Meet Allan: He’s Using Solar to Power his Electrified Home
When Allan first started exploring solar for his Vermont home, his goal was simple: generate clean energy and reduce his reliance on traditional utility power. A few years later, that original project has grown into a larger system in order to power his additional electric needs, including heat pumps and two electric vehicles. He also added battery backup to keep his home running no matter what.
Starting with the Right Foundation
Allan’s solar journey began in 2021 at his Woodstock home. Like many homeowners, he faced a few unexpected challenges before installation could begin. Because of wetlands on the property and local setback requirements, his original plan for a ground-mounted array wasn’t feasible.
Rather than abandoning the project, Allan worked with SunCommon to find a creative solution: a solar canopy. The final design included 24 panels on a canopy that is now a feature of his yard. At the time, those panels handled all of his electrical needs.
As Allan’s household became increasingly electrified, his energy consumption naturally increased. Over time, his family added two electric vehicles, installed mini-split heat pumps, and upgraded to an electric water heating system. Rather than relying on more electricity from the grid, Allan chose to expand his solar production.
Recently, added more panels on his roof, significantly increasing his system’s total output. Along with his rooftop solar array, Allen added Tesla Powerwall batteries to store energy and keep everything running during power outages. Allen’s house now has everything it needs, rain or shine!
Purchase vs. Lease
When evaluating solar financing options, Allan decided a cash purchase made the most sense for his situation.
Rather than committing to a long-term lease agreement, he preferred owning the system outright and capturing the full financial benefits over time. For homeowners who have the available capital, ownership often provides the greatest long-term value, although every family’s financial situation is different.
The decision has allowed Allan to fully benefit from the energy savings generated by the system while maintaining complete control over future upgrades and expansions.
Working with SunCommon
Before moving forward, Allan contacted multiple solar companies. Ultimately, he selected SunCommon because our advisor was highly organized, responsive, and able to manage the complexities of his site.
From wetlands surveys to system design and permitting, having a knowledgeable team helped move the project forward efficiently. That confidence continued through the recent rooftop solar expansion, which Allan says was completed by a SunCommon’s local installation crew that worked efficiently, respected the property, and was able to integrate the new equipment with the existing system. The entire installation was completed in a matter of hours, with electricians making use of existing conduits to simplify the upgrade process.
Looking Ahead
For Allan, the project represents more than just adding solar panels. It’s part of a larger commitment to electrifying his home and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. By pairing solar with electric vehicles, heat pumps, battery storage, and efficient appliances, he’s created a system that generates all the energy his household needs each day.
His advice to homeowners considering solar is simple: think beyond your current energy needs. If you’re planning to add an electric vehicle, heat pump, or other electric technologies in the future, solar can help power that transition.