Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Adopting solar is a surefire way to lower your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
- Reduced energy costs: Generating some or all of your own power will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Metairie Homeowners?
Louisiana's public agencies and power companies offer a range of solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100%
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: dnr.louisiana.govIncentive Amount:
$6,000 from LA DNR
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: energysmartnola.infoIncentive 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 Metairie
The more informed your company research is, the better your solar panels will ultimately perform. Here are some essential aspects to bear in mind while searching for a solar company.
Licensing and Training
In Louisiana, contractors can earn a solar energy endorsement, or "classification," on their commercial contracting license. To do this, they need to obtain electrical, mechanical, or building endorsements first, then take a written test or prove their certification with NABCEP. Solar providers can also earn certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The top 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 Metairie
Your solar modules' style will affect how much energy 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.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can boost your solar system's performance. Not every solar provider includes these additional features, so look for a company that sells them if it's important for you.
If you're a resident of Metairie and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $19,000 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,083 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $845 |
| Thin-Film | $494 |
| Solar Battery | $693 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,599 |
Financing Solar Energy in Metairie
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 solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments and solar loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Like an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for companies that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Metairie.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.2 years |
| 2 kW | 4.4 years |
| 5 kW | 11.0 years |
| 10 kW | 21.9 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Metairie
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy widely available in Metairie?
Should I expect a boost in my property value after going solar?
How long will a common solar system last?
What care do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?
What size should my new Metairie solar system be?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
You might consider a PPA if you don’t want to be responsible for maintenance 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 cost-saving solar incentives. Many solar experts don’t recommend PPAs. Our guide covers other financing options above.
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