Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the added cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity at home. Plus, many states provide 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 panel systems with energy storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the grid for your safety and well-being.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Pearland Homeowners?
Texas homeowners who upgrade to solar could qualify for special financing, reimbursements, rebates and tax credits. Here are just a few of the local incentive programs.
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 Pearland
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar energy system. Here are some important factors to keep in mind while searching for a solar installer.
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. Solar providers can also obtain certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most respected ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Pearland
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point 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 installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these optional components, so look for a provider that sells them if it's a priority for you.
If you're a resident of Pearland and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $16,650 for materials and labor. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,173 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $915 |
Thin-Film | $535 |
Solar Battery | $750 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,814 |
Financing Solar Energy in Pearland
There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), leases, 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 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. Similar to an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for installers that offer two or more 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 Pearland.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even 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 Pearland
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Pearland?
Will solar panels raise my Pearland home price?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a rainy, wooded, or dark area?
How can I determine my home's solar potential?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
What are some "red flags" to watch for as I research companies?
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Dodging questions about credentials and training, references, warranties and cost
- Inflexible options
- Rushing through the site assessment
- No business filing with your local secretary of state
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