Are you interested in buying solar panels? In this article, we will cover all the basics of this particular venture. Whether you are looking to save money or are more interested in saving the planet, going solar is a great choice.
If you are a rookie in the field of clean and renewable energy, you came to the right place, so let us help you!
What Are the Benefits of Solar Panels?
Equipping your home with a clean energy source can offer you plenty of benefits. Solar panels represent an ideal solution for homeowners who seek to reduce electricity bills and play a role in stopping climate change.
Tax Incentives
In addition, many state and local authorities in the US are offering tax returns and incentives for homeowners who install solar panels. DSIRE provides a list of incentives for renewable energy systems. You can search through them and filter by state and program to find which applies to your home.
Durability
Getting solar panels isn’t cheap, but the good news is they can last you up to 30 years. As a result, you have plenty of time to get your money back for this investment — especially because it takes approximately 5‒9 years for a solar payback period.
Low Maintenance
Another plus is easy maintenance. The two most common ways to keep your solar panels working properly are:
- Cleaning them by yourself
- An annual inspection by professionals
With all these benefits, solar panels are not only an investment for the present but also the future. On top of that, if you are interested in buying solar panels, you should also know that they’ll increase your home’s value straight away.
What Could Stand in Your Way of Going Green?
Possible obstacles that you may encounter include:
- Location
- Getting a permit
- Initial cost
Location
First, you need to determine if the condition of your roof allows you to get solar panels.
In the northern hemisphere, panels are usually mounted on the south side to collect the greatest amount of sunlight. So, if you have shadows or tree branches covering up that side of the roof, that might be something you need to take care of first.
Another thing to factor in is the general condition of your roof. After all, if solar panels are going to be on it for the next 30 years, it needs to be in good shape. Of course, there are alternative places around your house and yard to set up panels, but make sure to consult your contractor before you decide anything.
Getting a Permit
To set up solar panels on a property, the homeowner must comply with their state or city requirements. It is important to check your zip code and research all local zoning laws beforehand. The Solar Energy Industries Association has gathered information to help homeowners steer clear of obstacles that may be in their way.
Initial Cost
Undoubtedly, solar panels are more expensive than many household appliances, but they will save you money in the long run. Still, initially, you’d need to pay a hefty amount. The cost of buying a solar panel system and having it installed may be high. However, solar panels are an excellent investment that will last you a long time — which is why it’s also essential to choose the right contractor who will set them up for you.
Conclusion
Buying solar panels will provide a decrease in your utility bills, carbon footprint, and usage of electrical power. However, transitioning to solar energy also requires a good amount of planning and consulting with professionals.
All this may seem overwhelming and complicated, but choosing the right company is the key. A suitable contractor will take care of most things that need to be checked and done. In the end, if you are still not sure if switching to solar panels is the right thing to do — contact Atlantic Key Energy for a consultation and to get a free quote.
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