Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power reduces your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
- Lowered energy bills: You can skip the expensive cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home functioning through blackouts and emergencies, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Amarillo Homeowners?
Texas homeowners who go solar could qualify for reimbursements, tax credits, special financing and rebates. Here are just a few of the local incentive offerings.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Website: comptroller.texas.govIncentive Amount:
100%
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: texasgasservice.comIncentive Amount:
Free Equipment Program: Free appliance installation and weatherization services
Home Improvement (includes attic insulation, duct sealing, duct insulation, duct replacement, high-efficiency gas furnace, and Wi-Fi thermostat: Up to $1000
Solar Water Heater With Natural Gas Backup: $750
Tankless or Super High-efficiency Water Heater: $650
Furnace: $675
Furnace Tune-Up: $40
Natural Gas Dryer with moisture sensor: $225
Natural Gas Dryer Stub: $300
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: xcelenergyefficiency.comIncentive Amount:
Residential: $358/kW + $115/kWh
Hard-to-Reach: $420/kW + $0.135/kWh
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 Amarillo
The more informed your company investigation is, the better your solar system will ultimately operate. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point 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 project price, but they can increase your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors include these additional features, so look for a company that has them if it's a priority for you.
Licensing and Training
All solar contractors in Texas must have a state electrical contractors' license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners regulates plumbing regulations and licensing standards for solar thermal installers. 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, awarded 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.
Financing Options
There are various ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will minimize your overhead. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, loans, leases, and cash payments. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only 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. Ask each company you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A staff member can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Amarillo
How much money could I save by going solar in Amarillo?
How prevalent is solar energy in Amarillo?
Should I expect a boost in my property value after installing solar panels?
What is the average payback period for Amarillo solar panels?
What if I live in a rainy or heavily-wooded
How long does the solar installation process require?
How can I maximize my solar system's performance?
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels ,
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer ,
- regularly clean your solar panels ,
- use energy-efficient appliances
