Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power lowers your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
- Reduced energy costs: Generating some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Burke Homeowners?
The state of Virginia offers a variety of solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
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: 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 Burke
The more thorough your provider search is, the better your solar system will ultimately function. Make your choice based on the following key factors.
Licensing and Training
Since 2012, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors who install solar photovoltaic systems. A contractor with an AES license may need to subcontract plumbing, HVAC or electrical work. Solar companies can also obtain certificates from standards organizations and trade groups. The most respected 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.
Cost of Solar Panels in Burke
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 produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can maximize your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar providers offer these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.
If you're a resident of Burke and want a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $17,950 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| 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 Burke
Choosing the correct financing plan will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, leases, cash payments, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up 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 rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Ask each installer you're evaluating about the payment plans it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Burke.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.
| 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 Burke
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Burke?
Will solar energy systems raise my Burke home worth?
What is a Burke solar panel's average lifespan?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What is the average payback period for Burke solar panels?
What are the signs I shouldn't use a particular solar company for my job?
- Pressuring you into signing a contract
- Being evasive about training and credentials, references, warranties and cost
- Inflexible options
- Not thoroughly inspecting your site
- No references or testimonials
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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