FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Net metering is a policy that allows solar panel owners to receive credits for the excess electricity they produce and feed back into the grid. This means that for every kilowatt hour of electricity produced by the solar system and sent to the grid, the homeowner will receive a credit on their utility bill. These credits can then be used to offset the cost of electricity consumed during times when the solar panels are not producing power, such as at night or on cloudy days. Net metering is an important policy that helps to make solar power more affordable and accessible for homeowners, and it is a key component in the development and growth of the solar energy industry.
The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a federal income tax credit available to homeowners who install solar systems on their property. The ITC allows homeowners to receive a credit equal to a certain percentage of the cost of their solar system, which can be applied to their federal income taxes. The current ITC rate is 30%, which means that homeowners can receive a credit worth 30% of the cost of their solar system. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of going solar, making it more affordable and accessible for homeowners.
The ITC is a key driver of solar adoption in the United States and has helped to make solar power more affordable and accessible for homeowners. It is important to note that the ITC is set to expire in 2022, and it’s uncertain if it would be extended, so it’s recommended to take advantage of the ITC while it’s still available. Additionally, some states and local municipalities may also offer additional incentives for solar, so it’s worth checking with your state and local government to see if there are any additional benefits available to you. Overall, the ITC is a great way for homeowners to save money and support clean energy by going solar.
Solar warranties are agreements between the manufacturer or installer of a solar system and the homeowner, that ensure the proper functioning and performance of the system for a certain period. There are typically three types of solar warranties:
Panel warranty: This covers the solar panels themselves and guarantees that they will continue to produce power for a certain period, typically 25 years. The production guarantee can vary, with some panels guaranteed to produce 85% of their original power, while others guarantee up to 92%.
Inverter warranty: The inverter is the component of the solar system that converts the energy from the sun into usable electricity for the home. The inverter warranty covers this component for a certain period, typically 12 to 25 years, and some companies even offer extended options of 30 years.
Workmanship warranty: This covers the work done by the installer during the installation of the solar system and guarantees that all work done will be free from defects for a certain period, typically 10 years.
It’s important to know that the warranty is a crucial part of the solar system and it’s essential to understand the terms of the warranty, what is covered and who is responsible for any repairs or replacements. Solar warranties are designed to protect your solar investment and ensure that it continues to provide value in the long-term.
Going solar is a smart investment for families because it can save you money on your electricity bills, increase the value of your home, and reduce your carbon footprint.
When you install a solar system on your home, you are essentially producing your own electricity. This means that for every kilowatt-hour of electricity your system produces, you don’t have to purchase that energy from your electric company. This can result in significant savings on your electricity bills over time.
Additionally, solar is a home improvement that can increase the value of your home. Studies have shown that homes with solar systems sell for more than similar homes without solar. This is because solar systems are viewed as an attractive feature, and the savings on electricity bills are also seen as a benefit.
Finally, going solar is also a way to reduce your carbon footprint and do your part in fighting against climate change. Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source that does not produce any greenhouse gas emissions. By investing in solar, you are not only saving money on your electricity bills, but you are also contributing to a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, solar is a good investment for families as it not only saves money on electricity bills, increases the value of the home but also contributes to a sustainable future.