Working in the solar industry means that I spend a lot of time talking about solar, which is great. One thing that I hear frequently from people is, "I looked into getting solar a few years ago and it didn't pencil out."
For those of you who are in the same boat I thought I'd tell you what I tell these people.
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Solar panel prices have dropped - In the last couple of years solar panel prices have decreased about 60%. The price drop is due to economies of scale and an oversupply of solar panels. That means that large manufacturers have been able to produce the panels at a lower unit cost because they have become more efficient at manufacturing them and they have produced too many panels leading to an oversupply. That means that the price of the hardware has come down and that might be enough to make solar worth considering again. But you won't know unless you get a quote.
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Solar rebates and incentives are constantly changing - Rebates and incentives are offered at the federal, state, and local levels of government and by utilities. These programs are always changing due to funding cuts and increases. New programs are also coming online all the time that could significantly change you solar quote. For instance maybe your state is now has an SREC program. Knowing how these changes can alter your solar finances cannot be predicted unless you get a detailed solar quote.
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Electricity prices are on the rise - In some cases your electricity bill could have increased as much as 12-15% in the past two years. With a solar power system you are effectively locking in a low rate for electricity for the next 25 to 30 years. Even if you can't afford to buy a system you could look into leasing or a power purchase agreement. Remember, utility rates are never going to go down even if you are buying from utilities that offer green renewable energy sources.
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Solar policies change - Solar policies change all the time. One policy that is crucial to solar affordability is net-metering. Recent changes to net-metering laws could significantly change whether solar now makes sense for you. In addition, maybe your municipality is now offering a P.A.C.E financing program. Qualified solar installers will have all the up to date information on these laws and programs and can advise you on how they can affect your situation.
To be put in touch will qualified solar installers in your area just fill out our free estimate form and you will be on the way to finding out if solar is the right choice for you.
Matthew Ryder-Smith
