For almost everyone reading this, the idea of setting up a home solar system is a appealing one. As the energy crisis worsens and electricity bills rise, more people are considering ways to generate their own power and to be independent of the electricity companies. In the last few years alone, the cost of solar panels has dropped by more than 50 percent, making them a much more affordable option. With mounting pressure for action, more and more people are looking to install solar energy systems in their homes. If you’re among them, check out these great tips on how to set up a home solar system in the US.
Take Advantage Of The Federal Tax Credit
If you’re looking into solar energy, you’ll certainly want to take advantage of the federal tax credit. This credit, which currently amounts to $15,000, can be used to offset your solar energy system’s cost. That means you can put in less upfront money and enjoy the benefits of energy generation for a longer period. The credit will be fully repaid through your annual tax bill when you sell your electricity to the grid. In some states, such as New York and California, the credit is worth more than 10 percent of the entire cost of your system.
Make Use Of Battery Storage
Even if you’re generating power using solar energy, you’ll still need some form of storage. Your options here are quite varied, from car batteries to large-capacity batteries such as those used by utility companies for wind power storage. Batteries allow you to tap into electricity when the Sun isn’t shining and to use it later when it is. This is particularly useful for storing energy generated during the day when the Sun is out, which would typically be between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you’re deciding between car batteries and large batteries, check out these great tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
Consider Off-Grid Power
If you’re completely reliant on the grid for electricity, it’s a hassle to deal with fluctuations in supply and high costs. Fortunately, there are solutions. Off-grid power is a way of generating and storing electricity so that you can use it whenever you want and not be reliant on the grid. This type of power source, which allows you to be independent of both the grid and the Sun, is quite versatile and allows for a great deal of customization. Some great options for off-grid power include solar diesel generators, gasoline generators, and hydrogen fuel cell generators. Keep in mind that when generating electrical power, diesel engines are much more efficient than gasoline engines. This is because most diesel engines are designed to run on heavy oil or petroleum, which is much more abundant than standard gasoline. If you’re interested in trying out off-grid power, check out these great tips on how to install it.
Know What To Look For
A common question people have when considering a home solar system is: Will my roof withstand the weight of all the machinery and equipment? Luckily for you, we’ve got some great news. All you need is a sturdy roof and a bit of creative thinking to make this project work. One great option is to build an attic space above your garage or roof, where you can place your solar equipment. Attics are great because they are typically built above a garage, which provides you with some great extra inches of room. If you’re wondering if your attic can handle all of this, check out these great tips on how to build an attic space that will be perfect for your needs. Roofs in general can be very tough, especially if they’re built using steel or concrete, so you’ll have nothing to worry about when it comes to your roof.
The Final Step
Once you’ve built your system, there’s only one thing left to do: enjoy the fruits of your labor. You’ll certainly want to keep an eye on your electricity bill each month, as it will tell you how much you’re benefiting from this great investment. When considering solar energy, the cost versus benefit analysis typically comes down to this: Is it worth it? For many people, the answer is a resounding yes. Keep in mind that if you’re looking to reduce your dependence on the grid and would like to see how much you can save, you should put in the necessary effort to reduce your energy consumption. For those seeking to be eco-friendly, going solar is a great way to reduce their impact on the environment. In some states, such as New York and California, the solar tax credit is worth more than 10 percent of the entire cost of your solar energy system, so it’s well worth it. If you’re wondering how much annual savings you’ll receive from being independent, let your electricity bill do the talking. There’s no need to keep track of all of this information manually.