Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery backup or storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
- Lower energy bills: Generating some or all of your own power will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Glendale Homeowners?
Arizona homeowners who decide on solar could qualify for special financing, reimbursements, tax credits and rebates. Here are just a few of the local incentive programs.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of sales tax on eligible equipment
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: azdor.govIncentive Amount:
25%
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Deduction
Incentive Amount:
Total cost, exclusive of taxes, interest and other finance charges
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of increased value
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: srpnet.comIncentive Amount:
$0.30/kWh for annual estimated energy savings (based on SRCC rating)
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Glendale
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar array. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.
Licensing and Training
In Arizona, the Registrar of Contractors grants separate licenses for solar PV and thermal contractors. To install solar PV systems, a contractor must be a licensed electrician, and for solar thermal systems, they must be a licensed plumber. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar sector's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Glendale
The style of solar panels you select dictates how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.
Additional system add-ons, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers provide these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.
If you're a resident of Glendale and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $15,350 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,182 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $922 |
| Thin-Film | $539 |
| Solar Battery | $756 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,836 |
Financing Solar Energy in Glendale
There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much like an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each company you're considering about the financing options it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Glendale.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.7 years |
| 2 kW | 3.3 years |
| 5 kW | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | 16.5 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Glendale
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy widely available in Glendale?
Should I expect a property value increase after switching to solar energy?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a wooded, dark, or rainy area?
How long does the solar panel installation process take?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from local banks, the government, specialty lenders and installer. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are larger, and you'll be responsible for upkeep, you'll also have full ownership rights and can apply for many more incentives.
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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