Solar Power: Cut Your Electric Costs Now

Solar Power: Cut Your Electric Costs Now
by Chris Ulrich

Oil prices are on the rise again, and electricity prices will soon follow. Over the last 15 years, the solar power industry has made tremendous strides in producing solar energy.

As the cost of electricity climbing and the cost for solar energy systems coming down, now is the time to learn the facts about solar energy.

Is Solar Power Truly Affordable?

Yes, thanks to government rebates. The federal, state and local governments are now giving large incentives to home owners. Depending upon where you live, you may be incentivised 35% – 65% of the cost of your solar power system. With financing available through many solar energy companies (as well as home equity loans) many will be able to reduce monthly electric bills by more than the system costs.

Will the Utilities Buy Surplus Electricity from Me?

Yes, the utilities will “buy” your excess electricity as it is produced. If your solar energy system produces more electricity than your house is using at that moment, the surplus electric feeds back into the power grid, and your power meter will literally rotate backwards! If you are away from your home, and leave as many electric items turned off as possible, the extra electricity can automatically flow back earning you money.

Are Professional Installers Available for Solar Power Systems?

Absolutely. In fact, because you are integrating with the electric system of your home, it is strongly suggested that an experienced licensed electrician install the system for you. Most solar power installation companies have their own electricians for this purpose.

What is Required to Get a Solar Energy System?

Generally, you should have a home with exposure to the south, southeast or southwest. You will want to have as few shadows on the roof as possible. Having your house in the southern United States has advantages, but home owners in the north also benefit greatly from solar energy. Before you make a purchase, most reputable solar energy companies send an experienced technician to inspect your house, property and landscape to determine whether solar power is appropriate and what sort of savings you can see.

Is Solar Energy Really Good for the Environment?

Yes. While power is does not produce polution, the oil required to generate the electricity is not. By harnessing the energy of the sun, you are truly able to generate your own electricity with no negative impact on the environment. This reduces pollutants in the air, decreases our demand on foreign oil, and helps to lower the overall cost structure of power in this country.

Does the Fed Really Support Solar Energy?

Yes. There are federal, state and local programs specifically designed to encourage home owners to switch to solar energy (as well as wind and other alternative energies). Our government is aware that the fossil fuels will not last forever, and our dependency on them is bad for our country as well as our ecology. By offering incentives for people to convert to solar power, the fed is making an investment in you, to help resolve the energy crisis. In the coming years, millions can switch to solar energy, significantly reducing tax our dependency on foreign oil.

What Does a Solar Energy System Cost?

This depends on the amount of energy you need to produce. Clearly the larger the system, the more energy you can make. Solar Power Systems can range from $10,000-$30,000 or more depending upon your needs. If a system costs $20,000 and the government pays 65%, the cost to you is $7,000. Depending on how you choose to finance this, this may cost you approximately $50-$75 per month. Most will save more than this in their first month on their electric bill. The exact savings will be based upon the price of the system, the tax incentives, and the amount you pay today for electricity.

For more information, we encourage you to visit our website at http://WWW.SaveWithSolar.org

About the Author:
By Chris Ulrich. SaveWithSolar.org shares great tips about solar energy and ways to save with solar power. Get the facts, including quotes on the solar power rebates available in your county!


Processing your request, Please wait....