Investing in solar energy is a long-term commitment that can save you thousands of dollars on your electric bill for the next 20 years or more. According to a report from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, solar adoption is not limited to high-income households, and the rooftop solar market is becoming increasingly equitable. The orientation of your home, the amount of shade it receives, and the type of roof all affect the production of your solar system. Santee Cooper can help you determine which solar panel option and how much solar energy is right for your home.
The solar tax credit is currently worth 30%, allowing you to save more than a quarter of the cost of your solar system. If you live in an area with medium to high utility rates, you can be sure that a solar panel will save you a lot of money over time. Photovoltaic solar panels are especially beneficial in areas with time-varying rates, as the solar energy produced can offset more expensive electricity. Solar installation companies often have less work in the off-season, so their panels can be installed quickly and start producing energy soon after.
Tools are available to help you estimate how much energy your solar system will generate, but it's best to work with a solar installer for a personalized estimate. The cost of solar panels depends on your electricity use, home size, whether you buy or lease your system, and the amount of energy you can generate based on the direction of your roof and the amount of sunlight it receives. Solar panels are designed to work in all climates, but some roofs may not be suitable due to age or tree cover. Consumer Reports estimates that after accounting for tax credits, the cost of a solar panel system in an average-sized home in the U.
S. is around $18,840. Before researching alternative energy sources like solar energy, it's important to understand your average energy consumption. Solar panels generate their own energy and can significantly reduce or even eliminate your monthly electricity bill.
Thin-film photovoltaic cells are easier and less expensive to produce but are also the least efficient type of solar panel.
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