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What Happens to Your Solar Panels When You Move?

A solar system is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your electric bills. But, what happens if you need to move? Circumstances can change quickly, and some people find themselves moving sooner than they anticipated.

Fortunately, moving is not a dealbreaker. You can bring the solar panels you’ve invested in with you or pass them along to the new buyers. Let’s examine both situations and get a better idea of which one is right for you!

Should You Bring the Solar Panels With You?

Whether you’re upsizing or downsizing, your first instinct may be to take the solar panels with you. You’ve invested in them so far, and you probably want to continue reaping the benefits of low energy rates. However, some factors need to be considered with your new property.

– Location of your new home. If you plan to move locally, the installation company may handle the removal and re-installation. If you’re moving out of state, though, the process probably won’t be worth it. Removing the panels is involved and can void the warranty.

– New rules and regulations. Contact the electric company for information on their solar program and how to connect the panels to the grid. Other things to ask about include permits, tax incentives, grants, and buying excess power.

– Sun and shade on the property. Even though solar panels work with most properties, some homes are better candidates than others. If you’re moving from a sunny state to a colder state, or your new home is heavily shaded, you may want to sell the panels with your current home.

If your new home is a good candidate for solar panels, the next step is to talk with your solar provider about your options. Again, not all companies will remove the panels due to warranty concerns, but some will.

…Or Leave Them to the New Buyers?

Selling your home with the panels is not necessarily a bad thing. For one, a solar system is a strong selling point for those who want to lead a greener lifestyle. You may be able to raise the asking price and sell your home faster. Second, you don’t need to worry about damaging the roof and having to offer a credit or repair.

Are Solar Leases Different?

Leases work differently because you don’t own the panels. In this case, call your solar provider and ask about moving the panels to the new location. If you don’t care to bring the panels with you, discuss your options with the company. Usually, this involves buying out the remaining money left on the lease.

If the panels do stay, it means the buyer would have to agree to take over the lease. The solar lease agreement would be transferred over and they could then enjoy the benefits of lowered energy bills. The process is simple, but it does take the right buyer.

There are pros and cons to taking the panels with you or leaving them to the new buyers. With the cost of solar systems decreasing and the number of financial incentives growing, it probably makes the most sense to leave the solar panels in place and purchase new ones for your new home!

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