Many wonder if solar is the right choice for them. Listed below are a few great benefits of going solar.

Monthly Savings

With a solar electric system you will use considerably less electricity from your utility company, and be able to sell your excess solar electricity right back to them.

Reliable Power

Solar modules produce power for decades and many brands are backed with a 25-year warranty for power output. They’re also tough - many brands are designed and tested to withstand average hailstone strikes of 1" in diameter at 50 mph.

Hedge Against Utility Rate Inflation

Solar electricity allows you to offset energy prices and inevitable rate hikes by producing your own, free electricity for up to 30 years or more. Many utilities have removed their cap on rate hikes, or are getting ready to do so. As a result, rates have skyrocketed suddenly in some states to 50 – 70% (Delaware and Maryland). Eastern Pennsylvania is next to lose its rate cap starting 2011 with an anticipated hike of 40% or higher.

Environmental Benefits

Solar electricity comes from a clean and renewable source – the sun. No polluting by-products are produced during electricity generation. On the other hand, coal, which is the biggest electricity producer in the U.S., releases several pollutants into the atmosphere contributing to global warming, acid rain and human disease (related to heavy metals such as mercury and other compounds like nitrogen oxides).

Increased Property Value

Solar is a great way to increase your property value. According to the National Appraisal Journal Report (1998/1999) for every $1 of annual utility savings, the value of your home increases by $20.

Federal & State Incentives

Between federal tax breaks and state rebate programs you can reduce 30% - 40% or your system cost depending where you live.

Energy Independence

Solar electricity is used where it is made, so there are no transportation fees, delivery costs or foreign influences on cost. The supply chain is simply the sun to your roof.

Alarmingly, the U.S. power grid is practically overloaded with no significant expansion in sight (see related article). Ideally, if more people utilize solar electricity systems, the public power grid would be more reliable since there would be less strain on it. Everyone would benefit by reduced costs and increased reliability.

 

If you are interested in going solar here are a few questions that will help you in your decision making process…..

Do you have a south-facing roof or piece of land that can accommodate your solar electric system?

A south-facing roof is best but other orientations will work as well with minimal production loss (south-west, south-east). North facing roofs are not recommended due to minimal sun exposure.

Is there space available on your roof or ground to mount your system?

One kilowatt of solar modules (panels) will cover approximately 75 square feet of area. Most residences cannot meet 100% of their electric demand via their roof, but 50 - 75% is usually achievable.

Do you have any shading issues for your selected space?

Homes with nearby tall trees or buildings may not be a good candidate for solar if shading is too severe. Be aware of the cost of trimming/cutting down selected trees for shade removal. We can easily calculate how much shading you have and figure out which trees to cutback with a free quick visit.

Will you need to repair/replace your roof in the next 5 years?

You may want to consider re-roofing now before adding a solar system.

For further questions please visit or FAQ and Finance sections. If you’re interested in getting a free site visit and quote please click on our Get a Quote section.