Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with battery storage systems operate through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the power grid for your safety and comfort.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Lowered energy bills: Solar panels allow you to generate your own energy to power your home, lowering your periodic electricity costs. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant amount of states offer net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Dublin Homeowners?
The state of Ohio offers multiple solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: hamiltoncountyohio.govIncentive Amount:
$50,000
Incentive Type: PACE Financing
Incentive Amount:
Low-interest, 30-year loan
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: tos.ohio.govIncentive Amount:
Rate reduction available for up to $50,000 and 7 years of the bank loan
Incentive Type: Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website: puco.ohio.govIncentive Amount:
SREC prices vary based on market conditions
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: dpandl.comIncentive Amount:
Heating & Cooling
Air Conditioning: $100 - $150, varies by efficiency and equipment application
Air Source Heat Pump: $150 - $250, varies by efficiency and equipment application
Geothermal Heat Pump: $800 - $1,000, varies by efficiency and equipment application
Heat Pump Water Heaters: $400
Airlfow/Climate Control
WiFi Thermostat: $20-$30
Smart Thermostat: $75
Air Insulation & Sealing: Up to $650, must be through approved contractors
Appliance Recycling: $50
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 Dublin
The more comprehensive your company research is, the better your solar installation will ultimately perform. Here are some key items to keep in mind while searching for a solar specialist.
Licensing and Training
Ohio may require a solar company to hold a state contractors' license, but only for commercial work. For home solar panel installations, cities can establish their own licensing or regulatory requirements. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most prestigious 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 Dublin
Your solar modules' style will impact how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. 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 maximize your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors offer these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's crucial for you.
Generally speaking, it costs about $17,050 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Dublin. This table displays more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,122 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $875 |
Thin-Film | $512 |
Solar Battery | $718 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,692 |
Financing Solar Energy in Dublin
There are many ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include cash payments, loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and leases. Most solar experts recommend paying cash 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 involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each business you're considering about the financing options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Dublin.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Additional incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.6 years |
2 kW | 5.2 years |
5 kW | 13.1 years |
10 kW | 26.2 years |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Solar Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Dublin
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy widely available in Dublin?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after going solar?
How can I assess my site's solar viability?
How long is a Dublin solar panel's average lifespan?
What's the average solar system size in Dublin?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from local banks, installer, specialty lenders and the government. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are higher, and you'll be responsible for taking care of the system, you'll also have complete ownership and can apply for many more financial rewards.
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.