Pluggable Solar Panel Kit to Lower Cost of Solar Installations-

Installing solar modules is typically a job reserved for certified professionals — however with renewable technologies advancing at such a rapid pace, solar panel installations may soon be as simple as 1,2,3. The “Sunfish”, designed by Chad Maglaque and Clarian Technologies, is a comparatively inexpensive solar module kit anticipated to release in stores by spring 2011. To begin installation, consumers would need to purchase a power module, circuit monitor and pluggable solar panel(s) from their local hardware store. Next, they must swap out a regular electricity outlet for the circuit monitor (which is as easy as installing a grounded outlet), plug in the 18-kilogram solar panel into the power module and mount it on the most sun-exposed side of their residence. The power module must then be synchronized with the circuit monitor using power metering software, such as Google PowerMeter. Once setup is complete, renewable energy will be readily available. “We’re talking about a [do-it-yourself] handyman on the order of cable guy level of installation,” Maglaque says. Depending on the consumer’s budget, one to five panel arrays may be implemented and can generate as much as 150 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month — enough electricity to offset one major appliance, such as a refrigerator. According to the company, one panel, with the module and circuit monitor will cost around $799. “I see that being $599 in the not-too-distant future,” Maglaque adds. “Solar continues to come down in price.” Although, to be realistic, it would take as much as four years to pay back that cost in electricity savings even with government rebates and tax credits. The system price is nominal when compared to a solar installation using a licensed contractor, however, which can skyrocket the total cost to around $20,000. Not to mention, an added benefit of the “Sunfish” system allows the consumer to tote the entire system with them if they happen to relocate to a different residence. The power modules, circuit monitors, and panels that make up the “Sunfish” are set to undergo thorough UL testing to certify the endurance and efficiency of the system.