Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy has multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems function through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the grid for your safety and well-being.
- Lower utility costs: Sourcing some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Logan Homeowners?
Utah homeowners who choose solar could qualify for rebates, tax credits, special financing and reimbursements. Here are just a few of the area's incentive programs.
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 Logan
The more comprehensive your company investigation is, the better your solar system will ultimately perform. Here are some important factors to bear in mind while shopping for a solar provider.
Licensing and Training
If a solar energy system in Utah won't hook up to a utility, there are no licensure 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. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most recognized are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, backed 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.
Cost of Solar Panels in Logan
The type of solar panels you purchase determines how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. 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 vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more effective and convenient to use. Not all solar providers include these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.
If you're a resident of Logan and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $16,450 for materials and labor. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,038 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $809 |
Thin-Film | $473 |
Solar Battery | $664 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,490 |
Financing Solar Energy in Logan
Choosing the best financing plan will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, cash payments, leases, and loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment 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 solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Like a home or auto loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable 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 business you're evaluating about the payment plans it offers. A team member can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Logan.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even 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 Logan
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How popular is solar energy in Logan?
Should I expect a property value increase after switching to solar energy?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a wooded, rainy, or dark area?
What size should my new Logan solar system be?
What is the average payback period for Logan solar panels?
How does "net metering" work, and do I need to participate?
Some states or utilities mandate you to participate in net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll get a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.
Should I get quotes from multiple Logan solar companies?
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