(Photo courtesy of E2 Solar)
As homebuyers in Central Oregon increasingly seek energy-efficient, environmentally friendly homes, custom builders have a unique opportunity to set themselves apart by integrating solar energy into new construction.
The benefits are clear: the U.S. Department of Energy reports that adding solar panels to new homes can increase sale prices and attract more buyers in a competitive market. In fact, nearly 40 percent of real estate listings now highlight green features, and 31 percent of real estate professionals say that solar panels boost a home’s perceived value, according to the National Association of REALTORS.
With solar adoption on the rise, incorporating this technology early in the design and construction process is a smart business strategy for custom home builders.
Why Bring Solar into the Conversation Early?
To effectively integrate solar into new construction, we’ve found it’s ideal when the builder, solar installer, and homeowner can communicate openly and coordinate together from the start. By doing so, we align expectations, optimize system design, and simplify the installation process. There are many benefits to this approach:
Accurate System Sizing: When the solar installer can ask the homeowner questions about anticipated energy use, number of occupants, and plans for electric vehicles or other high-consumption devices, we are able to recommend an appropriately sized system. While sizing can be challenging without a usage history, experienced installers work closely with homeowners to estimate needs and plan for future expansion.
Design Flexibility: Early planning with professional solar installers allows architects and builders to design roof layouts to avoid vents or obstructions on planes that are best suited for solar panels. Such collaboration makes for an efficient system that is harmonious with the home’s overall design.
Seamless Integration & Aesthetics: Pre-wiring allows conduit and wiring to be concealed within walls, resulting in a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing installation. This is important in modern homes with minimal attic space (designs that are becoming more common in the Bend area).
Cost and Time Savings: It’s faster and less expensive to install conduit and make electrical panel upgrades during construction, rather than retrofitting after the home is built, which often requires cutting into walls or running external conduit.
Simplified Permitting and Incentives: By planning early, the necessary permits can be secured, and homeowners can take full advantage of incentives (like the 30% federal tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, as well as state/local rebates).
Clear Expectations: Early conversations between all parties help set realistic expectations about what solar can achieve and the potential need to add panels in the future.
Curb Appeal and Value: Solar as part of the initial design blends seamlessly with the home’s architecture and maximizes both curb appeal and resale value.
Future-Proofing: Pre-wiring for solar makes it easy for homeowners to add panels, battery storage, or electric vehicle charging stations in the future (without major renovations).
Design and Construction Considerations
During a new home’s construction, builders may also want to consider these design and structural factors:
Roof Design and Orientation: The roof’s orientation, pitch, and shading significantly impact solar panel performance. South-facing or east-west roofs with slopes between 15 and 40 degrees are ideal for energy production. Early collaboration with solar professionals allows builders and architects to strategically position vents and chimneys to minimize shading and maximize usable space for panels.
Structural and Electrical: The roof structure should be able to safely support the weight of solar panels and mounting hardware. The home’s electrical panel should also be sized appropriately to accommodate solar generation and future expansions like battery storage or EV charging. Addressing these considerations during construction is more cost-effective than retrofitting later.
Energy Efficiency: Incorporating features like high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows, and smart appliances reduces the home’s overall energy demand. This allows for a smaller, more cost-effective solar system, improving its performance (and its return on investment).
Why Work With an Experienced Solar Partner?
We recommend partnering with a solar company that understands the unique challenges associated with new construction. Experienced solar installers are familiar with working alongside architects, builders, and homeowners, and know how to integrate a system into the home’s design and construction timeline. This technical expertise helps avoid common pitfalls, simplifies the installation process, and ensures that the homeowner’s current and future energy needs are met.
e2solar.com • 20784 NE High Desert Ln., Bend • 888-668-0478
