Originally posted by Brettski:
The special refrigerator, special wiring and lighting fixtures if you want to operate at 12v for efficiency. I can't begin to remember the list of unusual changes that would be required...but it was all based on low energy draw.
This where I am finding where the real cost differences are. If you are planning on running efficiency lights and appliances then the initial system cost is cheaper. But if you are going with standard lighting and appliances and A/C then up goes the initial investment.
Originally posted by Brettski:
The last big drawback is the market-ability of a home product that is powered in this manner. Like all investments, you gotta consider the "what if I sell it?" scenario. I gotta believe that the market segment narrows considerably for a solar powered home. I think that is probably the final nail in the coffin.
Interesting, in California off grid solar or even grid tied solar homes typically sell for more than a standard grid tied home. Fortunately as you mentioned Brettski, California does have some very good tax incentives for alternative energy purchases.
