Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the premium cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Plano Homeowners?
Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for switching to solar. Here are some of the tax credits, rebates, 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: Rebate Program
Website: support.coserv.comIncentive Amount:
Rebates tiered based on kW installed
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: plano.govIncentive Amount:
$25,000
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 Plano
The more comprehensive your company investigation is, the better your solar installation will ultimately perform. Consider all of these criteria in your service provider search.
Your solar panels' type will affect how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.
If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in dark weather, you'll usually pay extra for accessories. These will increase your total project price, but they can boost your solar system's performance. Not all solar providers offer these add-ons, so look for a company that has them if it's important 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. Solar installers can also pursue accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The top 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.
Financing Options
Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand 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. Like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just 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. Ask each installer you're evaluating about the payment options it offers. A staff member can help you determine the most suitable option for your pocketbook.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Plano
How much money could I save by going solar in Plano?
Is solar energy readily available in Plano?
Will a solar PV system boost my Plano home value?
What is the average payback period for Plano solar panels?
What is a Plano solar panel's average lifespan?
How long does the solar installation process last?
How does "net metering" work, and do I need to participate?
What are some "red flags" to watch for as I research companies?
- [RandomChoice||High-pressure sales tactics|Aggressive sales pitch|Pushy sales approach|Pressuring you into signing a contract]
- [RandomChoice||Dodging questions|Not being straightforward|Being evasive] about {"cost, warranties, references, the crew's [RandomChoice||credentials and training|training and credentials]"|shuffle_list("or")}
- [RandomChoice||Limited or no customization|"One-size-fits-all" approach|Inflexible options]
- [RandomChoice||Not thoroughly inspecting your site|Superficial, rushed site evaluation|Rushing through the site assessment]
- [RandomChoice||No references or testimonials|More mixed or negative reviews than positive ones|Limited customer feedback|Limited online information|No business filing with your local secretary of state]
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