Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
- Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the expensive cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home running through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Harrisonburg Homeowners?
Virginia homeowners who decide on solar could qualify for tax credits, reimbursements, rebates and special financing. Here are just a few of the area's incentive programs.
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 Harrisonburg
The more comprehensive your company investigation is, the better your solar panels will ultimately work. Here are some key items to keep in mind while shopping for a solar specialist.
Licensing and Training
Since 2012, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors who work on solar photovoltaic systems. A contractor with an AES license may need to subcontract plumbing, HVAC or electrical work. Solar companies can also earn certificates from standards organizations and trade groups. 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 Harrisonburg
Your solar panels' style will influence how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more effective and user-friendly. Not all solar companies include these optional components, so look for a company that installs them if it's crucial for you.
Generally speaking, it costs about $17,950 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Harrisonburg. This table displays more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,120 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $874 |
| Thin-Film | $511 |
| Solar Battery | $717 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,688 |
Financing Solar Energy in Harrisonburg
There are various ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), leases, loans, and cash payments. We recommend making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the best 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 reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) allows you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for providers 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 Harrisonburg.
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 | 2.3 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 Harrisonburg
How much money could I save by going solar in Harrisonburg?
Is solar energy readily available in Harrisonburg?
Will solar panels raise my Harrisonburg home value?
How long does a typical solar system last?
Is solar panel installation a quick job?
What care do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?
How can I enhance my solar array's 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
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