You Should Go Solar Based on Economic and Environmental Reasons

You should go solar. Why? Because there are so many good reasons why installing a solar energy system in your home or business makes good economic and environmental sense.

First, you should go solar because solar power is a proven and reliable technology that utilizes the energy of the sun, a resource that can be collected and stored everywhere on earth. Solar systems store the sun’s abundant energy to make it available for your use 24/7. Solar power can generate electricity in remote areas of the globe.

Second, you should go solar because no one owns the power generated by sunlight which means that you as a consumer have energy security, energy that is not subject to the demands of the market or fluctuating prices. The fuel for solar panels is free and accessible to all – it cannot be bought or monopolized. The sun will not increase its cost to you at some point in the future.

Third, you should go solar because solar energy systems are cost effective. Once you have paid for the initial cost of installation, solar power saves you money on utility costs and increases the resale value of your home or business. Plus, the maintenance costs of solar panels, which are simple devices, are minimal or non-existent. According to a recent study, customers saved an average of $44 to $187 per month the first year they own their solar panels and up to $20,000 in 20 years.

Fourth, you should go solar because the costs of solar panel installation continue to fall, making this resource even more affordable. As a result, solar panel installations increased 70 percent in 2015 over the previous year, while costs have dropped 73% since 2006. These trends serve as a testament to how cost effective this alternative energy has become.

The average solar array costs between $10,000 and $35,000. There are, however, both state and federal tax incentives to offset installation costs. To expand solar installations and to provide incentives for states and individuals to move forward with alternative sources of energy, the US implemented the Renewable Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) in 2006. Those installing solar could apply for a federal tax credit of up to 26% of the cost of design and installation. The ITC was set to expire in 2016 (a 10 year program) but has been extended until 2021.

Finally, you should go solar because solar energy is clean energy, and it’s renewable. Unlike energy generated from fossil fuels, solar electricity doesn’t release harmful carbon dioxide or and other harmful pollutants. You are helping to combat global warming by cutting down on the carbon emissions. According to GreenEnergyChoice.com, more than 2.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide are produced just by power plants each year. Sulphur oxides produced when burning fossil fuels create sulphuric acid when these oxides combine with water vapor. As this acid accumulates in lakes and streams, it makes the habitats uninhabitable for plants and animals. Solar energy does not create negative chemical reactions when generated or used.

These are some of the sound reasons to invest in solar energy for your home or business. Learn more by contacting one of our solar experts at Venture Home Solar. Call us today at 800-203-4158 to find out how you can help the planet and save money at the same time by investing in solar energy! We know the “ins and outs” of our state policies here in New York, including the tax incentives and rebates that can make a solar installation on your home or business even more cost effective. We’re the local experts who stand ready to help you evaluate the feasibility of going solar with your home or business. Call Venture Home Solar today (800-203-4158) to get started!