Ballpark cost of updating panels/inverters on existing system

[beegee2]

I have an existing 5Kwh system that was installed about 13 years ago. It's 3 rows of 7 Kyocera 235W panels with enphase inverters. It has served me well, but I'm interested in getting more energy out. I've contacted a local installer and they have proposed replacing two of the rows with 6 Q Cell Q Tron 430w panels and Enphase inverters that will occupy basically the same space as the 2 rows they would replace. This would boost my production roughly 50% and extend the lifetime, at least for the new panels/inverters 25 years.
The racking and wiring to the roof would be used as-is, so basically:
- planning/permitting, etc.
- remove old panels/inverters (I want to keep them for possible future project)
- install newer panels/inverters (I assume new panel wiring harnesses will be required, but tie into existing lead to downstream panel)
- inspections
I've been quoted 13K for this upgrade. It qualifies for federal tax credit, but it seems high for me given racking and downstream in place wiring is being used.
There aren't many installers in the area (Raleigh NC), and the others I've contacted don't seem interested in the job.
Can anyone suggest if this quote is reasonable, or has a lot of margin built in?

Thanks

 

[sunshine_eggo]

IMHO, it's going to be higher than a new install because of the removal of the old equipment, and I'm sure they'll insist on replacing portions of the installation that you think are reusable.

 

[zanydroid]

Residential rooftop solar always has a lot of margin built in.

You can price out the panels and microinverters yourself.

You probably need new System Combiner to get the full Enphase warranty and monitoring.

You may need a new branch circuit, maximum allowed on one is 16A*240V, I guess they can glom onto half filled existing one of yours.

This kind of job is probably 1.5 days * 2 people

Factor in more surprises for a careful demo than build from scratch. For instance maybe they can’t determine the type of rails you have, or the compatible official clamps with pre done engineering are no longer available. And they have to get engineering stamps as a result or burn a day of work after detecting that

 

[robbob2112]

Wouldn't surprise me if part of the racking needs replaced or reworked for the new panels

 

[zanydroid]

Honestly I think the contractor saying the racking can be reused for a permitted install is maybe overly optimistic or deceitful

Maybe if it’s like IronRidge or other exceeds code/platinum plated racking system

 

[MikeInKingman]

There is also your Utility to consider.
Will this upgrade exceed the rating you have for your current interconnect with them?
The utility may also force you to modify whatever your current agreement with them is, since you are increasing the size of your PV system.

 

[beegee2]

There is also your Utility to consider.
Will this upgrade exceed the rating you have for your current interconnect with them?
The utility may also force you to modify whatever your current agreement with them is, since you are increasing the size of your PV system.

Yes. I made a note to ask the prospective installer if my utility agreement will change at all. I know here in NC Duke energy's treatment of customers with residential PV systems is becoming less and less favorable.

 

[beegee2]

Thanks for the responses. All things to factor in. I did look up the cost of panels and inverters and my rough calculation was this would be roughly half of the cost. So roughly half would be for labor for paperwork, demo, install. I've seen rates of $2/w or $2.25/w as typical cost for install in my area which equates to a couple thousand less that what was quoted. I guess I can request if they're willing to drop the cost 2k and see where it goes.

 

[Siamac]

Thanks for the responses. All things to factor in. I did look up the cost of panels and inverters and my rough calculation was this would be roughly half of the cost. So roughly half would be for labor for paperwork, demo, install. I've seen rates of $2/w or $2.25/w as typical cost for install in my area which equates to a couple thousand less that what was quoted. I guess I can request if they're willing to drop the cost 2k and see where it goes.

Where did it go?

 

[beegee2]

I've put this project on hold for now. I asked if the installer I had contacted would consider dropping the cost, but no luck, and I don't think I can justify the cost given how long it would take to recovery the investment. I'm considering DIY now. I've done enough investigation to verify the existing wiring from roof junction down is suitable to handle larger production, so it would mainly be panels, inverters, panel harness, and permitting. The later being the biggest concern.

 

[Solar Guppy]

If you already have a permitted system what is the permit for?

If your HVAC company puts in a new heat pump that is 50% more efficient, do they pull a permit, how about a traditional water heater to a heat pump one?

Just change the parts you want, if your ever questioned just say is was a repair