Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
- Better energy independence: Solar systems with battery backups work through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the electrical grid for your safety and well-being.
- Lowered energy bills: With solar energy systems, you generate power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-connected power. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Corpus Christi Homeowners?
Texas agencies and electric companies offer several solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.
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 Corpus Christi
The more comprehensive your provider search is, the better your solar panels will ultimately work. Consider each of these aspects in your contractor search.
The style of solar panels you purchase dictates how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you'll usually pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right ones, you can make your panel array more effective and convenient to use. Not all solar providers offer these additional features, so look for a company that has them if it's crucial 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. Solar installers can also obtain accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Financing Options
There are many ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will minimize your overhead. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar loans. We recommend paying with cash or securing 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 own your system and can apply for solar 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 spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) enables you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We generally don't recommend these two options because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. We recommend working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each salesperson about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your financial plan.
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