Solar panel problems: What to know before making the switch

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Solar energy is environmentally friendly and the lower energy bill often advertised is rather tempting.  

But in some cases, it’s easier said than done. Eric Bolin thought he was doing a good deed and saving money when he decided to go green.  

Bolin said while using solar panels as a source of energy does reduce greenhouse gas emissions, he’s not seeing savings on his energy bill.  

In fact, he’s says he’s seen an increase in monthly payments. 

“It has not been worth it, it has not been worth it. It has been a real experience; it’s been a real battle,” Bolin said. 

Bolin made the switch to solar energy and had panels installed at his home in 2022.  

He said he wanted to do his part to promote sustainability and as a bonus, see a lower power bill.  

Instead, he said he’s paying $300 a month over the next 25 years for the panels and related equipment. On top of the monthly energy bill, that isn’t any cheaper than it was before.  

“I’m actually paying more for energy than a person that does not have solar panels. If I had it to do over again, knowing what I know now, I wouldn’t have done it,” Bolin said. 

He said he wants to warn people to do their research before signing up for solar and Duke Energy agrees. 

“I look at it this way, you’re going to buy a car? A lot of people look at consumer reports and look at all the internet stuff they can find out. You should do the same thing when you’re looking to go solar as well,” Duke Energy Spokesperson Randy Wheeless said. 

Wheeless said if you’re part, or going to be part, of a Homeowners’ Association take a look at the regulations; because you may be prohibited from adding solar panels to your home.  

More than anything, he wanted folks to understand the financial commitment behind the switch.  

“It is a big financial decision and one that’s going to be with you for about 20 years,” Wheeless said. 

“If anyone’s saying your electric bill is going to go to zero, or these solar panels are free of charge. Ya know, buyer beware, take that with a grain of salt there,” Wheeless said. 

Wheeless said he doesn’t want to discourage people from switching. But said he wants to be transparent about the process.