Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple perks. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems work through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the power grid for your safety and comfort.
- Smaller power bills: Generating some or all of your own energy will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that allow you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Livonia Homeowners?
Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for going solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits 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 Livonia
The purchase price and performance of solar panels often depend on the solar company that mounted them. Here are some essential aspects to consider while shopping for a solar provider.
Licensing and Training
Michigan law has a de facto licensing requirement for solar photovoltaic installers. In other words, there's no explicit requirement for solar installers to have a license, but workers dealing with electrical wiring jobs do need a license. Solar thermal systems must be installed by a licensed mechanical contractor. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most recognized are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional 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 Livonia
The kind of solar panels you select decides how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can improve your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar company provides these additional features, so look for a provider that sells them if it's crucial for you.
You can plan to spend about $20,300 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Livonia. Use the table in this section to get an idea of the amount Livonia solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,133 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $883 |
| Thin-Film | $516 |
| Solar Battery | $725 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,718 |
Financing Solar Energy in Livonia
Solar contractors offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans, solar 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 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 a home or car 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 power purchase agreement 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 suitable in particular circumstances. Ask each company you're considering about the payment options it offers. A representative can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Livonia.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through local governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
| 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 Livonia
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How popular is solar energy in Livonia?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after installing solar panels?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a dark, rainy, or wooded area?
What can I do to estimate my home's solar viability?
What is the average payback period for Livonia solar panels?
How can I boost my solar array's 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
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
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