Smart Solar Design for a Wilbraham Home
Project Overview
When a Wilbraham homeowner wanted to cut their energy bills and upgrade their aging roof, they turned to Valley Solar for a complete solar solution that balanced efficiency, aesthetics, and smart design.
This project combined a new asphalt roof with a 10.1 kW solar array using REC high-performance panels and Tesla inverters, optimized for the home’s structure and electrical layout. The system now produces roughly 9,933 kWh per year, helping offset rising National Grid rates while preparing the home for future energy independence.
Customer Goals
The homeowner wanted a system that fit their property’s design, delivered strong production, and required no major electrical rework.
Replace the aging roof
Coordinate solar installation immediately after reroofing for maximum system lifespan.
Lower energy costs
Offset a large portion of household electricity usage with clean, renewable power.
Preserve finished interior space
Avoid modifying the tight main service panel location inside a finished area.
Seamless, reliable performance
Use durable, high-efficiency components from trusted manufacturers.
Valley Solar Solution
Problems Faced
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Tight main service panel — located in a small utility closet with no room for new breakers.
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Limited attic access — vaulted section above the garage prevented conduit runs through interior framing.
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Tight exterior clearances — minimal space between the meter and window for new electrical equipment.
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Finished interior space — required surface-mounted equipment in the garage without disturbing drywall.
Solutions
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Two Tesla Inverters — derated to 5 kW each, providing even load distribution across arrays.
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Garage Equipment Layout — inverters mounted neatly under shelving with easy service access.
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Custom Conduit Routing — ran externally along the house to maintain clean attic transitions.
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Tap Box Connection — connected at a 12×12 exterior tap box under the meter to avoid altering the MSP.
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Snow Guards Installed — for winter roof protection and safe snow management.
System Size
10.1 kW DC
Est. Year 1 Production
9,933 kWh
Impact
This solar system gives the Wilbraham homeowner the independence and financial relief they were looking for — without altering finished spaces or disrupting their home layout.
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Energy Savings — At $0.34 per kWh, the system saves about $3,377 annually on electricity.
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Sustainability — Produces over 9,900 kWh of clean energy each year, offsetting roughly 4.2 metric tons of CO₂ — the same as avoiding more than 10,000 miles of car emissions.
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Longevity — Installed after a new roof for decades of reliable service.
Est. Yearly Savings
$3,377 ($0.34/kWh)
CO₂ Offset
4.2 metric tons
