Massachusetts is one of the leaders in green technology. Not only does it have numerous wind turbines, but it also has a large solar power plant in the state. This article will help determine just how much money you can be making from the state’s solar energy incentives by using publicly available data sources and various online calculators.
The Value Of Solar Energy Incentives In Massachusetts
The state of Massachusetts offers a premium for commercial solar energy systems, and more specifically, for rooftop solar installations. The state has heavily invested in alternative energy, particularly solar energy, and as a result, many solar-related businesses have opened up in the state. In 2017, there were over 140,000 solar energy systems in Massachusetts, and this is expected to grow to at least 220,000 systems by 2020. The incentive for this system is as follows: system owners can get 5.83 cents/kWh for the power generated by their system, with a maximum of 2.5 kW.
The value of these incentives depends on a number of factors, including the size of the system, how long the system has been operational, and the location of the system. Publicly available data sources and online calculators can help determine just how much money you can make from this incentive.
How To Calculate The Value Of Your Solar Energy System In Massachusetts
There are various online tools that you can use to determine the value of your solar energy system in Massachusetts. One of the most popular solar valuation tools is produced by the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL). You will need to register for a free account on their website to use their valuation tools, however, their website is easily accessible and well-designed, which makes it very user-friendly and easy to navigate.
The NREL SunWise program, which is available on their website, can be used to determine the value of your solar energy system. Simply enter your system’s details, including the type of system, the capacity, and the address where you’ll plug it in, and the program will do the rest. You will then see a report showing you the estimated value of your system based on how much sunlight it obtains, how long it has been operating, and the current price of electricity.
NREL also produces a cost-effective way to purchase a solar energy system. Their certified solar consultants work with individuals, small businesses, and larger corporations to reduce their energy costs and to become more sustainable. They can provide you with an in-depth report on the value of your system, as well as help you find the best financing for your needs.
What Happens To My Solar Energy Instalment Once I Sign The Contract?
Once you have determined the value of your system using one of the methods discussed above, you can sign a contract with an installer to have your system constructed. Depending on the type of system that you have selected, the contract will either be for a system of a certain size or for each megawatt hour that you produce (one megawatt hour is equal to 1000 kilowatt hours).
Once the contract is signed, the system will be produced and installed in about a week, depending on the size of the structure. The installation process itself usually takes about four to six hours, and then you’ll need to set up the system to operate independently, which will take another two to four hours. Finally, you will need to configure the system to work with your state’s electricity provider, which on average, takes about an hour. The entire process from signing the contract to having your system operational is usually between eight and twelve hours.
After your system is operational, you will need to maintain it by executing some simple tasks, such as connecting it to the grid and checking for energy produced and delivered to the grid. This can be done manually, or you can use the software that came with your system. The software will notify you via e-mail or text message when you’re approaching the minimum amount of energy generated or purchased from the grid. When this occurs, you will need to decide whether or not to buy more energy from the grid. This will again, depend on your contract with the installer, but most likely, you will be required to purchase more energy for a period of time, until your system is paid off. Once this occurs, you will no longer need to purchase energy from the grid.
Key Takeaways
If you’re interested in investing in solar energy, then Massachusetts is a desirable location to do so. Not only does it have a large pool of green enthusiasts, but it also has a number of government incentives to promote and support sustainable energy. This article discussed several ways that you can leverage these incentives to earn a profit from solar energy investment.