There are some factors you may want to consider before literally buying your solar panels
Make sure your on grid lifestyle is ready. Most homes on the electric grid will be able to support solar, but considering certified installers and the right technology for Net-Energy-Metering, are just as important as buying your panels.
What effects your efficiency, or makes them ‘more usable’
Considering what types of panels you buy will be the greatest difference to efficiency, for instance, Monocrystalline solar panel cells are more efficient than the standard Pollycrystalline blue solar panels. However, you can also consider things like
Angle the panels are in terms of facing the rising and setting sun
Solar panels still work in the fog or the snow, but making sure they are clean will be a big factor in their efficiency levels.
Sizing your system
You need to base your system size on a few more factors
What is the size of your home
What is the average electric value from solar
How much credits do you want from NEM, (If you are considering an on-grid lifestyle), or a hybrid model where you store, and receive credits.
Here is a good resource HahaSmart’s online solar panel price checker can help you with everything from finding the best prices that are an average of 25% below the average market value of home solar, to making sure your installation is certified, qualified, and just as well priced as your purchase items for the panels and accessories. Plus, the price checker does it all so you do not have to do any of the heavy lifting.