The instant you buy the panels they will not be worthless. I would think they would raise your real-estate value or could be sold used. Perhaps weigh in your resale value and compare the cost payback of the panels to the interest rate your money makes in the bank/401k/

I was able to get a solar panel that they use to keep Volkswagen batteries charged on the lot or the boat over to the USA used for around $20 off eBay. Your prices seem pretty high to me.

I probably should take a look at my usage. But the minute I fire up the TIG welder I shoot it all to hell.