Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the premium cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity at home. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home running through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Irving Homeowners?
Texas' public agencies and power companies offer a range of solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of available 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 Irving
The more thorough your company research is, the better your solar installation will ultimately perform. Consider each of these elements in your contractor search.
Licensing and Training
All solar installers 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 PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer 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 Irving
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more effective and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor provides these add-ons, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.
If you're a resident of Irving and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $16,650 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,206 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $941 |
Thin-Film | $550 |
Solar Battery | $772 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,895 |
Financing Solar Energy in Irving
Choosing the optimal financing solution will affect your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include loans, power purchase agreements, leases, and cash payments. We recommend making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the best 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 panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another solid 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) lets you pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each provider you're evaluating about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Irving.
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. City and state 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 Irving
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Irving?
Will solar energy systems raise my Irving home worth?
How long is a Irving solar panel's average lifespan?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What size should my new Irving solar system be?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
Some states or utilities mandate you to participate in net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll get a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a retail or wholesale rate.
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