Are you paying too much money for electricity and other utilities? Are you seeking a cleaner energy source? If you answered yes to either of these questions, solar power could very well be for you.
The U.S. government is working to boost the solar industry by providing tax credits and incentives. Depending on which state you live in, you could be eligible for financial compensation if you install solar panels for space heating and cooling, cooking and for water heating. Since the government has not yet determined how to tax sunlight, solar energy becomes much more affordable than your average utility companies. Did you know that 48 percent of energy costs in U.S. homes came from heating and cooling expenses? Sending less money to your utility company means you’ll have 48 percent more money in your pocketbook.
Solar energy produces no pollution, has no environmental effects and is ecologically acceptable. Energy sources such as oil and gas are in high demand and are nonrenewable. In fact, a solar-powered home eliminates the need for much of the oil and gas usage in homes. According to solarworld.com, the average American household generates more than seven tons of carbon dioxide each year. Combined with other homes and businesses, the impact of using fossil fuels results in serious damage to the world’s ecosystem. The impact of greenhouse gases due to carbon emissions has been blamed for melting glaciers and disintegrating shorelines.
In addition to being earth friendly, a solar powered home can have a higher value on the market. According to a study performed by the Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory has shown that:
- Adding solar panels to your home can increase the resale value by an average of $5.50 per watt;
- Using a 3.1kW system can add up to $17,000 to your home; and
- Homes using solar energy sell 15 percent faster than homes that do not.
