Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Smaller power bills: Producing some or all of your own power will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing 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 reliable energy during storms and grid outages.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Arlington Homeowners?
Texas homeowners who go solar could qualify for reimbursements, rebates, tax credits and special financing. 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: 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 Arlington
The more informed your company investigation is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately function. Here are some essential aspects to keep in mind while shopping for a solar company.
Licensing and Training
All solar energy companies 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. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar sector's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Arlington
Your solar modules' model will affect how much electricity 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 are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.
If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not all solar companies provide these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.
Generally speaking, it will cost about $16,650 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Arlington. This table shows more specific pricing information for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,173 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $915 |
Thin-Film | $535 |
Solar Battery | $750 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,814 |
Financing Solar Energy in Arlington
There are many ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. 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 reduce 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 installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and cannot use solar incentives. Look for contractors 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 Arlington.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own rebates, financing programs, and incentives that could save you more money.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.1 years |
2 kW | 4.2 years |
5 kW | 10.6 years |
10 kW | 21.2 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Arlington
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy easily accessible in Arlington?
Will a solar PV system improve my Arlington home worth?
How can I determine my home's solar feasibility?
Is installing solar panels a quick job?
What's the average solar system size in Arlington?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from the government, installer, local banks and specialty lenders. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are larger, 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.
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