2020 has been a hard year, but with 2021 comes the promise of fresh starts and new resolutions. If you’ve been on the fence about residential solar panels, now is a good time to make the switch. Here are a few amazing benefits you can get from going solar.
1. Helping Other People (and the Planet!)
In the United States, solar power has created more employment opportunities, a crucial necessity in today’s climate. Almost 250,000 Americans work in the solar industry, which created over 5,000 new jobs last year. In just five years, solar jobs increased 44% faster than the national job growth.
Relying on renewable energy sources is also much better for our environment. Solar energy doesn’t make any gas emissions, meaning it doesn’t produce nearly as many harmful pollutants. Using solar energy has also been proven to reduce the risks of respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems.
2. Reducing Your Energy Bills
In a time of economic uncertainty, it’s important to save as much extra money as possible. Many people don’t realize how expensive electricity is: about 13 cents per kilowatt, whereas solar energy costs as little as six cents per kilowatt depending on your location and setup.
Additionally, installing solar panels is now cheaper than ever. For the average home, you can expect to pay anywhere between $11,000-$15,000. While this may seem like a high-cost upfront, solar panels can last over 40 years if kept in good condition. Considering that your electricity bills will be cut in half, it’s also a great investment.
3. Taking Advantage of Tax Rebates
Get all the latest information about the Solar ITC Credit here!
2021 will be the last year to claim the 26% Investment Tax Credit. So homeowners who go solar in 2021 can rest assured that some of the upfront installation costs will be repaid! The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (or ITC) guarantees that you will be refunded up to 26% of initial installation costs if your system is approved and installed before the end of 2021.
However, the tax credit may not extend past the end of the year. So homeowners who have been waiting to make the transition should act soon before the incentive disappears completely.
4. Increasing Your Home’s Value
A set of solar panels can also increase your home’s value substantially. One study found that buyers were willing to pay a premium of up to $15,000 for access to solar energy. This number is only expected to go up as more Americans are investing in solar each year.
The popularity of solar energy ultimately depends on your area. However, it’s worth noting that California uses more solar energy than any other state.
Choosing the Right Solar Panel Companies in Los Angeles
To learn more about the benefits that solar energy can have on your lifestyle, download our free brochure “Living with Solar” today. And if you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today and one of our Energy Coordinators will be happy to help!
