Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple benefits. Let's look at a few of them.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the premium cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to help pay for your energy bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with energy storage systems function through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on your power company for your safety and well-being.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Bloomfield Homeowners?
Governments and utilities often reward homeowners for switching to solar. Here are some of the tax credits, rebates, or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: michigansaves.orgIncentive Amount:
$30,000
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 Bloomfield
The more comprehensive your company research is, the better your solar system will ultimately function. Consider each of these aspects in your service provider search.
Licensing and Training
Michigan law has a de facto licensing requirement for solar photovoltaic installers. In other words, while solar contractors technically don't need a license by the letter of the law, workers dealing with electrical wiring jobs do need a license. Solar thermal systems must be installed by a licensed mechanical contractor. Solar providers can also obtain certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. 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 Bloomfield
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers include these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.
If you're a resident of Bloomfield and want a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $20,300 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,170 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $912 |
Thin-Film | $533 |
Solar Battery | $749 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,807 |
Financing Solar Energy in Bloomfield
There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and cash payments. We recommend 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 panel 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 benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, much like 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. Look for providers that offer multiple 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 Bloomfield.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal tax credit for solar panels on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own financing programs, rebates, and incentives that could save you more money.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.1 years |
2 kW | 4.1 years |
5 kW | 10.2 years |
10 kW | 20.5 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Bloomfield
How much money could I save by going solar in Bloomfield?
How common is solar energy in Bloomfield?
Will solar panels increase my Bloomfield home worth?
What if I live in a dark or gloomy
What upkeep do my solar panels need, and how frequently do they need it?
What size should my new Bloomfield solar system be?
How can I enhance my solar panels' performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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