Sunny California is a great place to live for anyone interested in making the switch to solar power. With plenty of sunny days, California residents can rack up savings and help fight climate change by using solar power.

One hurdle for homeowners, however, can be the look of solar panels arrays. Unfortunately, the typical picture many people get in their mind when they think of solar panels is large, industrial-looking set-ups.

There have also been homeowners’ association horror stories when it comes to solar power. Despite the California Solar Rights Act, which limits the restrictions homeowners’ associations can put on solar panels, many still try to fight arrays that are deemed unappealing. Within the past couple of years, multiple homeowners have faced challenges from their homeowners’ association in the California area.

Fortunately, solar arrays have gotten more stylish over the years and less obtrusive. So, whether a California homeowner is trying to retain their home’s curb appeal or dealing with a stubborn homeowners’ association, there is likely an aesthetically pleasing solution available.

Location, Location, Location

Roof mounted solar power systems are very common and probably what most people think of when considering solar arrays. There are some great reasons to go with a roof mounted system – roofs are generally unused space and tend to get more sun than other parts of houses and properties.

Despite their popularity, roofs aren’t always the best choice when installing solar panels. Depending on the roof’s shape, the solar array might be front and center, detracting from the home’s overall look. Also because of age and other factors, a roof might not be able to support a solar power system, necessitating costly home renovations before installation.

One alternative to a roof solar array is installing panels on a carport or trellis. Like roofs, the tops of trellises and carports are generally unused so adding solar power doesn’t eat up living or recreation room. The typical flat tops of trellises and carports help shield solar panels from the view on the ground. And if a homeowner wants to install a new carport or trellis to accommodate solar power, they can choose a location that gets the most sunlight.

Another option is a ground mounted system. Put in the backyard or on the edge of a large property, ground mounted systems don’t distract from a home’s aesthetics. For homeowners with enough ground space that isn’t shaded by trees or buildings, a ground mounted solar system can be an effective and non-obtrusive way to switch to solar power.

California remains one of the best places in the world to make a residential solar power investment.

For more information on how to calculate solar energy ROI or to request a solar evaluation to assess your property’s ability to produce solar, contact Solcius for a free quote.