The best solar company should have certifications from the Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, accreditation from the Better Business Bureau and a history of outfitting homes with efficient solar panels. Look for longevity as well, since that can indicate stability.
Find out whether a company offers financing options like leases, PPAs and third-party loans. Also, make sure the plan you sign includes a power-production guarantee. For professional help, contact The Amp Solar Company.
1. Reduced Electricity Bills
A solar company is a great resource for anyone interested in cutting down their electricity costs through sustainable energy. On average, homeowners with solar panels save PS450 a year on their electricity bills. This amount is even higher if they export excess energy back to the grid. Homeowners can also take advantage of a number of financial incentives offered by the government, such as the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and California state rebates, to make the switch to solar more affordable.
These rebates and incentives significantly lower the initial cost of a residential solar system, speeding up the time it takes to recoup costs through energy savings. Additionally, by generating their own electricity, homeowners become less dependent on the local utility, mitigating the impact of rising energy rates and other fluctuations in the electric grid.
Solar energy companies evaluate your site and electricity usage, then design a custom solar system that fits your needs. Then, they’ll install the system at your property and perform a site inspection to ensure that everything is in working order.
After your installation, you’ll have a choice to purchase the solar system or lease it through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). With either option, you can start seeing immediate savings on your electricity bills. Whether you buy or lease, solar will reduce your reliance on the grid and help you cut down on your carbon footprint.
When choosing a solar company, be wary of those that overpromise on their energy savings through false statements like “never pay your utility bill again.” It’s also important to consider whether you want to purchase the system outright or if a PPA or lease makes more sense. If you do decide on a lease or PPA, make sure it has a power-production guarantee and is transferable in the event that you sell your home.
2. Lower Carbon Emissions
The goal of a solar company is to make it as easy as possible for homeowners to make the switch to renewable energy. By offering incentives like tax credits, PPAs and leases, these companies make it more affordable for people to invest in a clean energy alternative. This is a great way to help lower carbon emissions and combat climate change.
Solar power is one of the least carbon-intensive means of electricity generation. It emits no greenhouse gases during production and its life-cycle emissions are considerably less than fossil fuels. In fact, if society increased its reliance on this remarkably abundant resource, we could mitigate climate change while stimulating economies, creating jobs and increasing grid integrity and security.
Aside from the environmental impact, solar energy provides a number of financial benefits for the homeowner. In the short term, it reduces the amount of money that must be paid for energy via the grid, and, in some states, it can even result in a net cash flow from the power-purchase agreement. Long-term, solar technology can increase the value of a property.
Additionally, solar energy can help businesses achieve carbon neutrality and create more resilient supply chains. For example, replacing boiler fuel and process heating requirements with solar energy can slash emissions, while lowering operational costs.
Finally, solar energy can also improve indoor air quality by reducing nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter emissions. These pollutants can cause a host of health problems, including chronic bronchitis and respiratory issues. By switching to solar, businesses can significantly cut these harmful emissions and benefit their employees’ health. This can lead to a healthier workplace and a more productive business.
3. Increased Home Value
Almost all home owners who have solar power report that their homes are worth more than similar ones without them, according to a recent Zillow study. If you own your solar energy system instead of leasing it, you can transfer the contract to a new homeowner when it comes time for you to sell.
This is an excellent way to offset upfront costs and enjoy the benefits of lower electricity bills for many years before you need to pay them off, assuming your local utility company will allow it. Depending on the size of your solar panel array and the state in which you live, you may also be eligible for a tax credit when you sell your house.
Solar energy systems can also add value to your home by reducing its reliance on the grid and boosting its eco-friendly reputation. Additionally, most states have net-metering policies that ensure utilities buy back excess energy from homeowners. These factors can make a property more appealing to potential buyers, especially in areas with high and fluctuating electricity rates.
In addition to increasing your home’s resale value, installing solar panels can help you avoid paying higher property taxes. This is because most localities tax only the portion of your property that is used for business purposes. Fortunately, this isn’t the case everywhere, and in some places, your solar power system can reduce your property taxes altogether.
If you want to increase your chances of getting a good deal on a new solar energy system, take the time to research the companies you are considering. Look at customer reviews and complaints online, and check out the Better Business Bureau. Lastly, ask your friends and neighbors about their experiences with local solar companies. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
4. Reduced Maintenance Costs
While solar panels don’t require any active maintenance, they do need to be inspected regularly and cleaned. If you’re looking for a lower upfront cost and more peace of mind, consider an operations and maintenance (O&M) service package that covers cleaning, inspections, electrical system checks, pest control measures, and other services. These plans typically cost a few hundred dollars per year.
A solar company should provide a thorough site evaluation, including an assessment of your electricity usage and the suitability of your home or business for solar energy. They should also be familiar with all available government incentives and rebates that can reduce the up-front costs of going solar.
When choosing a solar company, look for a reputable brand with a strong track record and customer satisfaction. Make sure they carry quality panels that come with a 25-year performance warranty and 10-year product and workmanship warranty. Look for a solar company that prioritizes energy efficiency and offers installation of other renewable energy systems, such as battery storage or microgeneration systems.
Some homeowners can finance their solar panel purchase through a mortgage or home equity line of credit, which is tax-deductible in most states. However, these options can be complicated and require a significant amount of upfront capital, so it’s best to consult with a qualified financial professional before making a decision.
5. Increased Home Value
As solar continues to gain popularity, home buyers are willing to pay more for homes with solar panels. This boost in resale value makes it easier for homeowners to sell their property and enjoy the benefits of ownership. In fact, a study published in The Appraisal Journal found that home values increase by $20 for every $1 reduction in energy costs. So, a homeowner who saves $800 a year on electricity will see their home’s value rise by $10,000.
To get the highest resale value from your solar energy system, it’s important to ensure that your solar installation is in good condition. If your panels are damaged or outdated, they won’t produce as much energy and may be less appealing to potential home buyers. It’s also a good idea to keep your equipment and labor warranties up-to-date, which can increase the resale value of your solar panel installation.
It’s also important to understand your state and local incentives before investing in a solar system. Many states have incentives, rebates, and tax credits that can help you lower your upfront costs. Some even have net metering laws, which allow utility companies to pay you for any excess energy your system produces. If you’re in a region with higher electricity rates, these incentives can make it more cost-effective to install a solar system.
A solar company can help you choose the right system for your home and take advantage of these state, local, and federal incentives. By choosing a reputable and experienced solar company, you can reduce your energy bills, protect the environment, and increase your home’s value. Contact a local solar expert today to learn more about your options.