With increasing energy costs and growing environmental concerns, more Americans are turning to solar energy for their power needs. Solar panels harness the sun’s energy to generate electricity, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional energy sources.
Join First American Solar as we highlight the ten best benefits of switching to solar. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (818) 471-4731 if you have any further questions.
1. Significant Savings on Energy Bills
One of the biggest draws to solar energy is the potential for long-term savings. Solar panels reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills by generating free power from the sun. In fact, a June 2024 Forbes study found that if your system is strong enough to meet all your energy needs, you can save up to $1,500 annually on energy costs.
2. Tax Incentives and Rebates
You might’ve already heard about the federal solar Investment Tax Credit available to homeowners and business owners who go solar. This isn’t just a small perk—this tax credit is worth 30% of your total project costs. This credit goes towards your taxes, meaning you’ll pay a lot less come tax season than initially expected.
3. Environmentally Friendly Power
Solar energy is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces your carbon footprint. By switching to solar, you’re contributing to a healthier environment and helping combat climate change.
Some of the key environmental benefits include:
- Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
- Less reliance on fossil fuels
- Decreased air pollution
- Conservation of natural resources
- Lower water consumption
- …and more
4. Residential Solar Panels Are Even Greener
As great as solar farms might be, installing solar panels on your own property yields even greater environmental benefits. A December 2023 Western University study shows just how much greener residential solar panels are. Home-based solar systems generate 18 to 59 percent fewer carbon emissions than solar farms.
5. Energy Storage Potential
Solar panels can easily be combined with a battery, freeing you from worrying about power interruptions that plague the rest of the community. This combination allows you to store excess energy for use when you need it most, including at night or during power outages.
6. Versatility and Scalability
Solar panels can be installed in a wide variety of locations, including rooftops, carports, and open land. Should your needs change in the future, this versatility makes it easy to scale up your solar system to accommodate increased energy requirements.
7. Noise-Free Energy Production
If you’re worried about the noise a generator or another power source could make, solar is an excellent option. Solar panels generate electricity silently, saving you from the distractions of noisy units.
8. Increased Home Value
Installing solar panels can increase the value of your property. Many homebuyers see solar panels as a modern, energy-efficient upgrade. Homes equipped with solar energy systems often sell faster and at a premium compared to homes without them. Expect to see about a 4% increase in home value!
9. Energy Independence
Relying on solar energy reduces your dependence on the traditional power grid. This means protection from rising utility rates and the potential for power outages. You can also better predict your energy costs, making it easier to budget for the future.
10. Low Maintenance
Solar panel systems require minimal maintenance. Aside from occasional cleaning and routine inspections, there are no moving parts to worry about, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure. Be sure to ask your solar contractors about workmanship or manufacturer’s warranties, as well.
Learn More About Solar Energy Systems Today
As you can see, there’s no shortage of benefits to going solar. You’ll save on utility costs thanks to decreased energy consumption and the promise of long-term returns on investment. If you have further questions or want to switch to solar, feel free to contact First American Solar at (818) 471-4731.