Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during grid outages and storms.
- Reduced energy costs: Generating some or all of your own energy 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 unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power lowers your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Arlington Homeowners?
Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for embracing solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Deduction
Incentive Amount:
20% of the sales tax paid by an individual
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Website: law.lis.virginia.govIncentive Amount:
Depends on the local governing body
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Website: dmme.virginia.govIncentive Amount:
Varies (local option)
Incentive Type: Green Building Incentive
Website: environment.arlingtonva.usIncentive 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 Arlington
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar energy system. Consider all of these criteria in your business search.
Licensing and Training
Since 2012, Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors working on solar PV systems. Even if a contractor has an AES license, they may still need to subcontract plumbing, electrical or HVAC work. Check a company's website for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Arlington
Your solar panels' type will affect how much energy you can produce. 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.
If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor offers these additional features, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.
You can plan to spend about $17,950 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Arlington. Check the table in this section to get an idea of how much Arlington solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,205 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $940 |
| Thin-Film | $550 |
| Solar Battery | $771 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,893 |
Financing Solar Energy in Arlington
Choosing the right financing solution will affect your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include leases, loans, cash payments, and power purchase agreements. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put 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 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. We recommend working with an installer that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each agent about what's available, and get more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your financial plan.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Arlington.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential solar equipment 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 | 2.3 years |
| 2 kW | 4.6 years |
| 5 kW | 11.6 years |
| 10 kW | 23.2 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Arlington
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How widespread is solar energy in Arlington?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after going solar?
What if I live in a dark or gloomy
What is a Arlington solar panel's average lifespan?
What is the average payback period for Arlington solar panels?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from installer, local banks, the government and specialty lenders. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are greater, and you'll be responsible for taking care of the system, you'll also have total ownership and can apply for many more benefits.
Should I get quotes from multiple Arlington solar companies?
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