Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the expensive cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity at home. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home running through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery backup system.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Rosenberg Homeowners?
Governments and utility companies often reward homeowners for embracing 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 Rosenberg
The cost and efficiency of solar panels often rely on which company mounted them. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
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 for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Rosenberg
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power 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.
If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more effective and user-friendly. Not all solar companies include these extras, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's crucial for you.
Generally speaking, it will cost about $16,650 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Rosenberg. This table displays more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,278 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $997 |
| Thin-Film | $583 |
| Solar Battery | $818 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $3,068 |
Financing Solar Energy in Rosenberg
Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are cash payments, solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar leases. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put 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 won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in particular circumstances. Ask each company you're considering about the payment plans it offers. A consultant can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Rosenberg.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
| 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 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Solar Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Rosenberg
How much money could I save by going solar in Rosenberg?
How widespread is solar energy in Rosenberg?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after going solar?
What is a Rosenberg solar panel's average lifespan?
What care do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?
What is the average payback period for Rosenberg solar panels?
How does "net metering" work, and do I need to participate?
Some states or energy providers require you to join net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll receive a bill credit or check for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.
How are a solar lease and PPA different?
You don't own the panels with either option, though you can choose to "buy out" of the contract for a fee.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
