Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy has multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with battery storage systems operate through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the grid for your safety and comfort.
- Lower utility costs: Producing some or all of your own power will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- 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 "traditional" sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Layton Homeowners?
Utah's public agencies and power companies offer multiple solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of applicable solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Corporate Tax Credit
Website: energy.utah.govIncentive Amount:
Commercial wind, geothermal electric, and biomass systems 660 kW or greater, and solar PV systems 2 MW or greater: 0.35¢/kWh ($0.0035/kWh) for 4 years
Other commercial technologies and commercial wind, geothermal electric, solar PV, and biomass systems smaller than 600 kW: 10% of installed cost
Photovoltaic systems between 660 kW and 2 MW: May choose either 0.35¢/kWh ($0.0035/kWh) for 4 years or 10% of installed cost
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: energy.utah.govIncentive Amount:
Residential: 25%
Commercial wind, geothermal electric, and biomass systems 660 kW or greater 0.35¢/kWh ($0.0035/kWh) for 4 years
Other commercial technologies and commercial wind, geothermal electric, and biomass systems smaller than 660 kW: 10% of installed cost
Solar photovoltaic systems 2 MW or greater: 0.35¢/kWh ($0.0035/kWh) for 4 years
Solar photovoltaic systems smaller than 660 kW: 10% of installed costSolar photovoltaic systems between 660 kW and 2 MW: May choose either 0.35¢/kWh ($0.0035/kWh) for 4 years or 10% of installed cost
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: wattsmarthomes.comIncentive Amount:
Ductless Heat Pumps: Up to $1,700
Electronically Commutated Motors: Up to $100
Evaporative Coolers: Up to $200
Heat Pumps: up to $750
Ground Source Heat Pumps: up to $2,500
Rooftop Heat Tape Timer: up to $100
Room Air Conditioners: Up to $20
Smart Thermostats: $50
Whole House Ventilation Fans: up to $125
Manufactured Homes Duct Sealing: Free service available
Manufactured Homes Ductless Heat Pumps: Up to $1,300
Lighting: Special pricing at certain retailers
Heat Pump Water Heaters: up to $550
Insulation: Up to $0.10/sq.ft
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 Layton
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar system. Consider all of these factors in your service provider search.
Licensing and Training
If a solar energy system in Utah doesn't connect to the grid, it's exempt from contractor licensing requirements. For other jobs, solar contractors must hold license S202, a specialty credential from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. The license requires a 25-hour course to obtain. Solar companies can also pursue certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Layton
Your solar panels' type will influence how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar contractors include these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's essential for you.
A majority of Layton homeowners select solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $16,450 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,112 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $867 |
Thin-Film | $507 |
Solar Battery | $712 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,669 |
Financing Solar Energy in Layton
There are many ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include loans, cash payments, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). We recommend paying with cash or securing a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for companies that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Layton.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.2 years |
2 kW | 4.4 years |
5 kW | 11.0 years |
10 kW | 21.9 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Layton
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How common is solar energy in Layton?
Will solar energy systems improve my Layton home worth?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a dark, rainy, or wooded area?
Is solar panel installation a quick job?
What is the average payback period for Layton solar panels?
How can I enhance my solar panels' performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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