6 Reasons to Go Solar
While you’re likely aware that solar panels are an excellent source of renewable energy, you may have also heard that they can be quite expensive.
Solar panels indeed require a significant upfront investment, but did you know that the long-term cost savings and other benefits can easily make up for the initial installation price?
For many homeowners, the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits far outweigh the upfront cost of solar panels. If this sounds like it could be the case for you, look over this solar panel checklist for further consideration:
Checklist link – Home-owners-guide-to-solar-panels-printable-interactive
While solar panels are very efficient and easy to use, the way they work is anything but simple. Below is a detailed diagram of how a solar panel does its job –
[Checklist and infographic from – solartap.com/solar-101/solar-panels]
Let’s go over some of the top reasons why you should consider installing solar panels in your home:
Source of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy means it never runs out — unlike fossil fuels like coal and oil. Not only is solar energy better for the environment, but it’s also reliable. With solar panels, you can feel good about collecting and harnessing a never-ending source of energy to power your home.
Electricity Bill Savings
Solar panels can lead to long-term savings on your electricity bill. Solar systems produce power that you would normally pay a utility company for, which means a lower electric bill.
These savings take time, however — on average, homeowners who install solar panels will break even six to eight years from installation. After this point, you’ll essentially be generating electricity for free.
Tax Incentives
The federal and local governments offer various incentives for homeowners to invest in clean energy. The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, for example, deducts 30% of total solar system installation costs from your taxes for systems installed between 2022 and 2032. Some local governments and utility companies may also offer rebates or partial refunds for the cost of installing solar panels.
Less Reliance on the Utility Grid
Since your solar panels will be generating renewable energy, you won’t need to rely on power from a utility company. This means you can live a bit more independently from the grid. (Although, since not all the solar energy you generate will be used right away, you can essentially sell that energy back to the electric grid).
Improved Home Value
As long as you own your solar panel system (as opposed to renting it), solar panels will increase your home’s value over time. While the actual added value varies based on your location, homes with solar energy systems sold for 4.1% more on average from March 2018 to 2019.
Long Lifespan
Most solar systems have a lifespan of 25-30 years, which means you won’t have to worry about your electricity for several decades. Solar panels are also built with durability in mind — they have the ability to withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Plus, technological breakthroughs in solar energy will continue to make panels even more durable and less expensive over time.