Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lower energy bills: Producing some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery backup lets you have reliable energy during grid outages and storms.
- 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.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to McKinney Homeowners?
Texas' public agencies and power companies offer a number of solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here is 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: Rebate Program
Website: support.coserv.comIncentive Amount:
Rebates tiered based on kW installed
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 McKinney
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar array. Here are some crucial criteria to consider while searching for a solar company.
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. 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.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. By choosing the right ones, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not all solar installers include these extras, so look for an installer 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. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Financing Options
Choosing the optimal financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans, solar leases and cash payments. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car loan or mortgage, 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 involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) enables you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and cannot use solar incentives. Look for companies that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in McKinney
How much money could I save by going solar in McKinney?
Is solar energy easily accessible in McKinney?
Will solar panels raise my McKinney home value?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in McKinney?
What if I live in a dark or heavily-wooded
How can I assess my site's solar feasibility?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
What's the difference between a PPA and a solar lease?
If you choose a lease, you'll make fixed monthly payments.
With both leases and PPAs, you do not own your panels and lose eligibility for most incentives. Further, you'll have to "buy out" or transfer the contract if you sell your home during the term.
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