Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems function through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the electrical grid for your safety and comfort.
- Lowered energy bills: With solar panels, you generate power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-tied power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant number of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Four Corners Homeowners?
The state of Florida offers a number of solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
All
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Residential: 100% of the added value
Non-Residential: 80% of the added value
Incentive Type: PACE Financing
Website: floridapace.govIncentive Amount:
Determined locally
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: lakelandelectric.comIncentive Amount:
$5,000
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 Four Corners
The more informed your provider search is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately work. Consider each of these aspects in your contractor search.
Licensing and Training
Once an electrical professional in Florida has four years of field experience, including one year as an apprentice, they can pass two tests to earn a CV license with the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. Florida also allows electrical contractors to install solar panels, but they may need to subcontract some tasks to a licensed roofer. Solar providers can also pursue certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most respected ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Four Corners
The type of solar panels you select determines how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. 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 recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.
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 every solar company provides these extras, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's a priority for you.
Most Four Corners homeowners select solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $16,050 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,088 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $848 |
Thin-Film | $496 |
Solar Battery | $696 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,610 |
Financing Solar Energy in Four Corners
Solar installers 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 leases, solar loans and power purchase agreements (PPAs). We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in certain circumstances. Look for installers that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Four Corners.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 1.7 years |
2 kW | 3.5 years |
5 kW | 8.6 years |
10 kW | 17.3 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Four Corners
How much money could I save by going solar in Four Corners?
Is solar energy readily available in Four Corners?
Will a solar PV system boost my Four Corners home value?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a rainy, wooded, or dark area?
What size should my new Four Corners solar system be?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Four Corners?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
Some states or energy providers require you to join net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll get a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a retail or wholesale rate.
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from installer, local banks, specialty lenders and the government. 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 maintenance, you'll also have complete ownership and can apply for many more benefits.
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