Affixing solar panels on a townhouse can get you off the grid and increase your property value. There are many advantages to doing this, however, some cons you need to keep in mind too. In this article, you’ll read about the pros and cons of installing solar panels on a townhouse. I explain the possibility in more detail and share the average cost of doing this.
Installing Solar Panels On A Townhouse: Is It Possible?
What Is A Townhouse?
Townhouses are trendy in suburban areas and cities. While some are small, you can buy a townhouse with up to 4 bedrooms at much lower rates than traditional homes. Not only is it cheaper, but it’s also a safer option. Unwanted elements tend to refrain from entering complexes with a lot of people.
Electricity-Related Cons Of Living In A Townhouse
Don’t be fooled – townhouses still have unique issues. When there’s a problem with the main electricity line in your complex, everyone can be left without power until it’s fixed.
The price of electricity per unit may also differ from townhouse to townhouse. The Home Owners Association adds a percentage to your usage for maintaining the complex. The amount they add to your bill can vary depending on the size of your unit. You may end up paying more for electricity than the rest of the community.
Can You Put Solar Panels On A Townhouse?
Luckily, it’s 100% possible to power your townhouse with solar, eliminating all of these cons. Some body corporates or HOAs may object, but you can easily make the switch to solar.
To get going, you’ll need to formally apply and wait for board approval. They typically object if the solar panels will alter the appearance of your townhouse in a significant way. You might think you’re doomed, but there are ways to set up solar panels without causing damage to the roof of your townhouse. This process won’t cause inconvenience to your neighbors, who may also object.
Once the board approves, you can make your purchases and get ready to install your off-grid electricity system. The chances are slim that you’ll be able to take your solar setup with you when you move, so ensure you discuss all these details with the board first.
The Pros and Cons Of Putting Solar Panels On A Townhouse
The Pros Of Putting Solar Panels On Your Townhouse
Eco-friendly: The main advantage of going solar is the environmental impact. Solar power is known for being eco-friendly, no matter where you use it. You can reduce your carbon footprint significantly by putting solar panels on your townhouse.
No Electrical Bills: You can save thousands on electrical bills by going off the grid. You won’t have to pay the city for using power, and you will eliminate the extra HOA fees.
Solar power is 100% free. The only money you’ll be spending is the initial cost of the solar panels and backup batteries.
Power During Outages: Nobody likes power cuts and blackouts. With solar, you’ll have electricity whenever the sun is out, and your batteries are charged.
Extra Safety: Townhouses are very safe, but yours will be the safest. You will never be left in the dark, reducing the chance of unwanted elements trying to slip in.
Higher Home Value: Investing in solar panels adds value to any building. If you own your townhouse, you could be contributing to a higher market value. Your townhouse will be more appealing if you intend to sell.
The Cons Of Putting Solar Panels On Your Townhouse
Permanent Fixture: The biggest downside of adding solar panels to your townhouse is that it’s considered a permanent fixture. If you’re renting, you might not be able to take your panels with you when you move. The same applies when you own your townhouse. Most HOAs only allow the installation of solar panels if they stay when you go.
Space Usage: Some townhouses are small with limited space. Adding solar panels to your roof can limit the amount of usable space even more. Body corporates and HOAs may object to mounting solar panels for this reason.
Expensive: This con doesn’t only apply to townhouses. If your budget is limited, investing in solar panels will set you back. Solar setups are exceptionally costly. If you rent a townhouse, you’ll be investing in something expensive that’ll technically be someone else’s.
The Average Cost of Installing Solar Panels On A Townhouse
The cost of solar panels can vary widely depending on several factors. Solar companies all ask different prices keeping their own profits in mind. The size of the panels can significantly influence the price. Physically larger panels with a larger capacity are always the more expensive option. Another factor that influences the price is the type of solar panel. There are two main types to choose between: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline.
Mono solar panels are the best option for a townhouse. They’re smaller than poly panels while providing the same amount of electricity. The disadvantage is that they’re more expensive. The average cost of solar panels can range from $0.80 to $3 per watt. You can expect to pay between $200 to $750 for a 250 Watt solar panel. One solar panel will not be enough to power your townhouse. You could need up to 8 panels, depending on how many appliances you have. Your total initial investment to get your townhouse off the grid could easily add up to 15 thousand dollars.
Summary
The benefits of solar power are clear and if you put solar panels on your townhouse you can use the power it generates to run all of your indoor lighting needs. Still, some complex owners don’t approve. They typically profit from your electricity bills and don’t want to lose this income. You’ll have to work smart if you’re going to convince them to let you install solar panels on your townhouse. Before doing so, ensure it’s the right decision for your money too. It might not be worth it if you don’t own or plan to buy your townhouse. I hope this article was helpful and a good read. If you have more questions, ask them in the comments!
