Everything You Need to Know About Tesla Solar Systems

Tesla has become a household name. When you think of the brand, you likely imagine the electric cars that have revolutionized the world. However, Tesla has another venture: solar energy. The company wants to bring renewable energy to people who may have thought they couldn’t afford it. Before switching to Tesla solar systems to power your business or household, here are the basics you need to know.

Tesla Solar Systems vs. Other Companies

Tesla solar systems work the same as other solar energy devices: They receive energy from the sun and use it to power your home, office, or other building. The light hits your roof and the solar panels turn it into electricity, which is then purified into clean energy used to run appliances, lights, and other items.

The Tesla solar system, in particular, turns the power off at night and switches to regular electricity. Other companies may have a battery storage system that allows you to draw from extra power after sunset.

Also, Tesla solar systems may not be available in your location. While Tesla’s service is currently limited, more expensive options like SunPower service all 50 states. One thing to consider is how soon you want solar panels installed on your property — that fact may help you decide between Tesla and one of its competitors.

Tesla is by far the most affordable option, but whether it’s available in your area and if you have time to wait might influence your decision.

Tesla offers fewer options than its competitors, which have different sizes and capacities of batteries. You might want a more customized approach, as your energy needs will likely differ from the standard. Get quotes from several companies to help you assess which solar option is best for you. Regardless of your choice, you’ll make a difference in your life and improve the world by changing to solar.

How Much Does Tesla Solar Cost?

Tesla is one of the cheapest options for installing solar energy at home or the workplace. It’s around $2.18 per watt for the largest option, whereas the average cost of solar is about $3-$5 per watt. However, the number could change depending on where you live or install the panel. You should also factor in any changes your house might need to accommodate solar energy.

You can also determine potential costs based on the size of the system you want for your building. Larger solar systems are often installed in businesses and corporations, while small- to medium-sized panels are usually used in residential areas.

Larger solar panels have several benefits, including:

  • Lower cost of installation
  • Quicker installation
  • Great amounts of solar energy are converted and produced

However, larger solar panels also have drawbacks — they might be costly to repair and challenging to install, thanks to their weight and size. When choosing panels for a home or business, you should carefully evaluate your options.

How Tesla Solar Systems Fit Into Your Life

Tesla solar systems can work for businesses and homes alike. It’s the most affordable option in solar energy, making renewable power possible for those who may have previously thought they couldn’t afford it. It can generate electricity while avoiding carbon emissions that can harm the Earth.

Another major part of the Tesla solar power system is the Powerwall Battery. You can place it anywhere, indoors or outside, and it can integrate with your architecture easily. It holds around 14 kilowatt-hours of energy and powers most appliances. Solar power can recharge the battery, but excess can’t always be stored. Excess flows back into your energy meter to power other homes and businesses on the solar grid. You can also monitor your production and usage from an app.

If you install solar systems until 2032, you’ll receive a 30% tax credit for using renewable energy. This tax credit will decrease to 26% in 2033. This is a huge benefit people should consider if they’re on the fence about installation.

Tax credits are nice to have in mind when considering switching to solar, but you must also remember to clean the panels regularly. You should brush debris off and wipe them clean with a cloth and warm water, which can help improve sunlight absorption when they seem not to be working as well.

The downside is that Tesla’s customer service is reportedly not the best. You may have to wait longer for repairs and installations, and its vocabulary regarding their warranties can be confusing.

Fortunately, the company offers price-matching for solar panels to ensure it’s the most affordable option, giving it a leg up over its competitors. It also provides panels by the shingle, offering a seamless appearance if you don’t want your energy source to disrupt your architecture.

Adopt Solar and Change the World

Solar is just one of the many options for clean energy, but it’s also one of the most accessible. With tax credits and companies like Tesla promoting it, solar energy will likely become more commonplace as time goes on. While it may not be affordable for everyone right now, it could be a good option for your home or business to save up for. Research various companies with different perks and customer service expectations. In time, you’ll find the solar company for you, whether it’s Tesla or something else.

  • Jane Marsh

    Jane works as an environmental and energy writer. She is also the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co.