1. What are the different kinds of solar energy systems?

   2. Which system is right for me?

   3. Why should I go solar?

   4. What is the cost & payback time of a solar system?

   5. What rebates or other incentives are available to me?

  

 

 

 

What are the different kinds of solar energy systems?

 There are many kinds of solar systems. Systems that require collector panels are solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV). Solar thermal systems use the sun's energy to heat water for use in hot water heating systems.  PV systems create electricity that, with the use of a DC converter, powers the electrical components of your home. Wind turbines also create electricity, and are now available in sizes that can fit right into any environment, including your home.

 

Which system is right for me?

 That is a hard question to answer without looking at the needs of a home. Thermal systems can provide heat and hot water for a home’s needs including spa and pool heating.  Many people enjoy connecting a PV system into their meter and powering many of the electrical appliances in their home.  For example, if you have a gas forced-air furnace, electric dryer, or an electric hot water heater, then PV will contribute electricity for the operation of those appliances.  Many times, a combination or hybrid of the two energy systems works best.  All of these systems are virtually maintenance free, and can supply energy for up to 20-30 years or more.

 

Why should I go solar?

 For many people, the environmental impact of not buying energy created in coal burning or nuclear power plant is obvious.  However, there is also a strong financial advantage of going solar that many people don't take into account.  For example, a PV system will provide a fixed energy cost for the life of the system as fossil fuel prices continue to rise. With the consistent increase in the cost of electricity, try to imagine what your electric bill will look like in 20 years without a PV system. Now imagine your electric bill that reads $0. Looks good, huh? Additionally, in some states, homes that incorporate solar energy systems can pay for as much as half of the cost of the system through rebates from their power company and the federal government.

 

What is the cost & payback time of a solar system?

 Generally, with utility rebates and federal tax credits, the payback time of a solar system can run from 5-8 years. The most significant variables in this analysis includes the amount of the rebate afforded by your utility company and your current electrical consumption, which will dictate the amount of PV you will need to eliminate your electric bill.  But the payback period begins the day your PV system is commissioned, and can last as long as your PV system is operational.  This means your investment will be providing a return for nearly 30 years!  Although your PV system will have paid for itself in 5 to 8 years, your investment keeps providing a return for years to come.  And, as the utility company continues to raise their rates, your rate of return (%) continues to climb accordingly.  In addition, the utility company must buy back the excess energy you create from a PV system. This is called net metering. The price they buy it at depends on your local energy provider.

 

What rebates or other incentives are available to me?

 Many utilities are offering rebates for installing solar systems across the country for PV and wind systems that can cover up to 50% of the installation costs. It is much easier to subsidize solar energy than to build another coal fired power plant to keep up with demand. Go to our rebates and tax credit page for links to rebates offered by utilities. In addition, the federal government offers 30% tax credit for installing a solar system.  Think about it; a PV system where 80% of the cost is paid for by others!