Benefits of a Solar Home System
Solar energy is becoming more and more popular, with many homeowners switching to solar power for their homes. This is because of the various benefits that solar energy offers.
Home solar systems can start saving you money in (relatively) short order. But before you decide to switch to solar, be sure to consider all of the pros and cons.
Cost-Effectiveness
A solar energy system can be cost-effective and pay for itself over time. Homeowners may choose to purchase their system in cash or a number of other options including solar loans, leases and power purchase agreements (PPA). A solar professional can survey your home and determine the optimal size of solar panel system for your energy needs. They can also help you explore state and local incentives like tax credits, rebates and net metering programs to offset the upfront cost of the system.
A standard grid-tie solar system replaces utility electricity with self-generated solar power to lower homeowner’s electric bills. By combining this with an intelligent inverter and battery backup, homeowners can achieve energy independence, even during outages caused by weather, climate, fires, line maintenance and more.
The cost of solar energy has been decreasing rapidly as the industry grows, making it more affordable for homeowners to invest in a renewable energy system. In addition, federal and state-level incentives can further reduce the initial investment. For many, the return on their investment in a home solar energy system is greater than they expected. This, coupled with rising electricity rates, makes a solar energy system an excellent long-term investment for many homeowners.
Environment-Friendly
A solar home system produces electricity that helps reduce pollution. The use of this energy source is a great way to avoid carbon dioxide emissions that are the leading cause of climate change. The sun’s natural radiation is clean, so it doesn’t release pollutants into the atmosphere and water supply like fossil fuels.
A SHS consists of one or more PV modules consisting of solar cells, a charge controller which distributes power and protects appliances from damage, and at least one battery to store energy for use when the sun isn’t shining. This energy solution provides access to basic electric appliances (lighting, radio, TV, mobile SOLAR HOME SYSTEM phone charging etc) for billions of people who lack access to the grid and have to rely on expensive and inefficient kerosene or gas or a diesel generator for their power needs.
These systems also help save money and avoid greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the use of conventional energy resources like kerosene, gas or dry cell batteries as well as replacing diesel generators for electricity generation. This contributes to the improved health and livelihood of families as they are able to work longer hours at night.
A solar home system is a sustainable solution to the global power crisis. It also helps increase energy security and independence for millions of families who live off the grid in Sub-Saharan Africa. These systems are being deployed in partnership with local NGOs to increase rural and remote electrification and support economic development.
Energy Savings
With minimal long-term costs, a solar system can help you save money on your electricity bills. However, it’s important to understand the upfront costs and savings involved before committing to solar. This calculator from NerdWallet helps you determine whether solar makes financial sense for your home.
When choosing a solar company, look for one that offers an affordable financing plan and a competitive warranty. Many companies will also offer incentives to encourage homeowners to take advantage of solar, such as a federal investment tax credit.
A reputable solar company will visit your home to perform a comprehensive assessment, including a roof inspection. While parts of this process can be done remotely by comparing satellite images to a property’s roof, it’s best to have an experienced professional come out in person. This allows them to assess the health of your roof and take into account tree growth, which could affect the amount of energy your home will produce.
They’ll also review your electric bill to see how much of your energy consumption is from non-solar sources and what size system will cover that use. They’ll then provide a proposal, which will likely include a breakdown of labor and permit fees, sales taxes and utility interconnection fees. They’ll also make sure that your system meets standard electrical and roof setback codes. Depending on your current electricity usage, you may also want to consider adding an energy storage system to further reduce your electric bill and protect against outages or high electricity rates.
Increased Resale Value
In addition to financial benefits, solar energy systems add resale value to a home. In fact, a recent study found that homes with solar power sold for 4.1% more than similar non-solar homes. And a previous study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that for every dollar saved on utility bills, a property’s value increases $20.
This is important to consider if you’re planning on selling your home in the future. It’s not uncommon for homebuyers to look at upgrades and renovations like a new kitchen or bathroom when deciding on a prospective purchase. And while these upgrades can be expensive, they’re also a long-term investment solar energy system supplier that will yield a high return on the money you put into them.
However, it’s important to note that if you’re on a solar lease, and you decide to sell your home, the solar system does not transfer to the new owners. The leasing company can remove the panels and the new homeowner may not be eligible for any local or state solar incentives, like renewable energy certificates (RECs).
If you’re on a lease, your best bet is to keep records of your system’s installation, warranty information, and ideally, power bills that show before and after proof of energy savings. This way, when you’re ready to sell your home, you can provide potential buyers with this evidence and help them make an informed decision about buying a home with a solar system.
