I'll post some numbers on the panel system's production soon, but it looks good so far. It is producing about 500 kWh per month, which is about what we expected. We are also grateful that we did not go with a system large enough to cover all of our usage needs, because at present, energy prices are very low. We signed a 2-year deal locked in at 7 to 9 cents per kWh depending on usage.
Our assumptions were based on prices much higher than that, but we are still happy with our decision. There's no telling where prices are going to go. Especially in light of the tragedy in Japan. NRG had(s) big plans for nuclear power in Texas, and from a political standpoint, that just became a lot more difficult. Yet, demand continues to increase. Remember the rolling blackouts this last winter? Luckily we do still have an over-abundance of shale gas for the time being. Again, politics and regulation can have an impact there as well.
The panels are producing, we are still paying less than they are costing us, and the customer service at APS continues to be responsive.
Our HOA had some questions about our compliance to their stipulations and the APS team was right there at the ready. We are also trying to make sure the neighbors are happy by exploring the addition of a small fence/blind to cover the additional meter and the inverter.
Check back in soon for real numbers :)
