but before any rebates you might get from your utility or the federal or state government) for a 2,500-sq.-ft. home.
Web site: www.solar.sharpusa.com

FAFCO’s Hot2o is a lightweight, roof-mounted solar water heater that, claims the manufacturer, can reduce by 50 percent the amount of money you spend heating water. Designed to supplement an existing water heater, the Hot2o was developed with the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory. According to FAFCO, the $1,500 heater works with any conventional tank and can be installed by do-it-yourselfers with a drill and a caulking gun.
Web site: www.hot2o.com

Essential information: If you’re not ready to go solar yet, read Water heaters: Hot tips for a better buy, which includes advice on whether water heaters with long warranties are worth their extra cost. Visit GreenerChoices.org for more information on saving energy on your energy bills and read Being green can save green.

Comments

[Stef. F]

Thank you, Richard for using green products..You helped me and my kids find allergy relief.

I would also like to thank you for the answering all of my kid’s questions about how to became a Firefighter. You truly rescued our home!

Abco Carpet Cleaning (Firefighter Owned and Operated) uses products are formulated with the highest QUALITY, most RESPONSIBLE ingredients possible from NATURAL SOURCES such as:grapefruit, seed and pulp, coconuts, soybean, oranges, limes, corn, aloe, vegetable fiber, cider vinegar, cold pressed essential oils, meadow foam seeds, white cedar leaf extracts. All products are readily biodegradable. No animal testing or ingredients. Give Richard a call at 817-683-9882.

[Warren Taylor]

I could use some help on whitch solar panel's are the best. And how do you sell excess power to utility co.

[L Kelly]

Do you think you folks could do a story on solar energy for home use? I have searched high and low for information and its scarce. I would be interested in what type of gov't assistance in the form of tax rebates were available. Also cost would be a factor as well as longevity of the unit, how it affects the roof etc.

[Mike Scherer]

I could also really use some CR type reviews of solar panels.

There's a huge vacuum of good info which CR really *should* be the one to fill. As news of global warming tipping points gets out, there will be a huge surge in PV demand.

Urgency is just a rejection-of-denial away.

[David Landskov]

Most Americans understand the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gases and the ultimate cost advantage of doing so. Solar panels are fast becoming a commodity. Where's the review, CR?

[Charles Cone]

Effective July 1, 2008, Georgia now has state income tax incentives for the installation of commercial and residential solar PV, solar thermal water heating and wind turbines.

[Maribeth]

Down here in blistering Houston, TX, I just got my first $500 electric bill for summer cooling - and it's only for the month of June.

I am DESPERATE to do something to lower my electric costs. I'd LOVE to see something done on solar panels, particularly how much electricity they can provide in my area (where it's always sunny), how effecient they are, and if they're going to be worth the $25,000 cost. Oh, and something about the government rebates/financial incentives would be nice, too.

[paul appelbaum]

i am thinking about solar panels, i had one company come to the house, but i need help to understand terms such as ptc, atc, how to compare different manufactures of panels, how to determine the point at which the system pays for itself, etc.

[Cheri Wire]

any information on free standing solar panels. We have SNOW 4 months of the year and roof mounted panels would be useless. How about CR doing some research for northern snow climes and solar. We have sun most of each day, winte and summer. With soaring heating prices it would be great to have information on solar.

[Joseph Van De Ryt]

I would like to have a report done on solar pool heaters. Does anyone out there have a Fafco system.

[Paul Hogan]

there are lots of solar panels in Maine, including houses are carbon neutral -- you need right angle on roof for snow to slide off

[joe kneece]

Please do several reports about home systems and truth about efincency.

[Bob]

I most strongly agree with all the comments urging CR to tackle the residential solar power products and options. Not just information, but actual testing and RATINGS of different manufacturers and models on key metrics (efficiency, output/$ cost, durability, appropriateness for diff areas of country, etc) - and update them annually.

I want to remodel in next 6-12 months including adding solar power in Los Angeles but it's a huge big-ticket purchase and there's no unbiased info source to help sort out which manufacturers are making the best products for which applications. Step up, CR!

[Paul]

I agree strongly with Bob (10/29/08)and others: now is the time for CR to test the currently available solar power systems for homeowners. It would also be very helpful to learn what newer technology is expected to be available in the next few years. With the tax credit for installing residential systems now better than ever, homeowners are looking to the always-reliable source of objective information for guidance. As Bob wrote: Step up CR!

[Mal]

When are we going to see reviews of PV solar panels from CR? I expect CR to be a cutting edge, up to date source of information. You are dropping the ball in a time of obvious need, want, and desire to use these products, and leaving the consumer completely vulnerable to heresay and undocumented results. Let's get a move on research and data to inform the consumer of the green renewable energy technologies that are currently out there. WAKE UP! Don't forget to include wind energy (turbines and blades), and heat pumps used for geothermal. Restore my faith in why I subscribe to CR and please start putting data out on the aforementioned. Thanks.

[Don]

Add me to the list of those who think that CR should be providing us with rating information on alternate energy products. I must say that I was surprised and disappointed to find no reviews regarding these technologies from CR. Come on CR, get up to speed, We're counting on you to keep us from being thrown to the wolves.

[don]

CR please do the research for the roof panels. It's the wave of the future.

[Neal Miller]

I would think that an entire solar issue would be a real benefit. I am particularly interested in using solar to heat our water and assist with home heating.

Thanks for a wonderful resource!

[Don]

Yes, I am also disappointed that CR still has no opinion on solar electric panels. I have an installer coming to my home today to give me an estimate on a system but I have no way to compare its performance with competing brands.

[Chuck Schrader]

I have been a consumer report member for over 20 years and you have saved me lots of money, and lots of headaches. I am dismayed that you have nothing at all on solar panels or systems. Please let me know where i can find crediable information on solar systems. I wish you had something I trust you.
Thanks,
Chuck

[George Hoggan]

I have been trying to collect information on home solar electric systems for serveral years and could really use your help. This is a big investment and mistakes can be very costly. Please consider reviewing these system.

Thanks
George

[Don Crawford]

We baught a FAFCO solar heater. The heater works ok, but were told by others we would require 6 panels. Fafco said only 5 would be needed and if that did not work well enough a 6th would be installed at no extra cost. The 5 panels do not keep our pool heated about 80 degrees through the 9 months they say, and they have found every possible excuse not to instal a 6th panel. We have heard simalar issues from others saying FAFCO is none to not stand behind their warranty and guarantees.We have since talk several neighbors out of using Fafco and recommend other systems before using Fafco.

[Dainius]

Hello, I am from Lithuania, I was very interested in this system, Can you advise where to find more information in this topic?

[John Boquist]

Hi

Like an earlier writer, I am curious as to know the different solar panel offerrings as well as the quality differences. I live in a Northern climate (snow 4 months per year but a fair amount of sunshine in the summer). What would you recommend or where would I go to research this.

[Sunshine Rancher]

I investigated solar roof panels. First of all, they work best only in the southwestern USA. Secondly, for a $20,000 or $25,000 investment you get enought power to heat your hot water but not enough to sell it back to the utility company. So if you have an all electric house (like I do) and you electric bill is under $100 a month in the spring and fall when not using AC or heat, you will not save much by installing solar panels, i.e., the payback time for a $25,000 investment for a $5 or $10 a month hot water bill even with the tax breaks will be years. Hopefully, the materials and installation costs will become more reasonable in the future and installing solar panels will be a true benefit to the homeowner.

[Erwin Butikofer]

Add my name to the list of people interested in an evaluation of flat panel and evacuated tube solar hot water panels.

[Allen]

With all of the news about turning this country's economy around and with some government assistance for We, The People, to do what we can, I am disappointed that CR has not been ahead of the curve when it comes to PV electric panels, there quality, ratings and pricing for home electric self generation. I do believe if CR did it's part sorting through all the confusion, it would be a huge asset and help homeowners determine what would be right for them depending upon where they live. Let's get busy, the President has asked us to step up one and all....

[Raymond Gorospe]

I am just now getting bids for installation of solar electrical panels on my home. I am disappointed to find you do not have any ratings for these products. I can't trust sales reps line of BS. I look to you for comprehensive reporting to help us laypeople figure out the best products available. Step up to the plate CR.

Ray
Manhattan Beach, CA

[Ramon Arevalo]

I received some literature on solar panels. I called the company for for Mfg. brand that they use.
1. Was Sun Power. 2. Sharp.

I will not purchase one until I have the ratings on the panels.

Recently I read in the Ventura, Ca. that some roof caught fire, were due to the solar panels.

Ramon O Arevalo

[mark]

I don't buy this man-made global warming garbage but I am interested in energy independence and saving a buck too. I subscribe to CR online plus 2 other CR printed publications and it has been helpful in many purchases that I've made but none compare to the cost of this solar panel issue. Honestly, before you do another issue on the best cameras, vacuums, etc I'd REALLY like to see some objective, informed advise on solar panels.

I live in the northeast with snow and wind issues. I'd like to see ratings, comparisons, explanations in layman's terms on how this works, maintenance, life expectancy, output expectancy, break even estimates, effectiveness during cloudy conditions, problems and benefits, roof/positioning requirements, potential pitfalls to avoid and is it safe for expensive/sensitive appliances like HD TVs and computers?

As so many have already said: come on CR, step up. I will not make a move on something like this until I'm sure I can make an informed decision. Thanks

[gus]

CR, I understand the solar panel technology is rapidly changing. Can you give the consumer a few guidelines for purchase?

[Jose]

Thanks for all the useful information about the energy saving CFL bulbs. However, in addition to all the requests for information on solar panels, CR has not once mentioned the emerging technology that is the LED bulbs for home use. The are still super-expensive but definitely many times more efficient and longer lasting than the CFLs. Also, there is no mercury in these LEDs to worry about for those who are environmentally aware or at least wish to be. There is no warm up time needed to get full power and can be used anywhere. I think that like everything else, once the word gets out the prices will fall and make them more affordable as companies rush to become greener.

[Marion]

I saw an online ad for a company called Power 4 Home. They say they provide all the information necessary to build solar panels and wind turbines for home use. They say the cost of items will be about $300 for the solar panels if you use their ideas for discounted and free sources. They say a person with no mechanical aptitude can construct and connect the panels.

Is this for real? Can you review this company or suggest alternatives? Thank you.

[Tom Moulson]

I've just had my pool in Southern California remodeled and would like to install solar heating. I know nothing about it and, to my utter disgust, neither it seems does Consumer Reports. Having read the previous comments I wonder whether CR has.

[Kathleen]

I, too, am very disappointed with CR for not having done their homework regarding solar panels for heating swimming pools. I was in the process of trying to make a decision hoping CR would have info regarding the various types. But.... NOTHING.

[Douglas]

Also looking for information and disappointed that it is not here. Will look elsewhere and may take my money there too.
Douglas

[Michelle M.]

Yet another frustrated consumer - I am also looking to buy solar panels for our pool, and am really disappointed there's no info on CR regarding them I agree with the post above - I don't need yet another car or digital gadget review - get with it, please!!

[Tim Dougherty]

BASIC KNOWLEGE FOR HIRING A SOLAR COMPANY:

1.Must be Licensed
2.Have a history of installing Solar ie. How many years?
3.Have their own certified electricians (C-10, other or better)
4. Get multiple bids from multiple companies. Listen and read their literature.

SOLAR PANEL INFORMATION:
1. Solar panels do not cause fires any more than a tree would.
(in response to a previous email post)
2. Compare solar panels on quality: All panels have specifications on output (rated by CEC and NEC) and a warranteed for 25 years.

3. Who's been making panels for a while would be a good place to start... BP Solar, Sharp, Sanyo off the top of my head -all good.

4. You are buying a system, not a panel... judge the system based on it's estimated output annually. (Don't forget #3 above)

5. You will own these panels a long time, long term ouput is of utmost importance, not how efficient they are on day one. I have heard negative comments about Sunpower and positives about BP, Sharp and Sanyo. BP are made in USA currently and are available at Home Depot where installation and warranty are both guaranteed.

6. A neat inverter is made by Enphase Energy (USA) which allows for the best monitoring of any system anywhere... they will even pay for any lost electricity should their unit fail.

YES. I work in the business!
-Tim

[Jack Share]

Which electric solar are best. I am in the Los Angeles area.

[Margaret B.]

I am extremely discouraged that CR has zero information regarding solar heating for swimming pools. There is a huge need for this information at this point in time. Will look elsewhere.

[Jessica]

Before you invest in conventional solar panels, find out about the latest and greatest technology hitting the market. Active Roof Technology is a fully integrated, COMPLETELY INVISIBLE solar roof system - the first solar hybrid roof you can buy. Payback comes in as little as 3 to 5 years, and the benefits of this roof go on and on. First, you get all the superior benefits of a great metal roof, which is the longest-lasting, more durable roof out there. Second, the Active Roof uses a fan-based energy management control system that automatically "comes on" when it detects solar energy striking the roof surface. And third, it's the ONLY solar roof system that purifies the air in the home or building on which it's installed! Talk about a triple whammy...

[Ken Spencer]

I guess I'm as disappointed as all of us in CR for not putting anything whatsoever out on Solar. I'm in the process of ordering up my solar system with REC Solar (Nationwide Company based out of California). One of the reasons I selected them is that they have the backing of Costco Wholesale. I was visiting family in Denver, stopped by Costco and they were there. I returned to Arizona, called REC Solar who presented me with a complete package on cost savings, install times, etc. The downside is that they needed 3 weeks before they were able to do an analysis of my requirements. I was advised today that they are so backlogged that it will take 3-4 months to start the installation on my system. I was surprised to learn that with the incentives, Federal, State, and APS (Electric Company in AZ)along with COSTCO, more than 75% of the material and labor cost will be paid for. Operating on my own research, I would feel a lot better if CR would provide some info on these systems but I feel I can't afford to wait with the potential savings.

[Ronnie]

Like many people before me, Why isn't CR taking the lead and testing different solar ( Water, PV ) panels. I've totally confused myself with First Solar, Suntech, LDK, SunPower, Energy Conversion, GT Solar, JA Solar Holdings, EVSO to name a few. Which is the best investment for the price? Not all PV panels are made with the same technology. What is the latest/best technology available? Which panel offers best output per square foot/dollar. Which panel offers the best life? Should new roofs be installed before panels are installed? What type of roof should solar panels be installed onto? How important is the angle of the roof line to the direction of the sun? Are their any self adjusting/tracking type solar panels. I won't get into wind power, YET?
I think many of your subscribers would like to hear from you on this solar question?
Thank You

[Ronnie]

Now about wind power; I've been gathering information and it seems to leave a big gap as to what type is best for power generation. Horizontal or vertical? Horizontal shaft seems to be favored in North America. Without a lot more information, their seems to be some merit to a European vertical design from StatoEoliens GSE. I am convinced that the GE and Westinghouse people have done a superior in selling the horizontal design here in America. Can you comment please?
Thank You

[Chris]

I read many of the comments above and agree that CR should get involved. I came here because I cannot find a legitimate source to verify if Power 4 Homes is a scam (which I now think is). Every site/article/review I go to seems to lead back to Power 4 Homes or (it's partner?) Energy 4 Homes. Can you help the whole energy (solar and wind)question? Thanks

[Elizabeth Donley]

I read all the comments and I am also very dissapointed that CR have not put together any info about solar panels. Not even pool solar panels. My concern is not just the solar panel itself but the way they different companies install them as they may affect the roof of your house. I live in FL and they are very popular here as well as so many southern states. Here we also have to be concern with wind factors from tornados and hurricanes. Can someone let me know if they have found any specifics and or good information in solar pool panels. CR are you planning in putting out any research, I like many other people would be veru interested, after all, a camera comparision is $100 to maybe $2000. This pool solar systems start about $4000 to $5000 and we are talking about solar panels for electricity $20000+. Help!!!!

[Bill]

I need review information on solar pool heaters.

[Maureen]

I have a bad feeling that CR will never test and review solar solutions. Since CR buys and independently tests the products, the costs to CR for broad spectrum testing will be exorbitant. $10k to $50k per system to be tested? Eek! Alternatively they could at least give us some analysis of the different technologies used, reliability ratings of the different companies offering solar systems based on CR subscriber ratings (they've done this with other subjects, ie: online retailers), and reports for DIY solar solutions, like Energy 4 Homes. All of those would be fiscally reasonable projects for CR. Since these postings have continued from the original date of April 2007 to August 2009, it's apparent that interest in this topic is not a passing fad. CR, we really need this info!

Waiting with bated breath,

Maureen