There are now 78 gigawatts of solar power installed in the United States. This is enough to power over 14.5 million homes.
Solar power is fast becoming the go-to option for millions of individuals and businesses that not only want to help conserve the environment but also cut their energy costs. Switching to solar power is a big decision, though.
As a result, there are several important considerations you ought to make before installing solar panels in your home. In this article, we’re shining some light on some of these considerations.
Keep reading!
Are You Owning or Renting?
During solar installation, a lot of work will be done on your property’s roof.
If your own the property, obviously no one will prevent you from making installations that might affect the structural integrity and appearance of the roof. However, if you’re currently renting, you’ll typically need to get a go-ahead from the property’s developer.
In most instances, property owners will prohibit their tenants from making solar installations. This is because no tenant is going to make a $20,000-dollar solar investment and leave it behind when they move. You’ll want to uninstall the system and move with it to your new abode.
Uninstallation can damage the roof, so it’s easy to see why installing solar in a rented property will have to guide your decision-making.
Your Location
When we talk about location with regard to solar installation, most people start wondering whether the amount of sunlight their region receives is a deciding factor.
Well, unless you live in a region that receives little to no sunlight throughout the year, you have no reason to worry. However, factors such as your local weather (average temperatures) and shading will affect the performance of your system.
This doesn’t mean you can’t install solar panels, though. If your area records low temperatures most of the year, for instance, it means you’ll need to install more solar panels. A solar company like www.solarisesolar.com/ can advise you on the size and type of solar panels that will work best in your area.
Shading is a fairly easy problem to solve. If the trees are in your compound, you can trim or cut them down.
Cost of Solar Installation
Although the cost of solar installation varies depending on the size of your home and energy consumption, it isn’t a cheap project. On average, you’ll spend anywhere between $15,000 and $25,000 to power up your home with solar.
Do you have this kind of money ready for this project?
If yes, you’re good to proceed. If not, you might need to hold off on the project or explore financing options.
Keep in mind that now is the best time to install solar if you haven’t already. The Solar Investment Tax Credit operates on a sliding scale. In 2020, you can claim up to 26 percent of your solar installation costs from your federal taxes. In 2021, it will drop to 22 percent, and just 10 percent in 2022.
Installing Solar Panels: Make the Right Decision
On the surface, installing solar panels automatically looks like the right thing to do. However, there are serious considerations you need to make if you want to make the most of your investment. With this guide, you’re now in a better position to make the right decision.
Keep reading our blog for more helpful advice and informative insights.