Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the expensive cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to help pay for your energy 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 energy can keep your home running through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery storage.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Laredo Homeowners?
Texas agencies and electric companies offer numerous solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of applicable 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 Laredo
The more informed your company research is, the better your solar installation will ultimately function. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.
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. Check a company's website for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar sector's most trusted trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Laredo
Your solar panels' model will influence how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
If you want to charge an electric car or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider provides these extras, so look for a company that sells them if it's a priority for you.
Generally speaking, it costs about $16,650 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Laredo. This table displays more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,005 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $784 |
Thin-Film | $458 |
Solar Battery | $643 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,412 |
Financing Solar Energy in Laredo
There are various ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand 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 car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in particular circumstances. Look for installers that offer several 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 Laredo.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.
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 Laredo
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy readily available in Laredo?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after adopting solar power?
What if I live in a rainy or gloomy
Is solar installation a quick job?
What care do my solar panels need, and how frequently do they need it?
What are some "red flags" to watch for as I research companies?
- Aggressive sales pitch
- Being evasive about warranties, references, cost and credentials and training
- "One-size-fits-all" approach
- Rushing through the site assessment
- More mixed or negative reviews than positive ones
How are traditional solar loans and PPAs different?
In contrast, solar loans can come from the government, specialty lenders, local banks and installer. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are greater, and you'll be responsible for maintenance, you'll also have complete ownership and can apply for many more incentives.
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