The latest news in solar and electrical
Should I buy a House With Solar Panels? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself
Are you in the market to buy a home?
If so, you might be wondering whether buying a home with solar panels is a smart idea, and what the decision will mean for your property value, ownership costs, and maintenance commitment down the road.
As solar power installation costs have decreased in recent years and the desirability of solar power has increased, more homes with solar panels have popped up across the country.
In fact, more than one million U.S. homes are currently equipped with solar panels.
So if you’re asking yourself, “Should I buy a house with solar panels?” here’s what you need to know.
How Much do Solar Panels Save on Electricity Bills?
One of the biggest benefits of solar panels is that they save you money. Most people who install residential systems find that their electric bill after solar panels is much lower than it was before solar panels.
Solar panels also provide long-term financial perks, frequently saving households tens-of-thousands of dollars in the two decades after their installation. If you’re wondering, “How much can I save with solar panels?” you’ll be happy to know that the number might be higher than you think.
If you’re interested in learning more about the positive financial impact of solar panels, consider these solar panel savings statistics.
9 Incredible Facts About Solar Panels (That You Probably Didn’t Know)
Are you interested in learning more about solar panels? Do you live in an area where solar panels are common and wish you had the solar panel facts to understand them better? Are you wondering whether you should buy solar panels for your home?
The following facts about solar panels will help you learn more about the benefits of residential solar systems, and how they can improve your life.
Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days? The Answer May Surprise You
Most people know that solar panels in the sun produce reliable energy in direct sunlight.
But what happens when it’s foggy, or overcast out? Do solar panels work in the rain? What happens in the winter, when daily sunlight hours drop? Will your solar panels still power your home?
If you think your solar panels stop working without direct sunlight, it’s time to think again. In fact, most modern versions of PV solar panels actually work more efficiently in cooler, cloudy, or overcast conditions.
After all – solar panels are meant to provide a reliable source of clean energy – rain, shine, or clouds. Because of this, they’re sensitive enough to pick up and transform various types of light, even when the sun isn’t hitting them directly.
Read on to learn more about how it works.
What Is Senate Bill 100? 4 Things You Need to Know
Are you considering purchasing solar panels for your home? If so, you probably have plenty of questions. The most common question we hear is related to the benefits of solar energy, but one we’re hearing more frequently is “What is Senate Bill 100?”
SB 100 focuses on ensuring California is 100 percent renewable energy powered by 2045. This is obviously a huge goal for the state to take on, but once the bill passes, you are going to be affected if you live in California.
With that in mind, here are a few things you need to know about Senate Bill 100 and what it means for you.
Net Metering 2.0 in California: What You Need to Know About the Program
Are you curious about Net Metering 2.0? Do you know what’s changed under the new policies? Are you wondering how the 2.0 program will affect you?
If so, you’re not alone.
According to EnergySage, Californians installed upward of 13,241 megawatts of solar in 2015, nearly five times the amount of the second-place state — Arizona.
Unfortunately, the Net Metering 2.0 structure is far from clear. If you’ve ever wondered how the net metering policy works, or what to make of Net Metering 2.0, here’s a simple breakdown.
Solar Panel Warranties: 4 Things You Need to Know
You’re looking forward to switching the house over to solar, but you wonder about the types of solar panel warranties available for homeowners. Before you make the conversion, it helps to understand the differences between a solar performance, product and service warranty.
Different types of home solar panel systems offer different solar panel warranties, so keep these four important considerations in mind as you finalize your decision about products and services.
Troubleshooting Solar Panels: 4 Common Problems and Solutions
Home solar systems are unique, and so are the challenges that come with owning them. Keep in mind that solar systems are relatively maintenance free and most issues, if not all, can be alleviated if you use an experienced installer. However, it is always wise to familiarize yourself with some of the most common solar panel problems. Use these tips on troubleshooting solar panels for your confidence and peace of mind.
Solar Energy Pros and Cons: Understand These 5 Simple Facts
Energy solutions aren’t “one size fits all.” Homes and businesses are unique, and so are their power needs. In other words, your choice should suit you. Do you know whether the good features of solar energy outweigh the negatives?
No technology is perfect, but home solar panels have some cool advantages. These facts should clear up any misconceptions.
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need to Charge My Electric Car?
Some technologies seem to go hand in hand, and solar charging for electric vehicles is a prime example. Why fill a gas tank when you can install a solar system for your home and use the sun for free?
Even though solar installations and electric vehicles go together, it may be hard to find the perfect match. For instance, how many solar panels will it take to charge a Tesla? What about a Chevy Volt? These tips will shed some light on the issue.
8 Simple Tips for Going Green at Home
Are you curious about going green at home? If you’re a business, there are many ways to go green – and the same applies to homes. Protecting the environment is important, but you don’t need to rethink your whole lifestyle to do it. It’s especially easy if you’re already considering installing home solar panels.
The Federal Solar Tax Credit: What You Need to Know [2024]
Could investing in solar energy pay off sooner than you think?
The short answer is yes.
Many residential home solar power systems are eligible for a federal solar tax credit (also called the Investment Tax Credit, or ITC).
At the time of this writing, you can get up to 30% of your eligible installation costs back by claiming the tax credit when you file with the IRS.
The ITC benefits residential and commercial customers, and there is no cap on its value.
If you’re wondering how the solar tax credit works in 2024, we cover everything you need to know in this post.
Let’s dive in.
Could Ground-mounted Solar Panels Be Right for Your Home?
Are you excited about installing solar panels but unsure whether your roof is the best place for them? Maybe you’d just rather keep yours out of sight. Fortunately, solar mounting systems give you plenty of convenient options. Ground-based installations let you do more with unused space and still enjoy the benefits of a solar home.
Ground-mounted solar panels perform the same work as the rooftop kind, but there are some important differences to consider. Here’s how these home solar panels might improve your property’s value and your system’s return on investment.
What Trade Politics Might Mean for Solar Panel Prices
Purchasing home solar panels is a great option for people who care about environmental stewardship. Of course, pricing is also an important consideration. When you ask yourself “Why should I go solar,” it’s only natural to follow up with “How much should my solar panels cost?”
As we’ve covered before, numerous factors affect solar panel prices. What often goes undiscussed, however, is the role that politics play in what you pay. Here’s a current, real-world example that might shed some light on the issue.
Do Solar Panels Add Value to Your Home?
Are you interested in increasing your home’s resale value? Whether you prefer investing in new countertops, cabinets or major appliances, there are many functional ways to heighten your residence’s equity. Some options, such as installing siding, insulation or home solar panels, offer benefits that provide you with high-functioning, energy-efficient returns.
Just how much do solar panels increase the value of your home? It depends on your specific system. Here’s how to understand your potential gains.