Warming Up to the Idea of Solar Energy
There’s good news for individuals who claim there’s nothing new on the planet in terms of saving on energy bills. Experts say new benefits and current conditions are making solar power systems a practical reality for an increasing number of homeowners.
With rising energy prices and concerns to the environment resulting in national security, homeowners are looking at solar panel technology options. A brand new federal tax credit, and many state and local incentives, encourages adopting solar systems. The us government offers a tax credit for 30 percent of the expense of a solar electric or solar water heating system. There isn’t any cap for businesses; homeowners get a maximum $2,000 credit per system installed. Living Off The Grid. Is It Possible?
These credits make solar power systems a feasible solution for trouble heating and electricity production for many building owners. Many homeowners already benefit from solar heating for their pools and spas without government incentives.
“As awareness grows, in addition to summer air-conditioning bills, we expect thousands more to take into account their solar options,” says Brad Collins, executive director of the American Solar Energy Society, located in Boulder, Colorado. “With continued rising energy costs, consumer desire for clean, renewable power from secure U.S. energy sources, and federal tax incentives, we believe more homeowners and business owners look for sustainable alternatives,” he adds. Make Solar Power Yourself
Generally in most states, another advantage of solar electric systems (also known as photovoltaic or PV) will be the option for you excess energy to any local utility grid. For example, if you are a residential customer, your system may generate more electricity than you’ll need throughout the day when your family is away in the office possibly at school. Net metering allows you to send this excess electricity on the grid, spinning your meter backwards, and reducing or offsetting the electricity you use at other times.
Today, solar energy products are top quality and reliable; it is backed by warranties from large, reputable firms and installed by experienced contractors. There are many resources to learn more about solar energy. Install Solar Power in Your Home
“FindSolar.com is an excellent place to start to explore solar energy and to assess the variety of your personal particular home or building,” says Julia Judd, executive director of the Washington, D.C.-based Solar Electric Power Association. “With minimal inputs, including your state, county, utility, and typical monthly energy bill, the website gives you estimates of system size, costs, savings as well as other benefits.”
This entry was posted on Monday, July 26th, 2010 at 3:12 am and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.