Frugal and Energy Efficient Living

but last yr I connected my system to the grid. I like being connected to the grid because I hated the upkeep of the batteries and not being able to use electric heaters.
I have 2000 watts of panels so I have no electric bill about 7 months of the yr (except for a $16 fee per month) and in the winter I can run electric heaters and still have a very low bill. I have most of my panels on the roof and a few on some posts.
I would definitely check online to compare the prices you were given. I live in NM but bought almost everything online because the prices were cheaper even including shipping. You could start with a few panels and increase wattage over the yrs. I started with 1000 watts.
Check out the prices of Wholesale Solar in California. I bought some panels from them at a good price but found a better price in the mid west for my inverter. I also hired a electrician who specializes in solar energy systems; he was way cheaper than the guys who work for the solar stores.

I love watching my meter run backwards!!