Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
- Lowered energy bills: With solar energy systems, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-connected power. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Adopting solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Atlanta Homeowners?
Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for switching to solar. Here are some of the tax credits, rebates, or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: georgiapower.comIncentive Amount:
Single Family
Central AC Replacement: $50
Air/Duct Sealing: $300
Attic Insulation: $250
Heat Recovery Water Heater with Heat Pump: $250
Heat Pump Water Heater: $250
Solar Water Heater: $250
Home Energy Assessment: $150
Smart Thermostat: $75
Heat Pump conversion: $250
Multifamily
Central AC Replacement: $25
Air/Duct Sealing: $150
Attic Insulation: $125
Heat Recovery Water Heater with Heat Pump: $250
Heat Pump Water Heater: $250
Solar Water Heater: $250
Home Energy Assessment: $75
Smart Thermostat: $38
Heat Pump conversion: $125
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: cgemc.comIncentive 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 Atlanta
The price and performance of solar panels often hinge on the solar company that installed them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.
If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you'll usually pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right ones, you can make your panel array more efficient and user-friendly. Not all solar installers include these extras, so look for an installer that has them if it's crucial for you.
Licensing and Training
Georgia doesn't have solar-specific contractors' licenses, but the law does require solar installers to be licensed electrical contractors. The Georgia Secretary of State manages business filings and licenses. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most prestigious are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional 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.
Financing Options
Choosing the optimal financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include loans, leases, cash payments, and power purchase agreements. We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the highest 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 have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar incentives to cut your total costs. Solar loans are another good 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 spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. We suggest working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each agent about what's available, and acquire more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Atlanta
How much money could I save by going solar in Atlanta?
How prevalent is solar energy in Atlanta?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after going solar?
What if I live in a dark or gloomy
What can I do to estimate my home's solar viability?
What's the average solar system size in Atlanta?
How does "net metering" work, and do I need to participate?
Some states or utilities require you to participate in net metering when purchasing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you participate, you'll get a bill credit or check for your excess generation at a retail or wholesale rate.
How are a solar lease and PPA different?
You don't own the panels with either option, though you can choose to "buy out" of the contract for a fee.
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