Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple advantages. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
- Lowered energy bills: With solar panels, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-connected 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.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Hinesville Homeowners?
Georgia agencies and electric companies offer multiple solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
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 Hinesville
The more comprehensive your provider search is, the better your solar system will ultimately perform. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.
Licensing and Training
Georgia doesn't have contractors' licenses specific to solar energy, 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 accreditations. Two of the most prestigious are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, backed 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 Hinesville
Your solar modules' type will affect how much power you can generate. 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.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar contractor includes these optional components, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.
Most Hinesville homeowners choose solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $18,700 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,128 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $879 |
| Thin-Film | $514 |
| Solar Battery | $722 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,706 |
Financing Solar Energy in Hinesville
Choosing the ideal financing plan will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include loans, power purchase agreements, leases, and cash payments. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to 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 don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each business you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Hinesville.
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 financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.8 years |
| 2 kW | 3.5 years |
| 5 kW | 8.8 years |
| 10 kW | 17.7 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Hinesville
How much money could I save by going solar in Hinesville?
How prevalent is solar energy in Hinesville?
Will solar panels increase my Hinesville home worth?
How can I check my site's solar suitability?
How long is a Hinesville solar panel's average lifespan?
What's the average solar system size in Hinesville?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
Some states or utilities oblige you to participate in net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you join, you'll receive 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 opt out of the contract for a fee.
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