As more and more people become interested in climate change, there is continued interest in becoming more independent of foreign energy sources. 

What does energy independence technically even mean?    By definition, according to planete energies, energy independence is the ability of a country or region to meet all its energy needs without having to import primary or final energy. Energy is considered to be renewable when it's from a source that is constantly replenished.  The two main sources of renewable energy include the sun and the earth. 

For all intents and purposes of this article, installing solar PV is one of the most important ways to become energy independent.  This will allow you to own power and export the excess to the grid.  You will then be able to receive credit.  Solar panels give homeowners fixed energy prices while avoiding fluctuations from abroad.   

Here are some things to keep in mind when becoming energy efficient.

Reduce your carbon footprint

Reduce your energy consumption.  This includes reducing your carbon footprint.  Click here to read a full article about the many ways you can show your love for the earth with four simple ways.  Panels allow us to ultimately reduce our carbon footprint because the sun serves as an abundant source of energy. 

Off-hours usage

Trying to use electricity during the “off hours.”  This means using your stored electricity from your solar panels (you purchase from Guyou) in the morning or afternoon. Electrical companies typically charge more and see more usage from 4 pm until 10 pm. 

Consider a home battery system 

Another solution to becoming more energy efficient is to add a whole-home battery back-up system.  Since more solar power is available during the day yet consumed later at night, one solution is to use a small battery bank.  A small battery bank can serve as a back-up if your solar panels are not meeting all of your electrical needs.  However, many batteries have energy limitations as noted in this article here. 

Plan for the future

When you meet with a Guyou representative, they will ask for a utility bill and provide an estimate.  A consultant will quote enough solar panels to account for 80 to 100 percent of your energy consumption, however, it can be a good idea to size a system as high as 120 percent if you expect your consumption may go up in the future. 

Reap the rewards

Once you do decide to become independent of energy consumption, there are several benefits.   One of the most important benefits is the considerable savings you’ll see on your electric bill.  Plus you’ll also be able to control your energy usage.  Naturally, the higher your electricity bill the more money you’ll save.  In California, the average homeowner saves about $2,000 a year on their electric bill by switching. 

If you’d like to see how many solar panels your home will most likely need, click here for a quick estimate.  Give Guyou a call at (866)-Go-Guyou.  We give free assessments and are always happy to help!