Solar energy is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills. With costs declining in recent years, installing and maintaining solar panels can be a great investment for those who receive extensive sun exposure throughout the year. But is solar power worth it?The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the size of your solar system, your home's energy consumption, and the cost of electricity in your area. Generally speaking, installing a photovoltaic solar panel system on the roof will offer a greater lifetime value than staying connected to a conventional utility provider.
Studies have also shown that homes with solar energy systems actually sell for more than homes without them. If you're considering switching to solar power, there are several things to consider. First, you'll need to calculate your payback period - the amount of time it takes to recover your initial investment. Solar panels can help you save enough money on energy bills over time to offset upfront costs. You should also look into options such as community solar energy that don't require you to install panels on your roof. You may also want to take advantage of incentives such as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which can save you more than a quarter of the price of your solar system.
Additionally, you should be aware that DIY solar installations can be practical for small-scale applications, but for the most part, the work is best left to the professionals. Finally, you should be aware that utility monopolies have lobbied state legislators to make residential solar energy unaffordable in many states, ending net metering in most areas. However, data from the EnergySage Marketplace shows that when you receive multiple solar quotes through EnergySage, you will save 15 to 25 percent on the cost of solar energy compared to solar energy outside of EnergySage. In conclusion, switching to solar power can be a great investment for homeowners who receive extensive sun exposure throughout the year and are looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills. With incentives such as the ITC and savings from EnergySage, it's possible to offset upfront costs and make solar power worth it in the long run.
