The Benefits of Going Solar!

Solar Lesson #7
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The Benefits of Going Solar!

The Benefits of Going Solar!


You may have a general idea that going solar could benefit you, but do you know exactly how much it can help? Understanding all of the benefits of going solar is the first step to making the change.

Solar energy is better for the environment
One of the main reasons solar energy has become so popular is because it is a renewable resource that does not harm the environment when it's utilized. Traditional forms of energy, such as gas and coal, are not renewable and cause a great deal of harm to the environment.

By installing solar panels on your home, you'll be greatly reducing your carbon footprint on the Earth compared to when you were using non-renewable energy sources.

You'll save money on utilities
After paying for the solar panels, you won't have to worry about paying anything else for the solar energy you generate. You get your energy directly from the sun, and the sun doesn't charge you a utility fee! You can greatly reduce, or even completely eliminate, your electric bill by switching to solar. Over time, your savings will have paid for your solar panels several times over.

Incentives and tax credits
Not only will you save money on your monthly utility bill, but you'll get major monetary incentives and tax credits by going solar. That means you'll save money on taxes each year and even get a portion of your solar panels paid for.

Increase Your Home Value
Buying a home with solar panels translates into lower electricity costs. Solar panels will increase a home's attractiveness on the market, similarly to homes with low property taxes, homes in school districts and homes with good Home Energy Ratings (a measurement of a energy efficiency).

A study conducted by National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) concluded that homes with solar panels sell 20% faster and for 17% more money.

U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that the sales price of the average home increased $17,000 with solar panels.

Solar is a Secure Investment
The utility companies are notorious for their fluctuating and unreliable electricity prices. There is clearly an upward trend.

With solar panels and simple math, we can calculate how much electricity will be generated, and most importantly, at what price, for at least the next 20 years (fixed energy costs).

Guaranteed Performance
Solar panel manufacturers include a 20-to-25-year warranty (also known as a performance guarantee) with their solar panels. The industry standard guarantees 80% performance after 25 years.

The real lifespan of solar panels is much longer – your solar panels will likely generate a good amount of electricity 30-40 years down the line!

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