In a time when sustainability and energy efficiency are paramount, rooftop solar systems offer an attractive solution for homeowners and small business owners alike. This guide aims to demystify the process of going solar, covering everything from financial options to installation queries. In today's blog, you'll gain a clearer understanding of how to harness the sun's power for your family's energy needs.
Buy or Lease: Making the Right Financial Choice
One of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to buy or lease your rooftop solar system. This decision, while significant, empowers you to take control of your energy future.
Purchasing a system outright involves a significant upfront cost but can offer substantial long-term savings and increase property value. On the other hand, leasing or opting for a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) can reduce upfront costs, though the long-term savings may be lower. Consider your financial situation, long-term plans, and energy needs when making this decision.
Incentives and Credits: Making Solar More Affordable
Numerous incentives and credits can make installing solar panels more affordable, from federal tax credits to state and local rebates. The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) permits homeowners to deduct a significant portion of the installation expense for solar panels on their taxes. Additionally, Missouri offers various incentives that include:
- Net Metering
- Property Tax Exemption
- Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program
- Liberty Utilities Offers Solar Rebates of $0.25 per watt
Researching and understanding these can significantly reduce your initial upfront cost and improve your investment return.
Understanding the Amount of Solar Energy You Need to Generate
Before installing a rooftop solar system, it's crucial to understand how much solar energy you need to generate. This understanding provides you with the peace of mind that you're making an informed decision.
Start by evaluating your family's monthly energy consumption on your utility bill. From there, consider factors like the roof size, the number of sunny days, and the efficiency of the solar panels. Solar installers can often perform an energy audit to give you a more accurate estimate.
Top Questions for Solar Installers
Engaging with a reputable solar installer, like the Ipock Electric and Solar team, is critical to a successful installation. Before signing any contracts, it's important to be proactive and ask the right questions. This engagement ensures you're fully informed and ready to make an informed decision as you transition to solar energy.
- Inquire about whether they are licensed, insured, and bonded as a business and their certifications.
- Request to talk with other homeowners or businesses for which they've installed solar panels in the recent past.
- Ask about warranties and what to expect if you sell your home in the future.
- Get a commitment on their installation timeline but never accept a verbal agreement. Always get it in writing.
- Maintenance requirements for the system.
Schedule an In-Home Consultation
Switching to rooftop solar is a significant investment, but with the correct information and planning, it can be a highly rewarding one. By considering your financial options, taking advantage of incentives, understanding your energy needs, and asking the right questions, you'll be well on your way to harnessing the sun's power.
Embrace your journey to sustainability and enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy from the experts at Ipock Electric and Solar—call (417) 437-2905 to schedule a free in-home consultation.