Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Lowered energy bills: You can skip the premium cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home powered through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Enfield Homeowners?
Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for switching to solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Varies (local option)
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of value added by renewable system
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: gosolarct.comIncentive Amount:
Customer-owned (EPBB):
Up to 10 kW PTC: $0.358/W
10 to 20 kW PTC: $0.207/W
Incentive is reduced accordingly for Design Factors below 75%. Minimum design factor is 60%.
Third-Party-Owned (PBI):
Up to 20 kW PTC: $0.03/kWh for 6 years
Minimum Design Factor 60%
Incentive Type: Green Building Incentive
Website: ctgreenbank.comIncentive Type: Loan Program
Website: ctgreenbank.comIncentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: capitalforchange.orgIncentive Amount:
Single family homes (1-4 family units): $25,000
Landlord Loan: $40,000
Incentive Type: Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website: uinet.comIncentive Amount:
$98.18 per ZREC (for Year 6 round of solicitation)
Incentive Type: Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website: eversource.comIncentive Amount:
$100.74 per REC (for Year 7 round of solicitation)Tariff for Small ZREC determined through PURA
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: energizect.comIncentive Amount:
Ductless Heat Pump: $500
Refrigerators/Freezers, Room A/Cs, Dishwashers, Clothes Washers, Dehumidifiers: Incentive Included in Retail Price
Central A/C: $200
Air Source Heat Pumps: $500
Heat Pump Water Heater: $750
Lighting: Incentive Included in Retail Price
Geothermal Heat Pumps: $500-$1,500
High Efficiency Furnace, Natural Gas Boiler, and Boiler Circulator Pump: Instant Discounts of $25-$800
Incentive Type: PACE Financing
Website: cpace.comIncentive Amount:
Locally determined
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 Enfield
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar energy system. Consider each of these elements in your company search.
Licensing and Training
In Connecticut, an installer who meet minimum experience requirements can take an exam to become a licensed solar PV or thermal contractor. Once they're licensed, they'll need to register with the state's Clean Energy Fund, so their customers can earn incentives. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most recognized are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.
Cost of Solar Panels in Enfield
Your solar panels' style will affect how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
Additional accessories, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers include these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.
If you're a resident of Enfield and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $18,750 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,206 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $940 |
| Thin-Film | $550 |
| Solar Battery | $772 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,894 |
Financing Solar Energy in Enfield
Solar companies use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are cash payments, solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We advise working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Talk to each agent about what's available, and get more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Enfield.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.9 years |
| 2 kW | 3.8 years |
| 5 kW | 9.4 years |
| 10 kW | 18.9 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Enfield
How much money could I save by going solar in Enfield?
Is solar energy easily accessible in Enfield?
Should I expect a boost in my property value after installing solar panels?
What if I live in a heavily-wooded or gloomy
How long is a Enfield solar panel's average lifespan?
What size should my new Enfield solar system be?
How can I enhance my solar array's performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
Some states or power companies oblige you to enroll in net metering when purchasing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you participate, you'll earn a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a retail or wholesale rate.
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