Currently, there are enough solar power installations in the USA to power over 17 million solar energy homes.
Would you like to join this number? Are you wondering how to switch to solar energy, or if it’s a good fit for you?
There are a few things you need to consider before you make the change. Keep reading to find out what they are.
1. Does Your Home Suit Solar Energy?
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Solar panels can still do their job in low light conditions, but they generate less electricity when skies are gray. So if your home’s overshadowed by trees, or you live in a rainy place, you’ll need more panels to meet your energy needs.
A qualified and experienced solar installer can advise you on the feasibility of going solar and the types of solar panels that might suit your home.
Once you’ve got this information, it’s easy to calculate if installing solar will help bring down your electricity bills enough to make the extra expense worthwhile.
Experts suggest that if you spend over $300 on power bills every quarter, you’re a good candidate for solar power.
2. How Much Electricity Do You Need?
Most residential properties require between six and 12 kilowatts of energy. You can calculate your energy needs by adding up the power requirements of each appliance in your house.
The higher the total, the more solar panels you’ll need. Remember, you don’t use all your appliances at once, so you can cut down your energy needs with the judicious use of appliances.
Energy Star appliances, tankless water heaters, and LED lights can help cut down your energy consumption too.
3. Can You Afford to Install Solar?
Solar installations are becoming cheaper all the time. According to https://blueravensolar.com/idaho/, the cost of solar panels has declined by 38% in the last five years.
Nowadays, homeowners pay around $2.81/W, so you’re looking at paying about $16,800 for a 6 kW system. At this rate, most solar installations will pay for themselves within 20 years.
4. What Incentives Can You Benefit From?
The federal tax incentive for 2021 is 26%. You can deduct this percentage from your annual tax return.
Most states, and some power companies, offer additional incentives when you install solar. You should deduct these savings when calculating the actual cost of your solar panel installation.
5. Solar Energy Homes Are Cost-Effective
You can get a solar loan for this energy-efficient home improvement project, as well as special offers and further discounts from solar power companies.
If you engage with a power company, you can still use power from the electricity grid when needed. In return, you’ll return your excess solar power to the grid.
When the power company bills you, they’ll deduct the cost of what you’ve given back from the total due.
If you opt for an off-grid solar home, you’ll never pay a power bill again.
Weighing Up the Cost of Solar
Solar energy homes save you money, protect the environment, and are an appealing option for prospective homebuyers.
So, stop wondering about how to install solar panels, and start doing the math. If you can figure out a way to afford a solar panel installation, it’s the ultimate way to go.
Find out more about ways to save money thanks to technology and modern-day innovations by browsing our website.
