Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Better energy independence: Solar systems with battery backups work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on your power company for your safety and comfort.
- Smaller power bills: Generating some or all of your own energy will cut power costs long-term.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Pasadena Homeowners?
Governments and utility companies often reward homeowners for going solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.
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 Pasadena
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar system. Here are some essential aspects to remember while shopping for a solar installer.
The style of solar panels you select decides how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels give you the best performance but cost more upfront. 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.
Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall investment. These will increase your total project price, but they can increase your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar installer provides these additional features, so look for a contractor that has them if it's important for you.
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. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most prestigious are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, granted 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.
Financing Options
Choosing the ideal financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. A few of the most common options include leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, and loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much like a home or auto loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) allows you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each provider you're considering about the payment options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the optimal option for your financial situation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Pasadena
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy widely available in Pasadena?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after adopting solar power?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Pasadena?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What's the average solar system size in Pasadena?
What's the difference between a PPA and a solar lease?
If you choose a lease, you'll make set monthly payments.
With both leases and PPAs, you don't own your panels and lose eligibility for some incentives. Further, you'll have to "buy out" or transfer the contract if you sell your home during the term.
Should I get quotes from multiple Pasadena solar companies?
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