Solar power has become a popular choice for homeowners hoping to reduce their carbon footprint—and their energy bill. But is going solar really worth it? Absolutely! When comparing energy sources, solar has a number of advantages over all other options.
Here are 11 benefits of solar energy for homeowners.
1. Lower Energy Costs
One of the most obvious benefits of solar energy is lower energy costs. By generating your own electricity with solar panels, you can drastically reduce your monthly utility bills. In many cases, homeowners who switch to solar power are able to erase their energy expenses altogether. And in states with net metering, such as Florida, you can even earn additional credits by “selling” your excess energy back to the local grid.
2. Affordability
Installing solar panels on your home does require an initial investment. However, going solar has never been more affordable. As solar energy has become more common and manufacturing technology has improved, the cost of solar panels has plummeted. Solar tax credits also help offset solar costs, making it easier than ever for homeowners to enjoy the benefits of solar energy.
Plus, most solar energy providers offer their own incentives. For example, at Current Home, we offer new customers a full year of free energy with $0 down. Learn more about how Current Home can help you save.
3. Environmental Benefits
Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source. While traditional fossil fuels pollute the air and water, solar panels produce no pollution at all. Most solar panel components can also be reclaimed, reused, and recycled. By choosing solar power, you can reduce carbon emissions and make a positive impact on the environment.
4. Increased Property Value
Solar panels can increase the resale value of your home significantly. Multiple studies have shown that homes equipped with solar panels typically sell faster and at higher prices than non-solar homes. And when you consider the financial benefits of solar energy, that should come as no surprise. Many homebuyers recognize that investing more in a solar home can mean major savings in the long run.
5. Tax Credits and Incentives
Homeowners can claim a variety of solar tax incentives. The most valuable of these is the federal solar tax credit. However, most state and local governments also recognize the importance of renewable energy and offer their own incentives. For example, in Florida, solar panels are exempt from sales tax and property tax. California also exempts solar panels from property taxes. Other local incentives include rebates, grants, and low-interest financing.
6. Energy Independence
In extreme cases, some homeowners use solar power to disconnect from the grid entirely. But even without going that far, solar power will still give you meaningful energy independence. When you install solar panels, you are essentially giving yourself your own personal power plant. You can then produce your own energy without relying on outside utility companies. This will also help shield you from the price fluctuations and supply disruptions that impact the traditional grid.
7. Reliability
Another benefit of solar energy is that it is often more reliable than traditional energy sources. During power outages and rolling blackouts, solar panels can keep your home fully functional. Solar panels can even generate power during natural disasters—such as Florida hurricanes. With solar power, you can rest easy knowing that no matter what happens, your lights will stay on.
8. Long-Term Returns
Solar panels are generally built to last at least 25 years. Many last as long as 35 or 40 years. And since most solar systems pay for themselves within 6 to 12 years, the remaining time will be nothing but savings. That’s plenty of time to enjoy a major return on your initial investment.
9. Low Maintenance
Solar panels are easy to maintain. With no moving parts to wear out and replace, the only maintenance most homeowners have to worry about is cleaning the panels once or twice a year. Other than that, your solar system will be a set-it-and-forget-it utility.
10. Job Creation
The growth of solar power has created thousands of new jobs in sunny states like Florida and California. Legions of skilled workers have found their calling in designing and installing solar panels. This has fueled local economies and helped communities gain greater independence. The more homeowners embrace the benefits of solar energy, the more the renewable energy sector will thrive.
11. Abundant Energy
Solar energy is the very definition of an abundant resource. As long as the sun keeps shining, we can harness its energy to power the world. The potential for that power is immense, too. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a single hour of noontime summer sun could generate enough electricity to power the entire United States for a year. Needless to say, there’s no need to worry about ever “running out” of solar energy.
Embrace the Benefits of Solar Energy Today
Switching to solar power offers a wide variety of benefits, from lower energy costs to higher home value. And of course, by prioritizing renewable energy, we can do our part to leave a better world for future generations.
Are you ready to take advantage of the benefits of solar energy? Current Home is here to help. For more than 20 years, Current Home has provided custom solar solutions for homeowners and commercial properties. With locations in Florida, Texas, and California, we are your one-stop shop for all things solar.
Just contact us, and we’ll assist you in choosing the perfect solar system for your home. Then, we’ll help you determine which financing option is best for your budget. When you sign up with Current Home, you can even get a full year of free energy with $0 down.
