Owner

I have an alcoa aluminum roof approximatly 20+ years old. I was planning on putting solar panels on the roof to offsett the high cost of electricity. But was informed that they couldn't put solar panels on a metal roof and this appears to be the position of other solar companies such as Semper Solaris a roofing and solar company, they made a blanket statement indicating that no one installs on metal roofs. However while researching this online I've found metal roof companies saying that it can be done, with the proper brackets or mounting styles. I contracted with a well rated solar company called Sunrun who does their solar panels purchase differently than other companies in that they basically lease the installed panels to you for 25yrs. Right now in California I'm under the gun the solar purchase rate will change after the 14th of this month from PG&E, from about .35 cents per hour to .08 cents after the 14th. All my paperwork is filed for the higher rate but then we hit this snag of installation. Can you send either me or Sunrun information on how to install the panels on my roof. Detailed instructions that perhaps only an installer would understand might be helpful or best. This might get me in, in time for the Grandfathered in higher rate. A roofer who saw my roof said he was amazed at how it looks like regular shake from the ground but up close it is metal. I was amazed when he said the roof should last a lifetime, unless of course if more panels get blown off by high winds. Do you agree with his lifetime estimate, he said all metal roofs could last that long. Alcoa didn't even mention it nor did the roof installers, but I guess the liability issues might make a claim like that a potential problem down the road. Hopefully you can help me with Sunrun. Thank You! Jim Wyman.