Is Solar for Me?
Solar power is fast becoming a popular energy choice for many home and business owners. However, it is essential to determine in advance whether solar energy is the right choice for you. Here at NRG Consultants, our team of skilled consultants and designers want to offer you some critical insight to help you decide whether solar panels meet your individual energy needs.
The Benefits of Solar Power
The benefits of solar power are many and include the following:
- Very affordable– Upfront costs for a solar electric system have come down nearly 25% in recent years, with federal tax credits for the systems up by more than 25%.
- Independent resource – Solar energy allows you to generate your electricity and not depend on electricity providers, and the consistent rate increases.
- Clean source of energy – Solar energy helps enhance air quality and reduces global warming by minimizing the number of greenhouse gases and pollutants released into the air.
Is Solar Right for Me?
Is solar right for me? The solar panels installed are not only highly efficient but are very reliable and last for more than 25 years with attractive warranties that typically last for the lifespan of the panels. When you choose solar energy, you are sure to get a whole lot more for your money.
Further, solar panels generate natural clean energy by harnessing the power of the sun. Depending upon the amount of electricity your solar panels generate and the amount of energy you need for your home or business, you may very well qualify for a credit for any excess energy generated. Solar energy is renewable and helps to conserve fossil fuels for the many generations ahead.
Yet another positive element of your solar electric system is the simple fact that it does not take a very long period of time to get your system installed. It typically takes between 4-8 weeks from the time you sign your contract to the final inspection phase of your installation.
When determining whether solar is right for you, give focus to the amount of space you have available for your installation as well as your budget. The amount of energy your solar electric system will produce will be dependent upon these factors. With the proper space and financing, you can surely meet the energy needs of your home or business.
Finally, in order for your new solar electric system to be both efficient and effective for you, it is important that you have enough sunlight available. Solar electric systems, in order to work properly, need access to the UV rays of the sun that are unobstructed for nearly all of the day. If there is too much shading it will reduce the amount of energy output significantly. Typically, if your roof faces to the south, the west, or the southwest, then a solar electric system may be the ideal choice and suit your home or business perfectly.
Solar May Not Be the Right Choice for You
There are a few scenarios within which a solar electric system would not be a suitable option for you. If, for instance, you rent the home you live in or happen to live in a mobile home, solar would not be an option for you. If your roof has too much shade and you are unable to minimize that shade, then solar energy would not be an effective source of energy for your home or business.