Is Solar Worth It?
Governments, businesses, and consumers are increasingly supporting the development of alternative energy sources and new technologies for electricity generation. Solar power is becoming one of the most popular renewable energy choices, as it has a nearly inexhaustible supply source. Yes, installing residential solar is definitely worth it. Here’s why.
Cost Savings
With prices falling rapidly, installing home solar panels can dramatically trim your energy bills. New technology has sent solar prices plummeting more than 60% in the past several years, so the time it takes to recoup what you paid for your system, also known as the payback period, is shorter than ever. Google’s Project Sunroof is in the process of helping homeowners to determine their potential home solar panel savings.
Tax Credits
Homeowners who buy their panels — instead of leasing them — can claim a federal tax credit worth 30% of their purchase at tax season, which translates into a $6,000 return on a $20,000 home solar system. Taxpayers can also roll over any unused credit for future years. Some states even offer an additional personal tax credit. Check out this database of state incentives for renewables and efficiency to see if your state offers additional incentives.
Electricity Costs
There are no guarantees regarding how large electricity price increases will be in the future or how often they will occur. With the costs of electricity fluctuating, the cost of producing your own solar is a constant. Check out this US Energy Information Administration breakout to see how your state’s electricity compares to other states.
Increases Home Value
A study found that resale values increase an average of $4 for each additional solar watt installed. Home buyers consistently have been willing to pay more for homes with host-owned solar photovoltaic (PV) energy systems. If you were to decide to put your solar-equipped house on the market, you’d have a competitive advantage over comps in your area, as buyers will prefer a home with a solar system already in place.
Less Dependence on the Grid
When you generate your own electricity through solar, you reduce your and your community’s dependence on the grid. Solar power production facilities can be installed at your own residential site, which reduces required investments in production and transportation infrastructure. Stand-alone photovoltaic systems produce power independent of the utility grid. They are especially appropriate for remote, environmentally sensitive areas, such as cabins and other vacation homes.
Solar Panel Longevity
Solar panels are built to last. They are constructed to withstand 80-mph straight winds and golf-ball-sized hail impacts. You won’t have to worry about replacing solar panels due to wear and tear, as they’re sturdy, reliable, and lasting.
More Installers Every Year
The solar industry is growing significantly, and there are now many choices for solar installers in all the US. The US has been a leader in developing the solar power industry, creating thousands of clean energy jobs. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners can help you find a certified solar installer with their certified locator.
Do Your Part to Limit Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Shrink your carbon footprint with solar! When we use fossil fuels to make our electricity, we are contributing to rising global temperatures and climate change. While most of the electricity generated in the US comes from fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, solar energy is clean and endlessly renewable. Generating electricity using solar power can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which lead to global warming. According to a study by the US Energy Information Administration, switching from fossil fuels to solar power is the equivalent of planting 155 trees every year. The study also found that choosing solar panels cuts out the same of carbon emissions that comes from burning 5000 pounds of coal each year.
Physical Infrastructure for Solar Panels
Some basic elements need to be in place for homeowners to have the best popular solar installation. The more sunlight, the better is a good starting place. This map will help you to see how much sun your state gets. If your home has a good southerly, southwest, or southeast exposure, that is optimal. If your roof is unobscured by shadows from dormers, chimneys, or trees, that’s another plus.
Definitely, it’s time to check out solar for your home. Solar power generation has so many advantages over other forms of electricity generation -- it’s a wonder we haven’t turned to it sooner!
To know more: Cost of Solar
Cost Savings
With prices falling rapidly, installing home solar panels can dramatically trim your energy bills. New technology has sent solar prices plummeting more than 60% in the past several years, so the time it takes to recoup what you paid for your system, also known as the payback period, is shorter than ever. Google’s Project Sunroof is in the process of helping homeowners to determine their potential home solar panel savings.
Tax Credits
Homeowners who buy their panels — instead of leasing them — can claim a federal tax credit worth 30% of their purchase at tax season, which translates into a $6,000 return on a $20,000 home solar system. Taxpayers can also roll over any unused credit for future years. Some states even offer an additional personal tax credit. Check out this database of state incentives for renewables and efficiency to see if your state offers additional incentives.
Electricity Costs
There are no guarantees regarding how large electricity price increases will be in the future or how often they will occur. With the costs of electricity fluctuating, the cost of producing your own solar is a constant. Check out this US Energy Information Administration breakout to see how your state’s electricity compares to other states.
Increases Home Value
A study found that resale values increase an average of $4 for each additional solar watt installed. Home buyers consistently have been willing to pay more for homes with host-owned solar photovoltaic (PV) energy systems. If you were to decide to put your solar-equipped house on the market, you’d have a competitive advantage over comps in your area, as buyers will prefer a home with a solar system already in place.
Less Dependence on the Grid
When you generate your own electricity through solar, you reduce your and your community’s dependence on the grid. Solar power production facilities can be installed at your own residential site, which reduces required investments in production and transportation infrastructure. Stand-alone photovoltaic systems produce power independent of the utility grid. They are especially appropriate for remote, environmentally sensitive areas, such as cabins and other vacation homes.
Solar Panel Longevity
Solar panels are built to last. They are constructed to withstand 80-mph straight winds and golf-ball-sized hail impacts. You won’t have to worry about replacing solar panels due to wear and tear, as they’re sturdy, reliable, and lasting.
More Installers Every Year
The solar industry is growing significantly, and there are now many choices for solar installers in all the US. The US has been a leader in developing the solar power industry, creating thousands of clean energy jobs. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners can help you find a certified solar installer with their certified locator.
Do Your Part to Limit Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Shrink your carbon footprint with solar! When we use fossil fuels to make our electricity, we are contributing to rising global temperatures and climate change. While most of the electricity generated in the US comes from fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, solar energy is clean and endlessly renewable. Generating electricity using solar power can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which lead to global warming. According to a study by the US Energy Information Administration, switching from fossil fuels to solar power is the equivalent of planting 155 trees every year. The study also found that choosing solar panels cuts out the same of carbon emissions that comes from burning 5000 pounds of coal each year.
Physical Infrastructure for Solar Panels
Some basic elements need to be in place for homeowners to have the best popular solar installation. The more sunlight, the better is a good starting place. This map will help you to see how much sun your state gets. If your home has a good southerly, southwest, or southeast exposure, that is optimal. If your roof is unobscured by shadows from dormers, chimneys, or trees, that’s another plus.
Definitely, it’s time to check out solar for your home. Solar power generation has so many advantages over other forms of electricity generation -- it’s a wonder we haven’t turned to it sooner!
To know more: Cost of Solar
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