As the world’s attention turns to the possible devastating effects of climate change, more and more people are looking for ways to make a difference. While small changes like turning down the thermostat or cycling to work can help reduce your carbon footprint, there are other actions that you can take that have a much greater impact—like installing solar panels in your San Diego home.
Solar panels are an eco-friendly way to save money and decrease your carbon footprint at the same time. But, there’s no way the average person can afford to install solar panels, right?
Actually, the cost of solar panels has significantly decreased in recent years. In fact, according to the Solar Energies Industry Association the price of a residential solar panel system has dropped by 60% over the past 10 years – making them accessible for almost anyone.
If you’re thinking about installing solar panels on your property, here are 6 ways solar panels can benefit you – and info on how to get started today!
What are Solar Panels?
A solar panel is a device that uses the sun’s solar energy to generate electricity. They’re typically installed on the roof of your home, but they can also be used in your driveway or an open field.
Solar panels generate clean electricity by converting sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity then flows into the electrical grid that powers your home.
Solar panels are a renewable energy source, meaning they don’t run out or become depleted like fossil fuels do, plus they’re eco-friendly since they generate power without releasing any greenhouse gases or byproducts.
When you buy energy from your typical power company, you’re buying from power plants that burn fossil fuels. By installing solar panels you’re saving the environment from toxic pollution that can harm people and wildlife. Best of all, you’re saving money at the same time!
Now that you understand what a solar panel is, let’s discuss the top 6 ways they can benefit you.
1. Solar Panels are a Solid Investment
While the installation of solar panels requires a moderate investment up front, they have a very high Return On Investment (ROI), meaning that you will earn that money back quickly through energy savings and tax incentives.
Although many variables affect the ROI, the average return on investment for solar energy is between 10-15 years. Considering that most solar panels have a lifespan of at least 25 years or more, this makes solar panels a highly profitable investment.
However, it doesn’t take years to see the savings on your monthly energy bills.
2. You’ll Save Money On Your Electricity Bill
Saving money is on everyone’s mind right now and installing solar panels is a great way to cut your energy costs. Your solar panels will generate a certain amount of wattage depending on how many panels you have installed.
The energy that they generate can be used to power appliances, lights, and other devices, which means you’ll be using clean energy that you generated yourself, and you’ll be getting it for free!
Depending on how many panels you install and much energy you use, you may end up saving a significant amount of money on your monthly electric bill.
3. Solar Panels Can Help Protect The Environment
As we mentioned above, solar panels are an eco-friendly way to power your home, but they also help to protect the environment in other ways. Specifically, by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and slowing down the effects of climate change.
When you buy electricity from the grid, it comes from power plants that burn fossil fuels. This releases high levels of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to a number of environmental issues like rising sea levels, droughts, and increased temperatures.
Solar energy, on the other hand, is carbon neutral. This means that it doesn’t release any greenhouse gases into the air – helping to protect the environment.
4. Solar Panels Can Increase Your Property Value
There are many reasons why installing solar panels on your home can increase its value. But one of the biggest is environmental.
As we’ve discussed, solar energy helps protect the environment, and with the emerging global climate crisis at the forefront of everyone’s minds, energy-efficient homes are in high demand.
Environmentally-conscious buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with solar panels. In fact, a study by the National Association of REALTORS showed that homes with solar panels sold for $17,000 more than their non-solar counterparts.
5. You Can Earn Rebates and Incentives by Installing Solar Panels
Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for rebates and incentives by installing solar panels. These incentives come from either your state or federal government and can help to reduce the cost of your solar panels. This makes them more accessible for everyone.
Though it varies by area, you could be eligible for state and federal tax credits, reimbursements, grants, or low-interest loans to help offset the cost of your solar panels. Be sure to look into this potential savings if you choose to install solar panels on your property.
6. Solar Panels Are a Reliable Energy Source
We’ve learned that solar panels will help protect the environment and save you money – but are they a reliable source of energy? Absolutely! Solar energy is a great option for anyone who wants to completely disconnect from their utility company. They’re also great for those who just needs a reliable back up plan.
This is particularly true if you live in an area where the utility company experiences frequent outages. If there’s a power outage in your area and your solar panels are connected to your home, you’ll still have power.
What about at night or on a rainy day? No worries, your solar panels will still provide the energy you need to power your home.
Other Benefits of Installing Solar Panels
As you can see, solar panels have a lot to offer. They help protect the environment, they reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, they save you money on your electricity bill, and they can increase your property value. But that’s not all!
Solar panels can also reduce noise pollution, reduce the risk of wildfires, and reduce the need for new power lines in your area. So, whether you’re concerned about the environment, your electricity bill, or increasing the value of your property – solar panels are a great choice for you.
Now is The Best Time to Install Solar Panels in San Diego
Solar panels are a great investment no matter when you install them – but with the decreased costs and ongoing government incentives available in many areas, now might be the best time ever to install new solar panels on your property.
You’ll not only be helping the environment, but you’ll be saving money and reducing your carbon footprint at the same time.
How Do You Get Started Installing Solar Panels?
If you’re thinking about installing solar panels on your home, there are a few things that you’ll need to do:
- Figure out how much electricity you use each month- This will help you determine how many solar panels you’ll need to generate enough electricity for your home. Once you know how many panels you’ll need, you can get a solar panel cost estimate from an installer.
- Consult with your installer to evaluate if your home is suitable for solar panels. If you have an open roof, ample space, and good sunlight in your area, solar panels will probably work great for your home.
- Decide where you want to install your panels- You can choose to install them on your roof, your backyard, or a field on your property. You’ll just want to make sure that they’re in an area that gets plenty of sunlight.
Overwhelmed? There’s no need to figure this out all on your own. Contact the experts at Peak Builders & Roofers of San Diego. We can answer all of your questions about harnessing the power of solar energy in the San Diego area. Call for an estimate today!