The year 2022 is possibly the best time to switch to solar panels. The cost of installation has dropped significantly, and the government is offering grants to all solar-powered homes. Currently, if you get your panels installed by the end of 2022, you will get a 26% tax credit on your federal income taxes.
Not only that, but you’ll also get all the benefits of using solar energy, the best one being long-term savings on electricity bills. Solar power locks energy prices at a constant rate, so your bills won’t increase as the cost of electricity goes up. In the long-term, this could end up saving you a staggering $37,250 over the course of 25 years.
With advantages like that, it’s no wonder the waiting list for solar panels has grown so long. And since there are so many people looking to get their own system, you’re probably wondering, how soon can you get your solar panels installed? There is no definite answer. But if you nail your timing just right, you’ll be able to get some panels on your roof in just a few short weeks!
Getting Solar Panels: A Complete Breakdown
When it comes to going solar, you’ll have to do a bit more than just decide it’s time to make the switch. There are a lot of factors that will define your purchase, which you have to take into consideration while researching.
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Initial investment
The first and most important thing that needs addressing when it comes to solar panels is the initial investment. The average cost of a solar panel system ranges from $3,500 to a hefty $35,000. Of course, the exact sum will vary depending on the size of the system and the model.
Therefore, before making the switch, you first have to outline your budget. Calculate the amount of power your home needs and the cost of installing the panels. This will give you a good idea of what system model you’ll need and how much you’ll have to invest.
2. Your Location
Another aspect you’ll have to consider is where you’re located. In some states like, for example, California, you’ll have to fork over a solid $15,240 for your system. Other states, such as Kansas, offer panels for much less, starting at $13,101.
What’s more, your location will also affect how your panels run. While solar panels do absolutely work even when it’s overcast, they do run at a reduced capacity. So you may end up saving a bit less than you expected if you live in areas with bad weather.
The Compatibility of Your Home With Solar Panels
Going solar doesn’t just mean you have to pay for the system itself. It also means making sure your home is suitable for a PV system. More often than not, this relates to investing some money in roof repairs to make sure your home can handle the panels. Furthermore, you’ll also have to invest in hooks and bolts to keep the panels in place. In total, you’ll be looking at anywhere between $1,500 to $7,000 for major roof work.
How Soon Can My Solar Panels be Installed?
So, you’ve determined that both your home and budget can handle a nice set of panels. The last thing you have to consider is the wait time.
As established, the demand for solar panels has increased. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for individuals interested in going solar to spend a month or even longer waiting on their set. However, the exact wait time will depend on several factors:
- Their size: the bigger the panels, the longer it takes to install them. So if you’ve ordered a large set for your home, you can spend a month or more waiting for your provider to set them up.
- The company you choose for the job: Not all solar providers have the same policies — while some can get the job done in a few weeks, others may drag it out for longer.
- Local permits and inspection process: Before getting a set of panels, you’ll have to file a request for a solar permit with your local government. Afterward, you’ll have to wait approximately a week or a month for them to process it. And even if they give you the go-ahead, you’ll still have to wait for a government official to inspect your property to confirm it meets the requirements.
- Utility company interconnection: Even after you’ve got your panels secured to your roof, you’ll still have to wait for the utility company to connect them to your grid. Overall, they will normally take two to three weeks to process your request. Of course, this will depend on your power provider and exact location.
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