The Aesthetics of Solar Panels – What Say You?

Solar panel aesthetics – This is an interesting question from a reader that is particularly relevant as more homes in the Charlottesville and Albemarle area are installing solar panels, many thanks to the Solarize Charlottesville program (archived: 2015).

“We live in a south facing ranch house in Charlottesville. We have been considering solar installation. The south facing aspect cuts a few ways – it is technically excellent for a solar installation.

However, it would be right up front in terms of “curb appeal” – or lack thereof. Since I cannot honestly be sure we will be in the house for the duration of potential payback on the investment, this issue about how solar is perceived by potential future buyers is something I am thinking about.

Also, in terms of timeliness, 2016 may be the last year with useful tax credits. The way utilities view domestic solar installations is also a big unknown (i.e. susceptible to change in the future). Some states have seen utilities charge significant connection charges on a monthly basis (like up to $50) to account for the fact that solar users, from the utility’s perspective, are not paying their share of the fixed costs of electricity distribution.

I thought this question would be of interest to a wider audience.”

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My quick thoughts:

• Solar panels are not the most attractive
• Solar systems are perceived as complex things by buyers; simplifying the presentation of the system.
• I wonder/am concerned about how the systems will age.
• If the panels can be seen prominently from the street, I believe that some buyers will see the panels as a negative.
• Would I install them on my house? If I knew I would be there for at least 10 years.
• One note – I’m going to share this story on twitter & facebook; I suspect I’ll get a few comments there, so I’ll add those comments to this story via storify.

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Images courtesy of.

One and two.

Facebook won’t let me embed the comments from the facebook post; I’m copy and pasting:

bad for resell(sic)? i would think no power bill, regardless of appearance, would make that a no-brainer… plus the ITC(investment tax credit) was just extended for 5 more years, i’m only pointing that out, because your article contains dated information.

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… the HOA in OT has finally seen the light in that they are embracing solar and using solar as a pitch for new builds. surprising 180deg, if you ask me (welcome)

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Usually an eyesore, but good for a home. I’d purchase one.

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Would be a plus for us

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aesthetically insignificant

And from Twitter: