Planning a home renovation? If you are, you’ve likely already been encouraged to rethink where you get your electricity from. Solar is becoming an extremely popular option for residential electricity – but the high cost of solar panels can make people think twice about going down this route.
If you’re wondering what the right choice is, don’t worry. Here are 6 reasons why you should definitely incorporate solar energy during your home renovation!
- It Saves Money
- Going solar helps save money in several ways. For one, you’ll see lower to no electricity bills, depending on how much energy you get from your solar panels, how much sunlight your area gets, among other factors, but lower bills are for certain. Over time, these savings will essentially pay for your solar panels, especially if you buy rather than rent them.
- However, there are other ways in which you can save money. For example, the U.S. government offers a federal tax credit to homeowners who have a solar energy system. This can be used to offset a percentage of the cost of the system, making it a more affordable option for homeowners.
- It Helps the Environment
- After savings, the environment is the major reason people look at solar energy systems for their homes. Solar energy can help save the environment by cutting down on harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, solar alternatives use up less water than conventional electricity and provide a reliable, renewable energy source for your home.
- Helps Boost Your Home’s Value
- If you ever plan on selling your property in the future, solar systems help boost your home’s value. There is evidence that buyers will pay more for a home that is already connected to a solar energy system, so your investment will pay off in the long run. And, as mentioned above, you can continue to take advantage of the financial benefits of solar energy until you’re ready to move on from your house.
- Solar Works – Everywhere
- If you’re in the United States, you don’t have to worry about not getting enough sunlight for your solar energy system to function. A single hour of noontime summer sun is generally enough to meet your needs. Even if you live in an area with lower sunlight like Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, you’ll still see some cost savings and your electricity use being offset.
- You Might Make Money
- Depending on where you live and how much energy your solar energy system produces, you may actually be able to sell excess energy produced by your system to the energy grid. In the U.S., you’ll need to have a “net metering” plan to do so, and this can be a good way to make a bit of money on the side.
- That said, keep in mind that not all homes and solar energy systems are eligible for this benefit. To learn more, it’s essential to speak to your solar energy system installation provider.
- You Avoid Rising Costs
- If you’ve been keeping an eye on your electricity bills over the years, you’ve probably noticed they’re going up even when the amount of electricity you use doesn’t change noticeably. This isn’t just in your head – the cost of utilities is increasing.
- By investing in solar, you can head off this issue. Your draw from the main power grid will be reduced or non-existent, ensuring you’re protected against the financial impact of rising energy costs.
- This is also a reason to invest in solar ASAP. Like other items, inflation will affect the cost of your solar energy system as well, so buying now allows you to lock in the price you’ll spend and ensures you don’t have to worry about rising costs of solar systems in the future.
BONUS: You’re Helping the Local Economy
The solar industry employs hundreds of thousands of people, and most of them work for local solar companies. By investing in a solar energy system, you’re investing in and boosting your own local economy.
Solar is a natural option for homeowners worried about inflation and rising costs when renovating their property. But, as you can see from this guide, the benefits of solar go far beyond simply financial benefits – it’s a great way to give back to the local economy and help safeguard the environment for your children and future generations.
While the initial investment cost can seem intimidating, it’s essential to keep in mind that this is a long-term investment. While it may require you to tighten your belt a little in the short term, it’ll more than pay off in a couple of years.