Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple benefits. Let's look at a few of them.
- Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the expensive cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it.
- Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery lets you have reliable energy during grid outages and storms.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power reduces your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Johns Creek Homeowners?
Governments and utility companies often reward homeowners for going solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits 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: Rebate Program
Website: jacksonemc.comIncentive Amount:
PV: $450/kW-DC
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 Johns Creek
The more comprehensive your company research is, the better your solar panels will ultimately perform. Here are some key items to bear in mind while searching for a solar company.
Your solar modules' type will influence how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.
Additional components, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall investment. These upgrades extend your system's efficiency while adding more conveniences to your home. Not every solar installer provides these add-ons, so look for a contractor that has them if it's important for you.
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 licenses and business filings. Solar companies can also earn certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Financing Options
There are a plethora of ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, leases, and cash payments. 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 incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in particular circumstances. We recommend working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Ask each consultant about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Johns Creek
How much money could I save by going solar in Johns Creek?
Is solar energy easily accessible in Johns Creek?
Should I expect a property value increase after going solar?
What can I do to assess my home's solar potential?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What size should my new Johns Creek solar system be?
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.
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
You might look into a PPA if you don't want to be responsible for maintaining your panels and don't want to invest in a system, but keep in mind you won't be paying toward ownership or be able to access any solar financial incentives. Many solar experts don't recommend PPAs. Our guide covers other financing options above.
