In recent years, the popularity of solar energy has tremendously increased, thanks to falling costs and technological advancements in the field. This explains why the sight of solar panels on roofs is becoming quite common. 

So, is installing solar panels worth the effort and money? The short answer is yes. Installing solar panels is a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re keen on lowering your monthly utility bills.

Here are the main benefits of installing solar panels.

Cost Savings

Most homeowners install solar panels to save on monthly utility bills. Although the upfront installation cost can be quite high, once you’ve installed these solar panels, your monthly energy bill will be significantly reduced or totally slashed depending on your solar power system’s capacity and where you live.

Since you’ll be producing your own electricity at home, your solar panels will pay for themselves many times over as time goes by. Additionally, you may make an extra income by selling surplus solar energy to local utility companies.

As solar panels are designed to last for more than 25 years, you can expect to save thousands of dollars throughout this period. Notably, solar systems never run out of power for as long as the sun exists, meaning you’ll never be affected by power outages.

Works Everywhere

Solar energy is undoubtedly the most accessible form of energy because it works in every place with access to sunlight. Whether you live in a region close to the equator or not, you can install solar panels and put the sun’s energy to use. This makes solar panels particularly ideal in ‘off-grid’ remote areas.

Even in extremely cold and overcast regions, solar panels can still harness the sun’s rays and generate enough electricity to power basic home appliances.

Increases Home Value

Solar panels are seen as upgrades in the real estate market, like home automation systems or remodeled kitchens. Therefore, installing solar panels in your home will likely increase the value of your property.

Most homebuyers like the idea of green living, and they’re usually ready to pay extra for a home with a properly installed and functional solar power system. This is because it saves them the trouble of installing one themselves and frees them from the shackles of skyrocketing energy prices and power outages. As a result, most homes with solar panels sell faster than those without.

According to a recent study by Zillow, homes with solar panels usually sell for approximately 4.1% more than homes without a solar system. The rates are even higher in certain areas of the country.

If you’re planning to sell your home, consider installing solar panels before listing it with a real estate agent. You’ll be able to earn back your initial solar power system investment and maybe more once you sell the property.

Low Maintenance

Some homeowners are hesitant to install solar panels because they believe the maintenance work required could be cumbersome. However, this is not the case. Solar panels don’t have moving parts, so the likelihood of maintenance and repairs is extremely low.

They’re highly durable, and it will take many years before any noteworthy maintenance work is needed. This explains why most solar panel manufacturers can confidently offer long-term warranties.

Once you’ve installed solar panels, all you’ll need to do is clean them a couple of times a year to get rid of dust, debris, and snow. This ensures that your solar panels get as much sunlight as possible.

There are also companies that offer solar panel cleaning services all around the country if you don’t feel like doing the work yourself.

Environmental Conservation

Installing solar panels in your home offers much more than financial benefits. Solar panels utilize clean, renewable energy from the sun, which helps conserve the environment. Reports show that one hour of sunlight is enough to power the planet for a whole year.

The sun will be around for billions of years. This makes solar energy sustainable since you simply can’t overconsume it, and it doesn’t take away from existing resources.

Additionally, solar panels generate electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gasses or causing noise pollution. The small amount of emissions produced during the manufacture of solar panels is usually offset within the first two to three years of use. By installing solar panels, you’re reducing your overall carbon footprint.

Rooftop solar panel installation is even more eco-friendly since it requires no additional land use. This is unlike non-renewable sources of energy, like coal, that require extensive land excavation.

Government Incentives, Cash Rebates, and Tax Breaks

The issue of climate change is a global concern. More and more governments around the globe, including the United States, are coming up with various measures to help combat climate change.

According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE), Congress passed an extension of the Input Tax Credit (ITC) for homeowners who install solar panels. From 2022 to 2032, those who install solar panels will qualify for a 30% tax credit. The tax credit will decrease to 26% and 22% for all solar panels installed in 2033 and 2034, respectively. There is no maximum amount that can be claimed using this ITC.

However, homeowners must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify for this tax credit. For instance, the solar panels must be installed at your primary or secondary U.S. residence for you to claim the tax credit. You must also fully own the solar power system instead of leasing or purchasing electricity generated by another system.

Schedule a Home Inspection Today

If you’re planning to install solar panels at your home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today at Pro Inspect Solutions. We will conduct a comprehensive inspection of your property’s roofing to ensure it can withstand the added weight of solar panels. We will also inspect your home’s electrical system to verify if it can handle the addition of a solar power system.

Book a home inspection with us today for more information.