For many people today, green energy is a huge concern. We want it from our companies, but don’t often practice it ourselves. At home, solar panels are a great way to reduce the environmental impact your home has, with a host of other positives, like:

Lower Energy Bills

The most obvious boon of solar panels is reduced energy costs. Depending on the amount of sun in your area, the break-even point for solar panels can be as little as two years, though the average is six to eight. To maximize your savings, consider contacting a licensed electrician to complete the installation, as they can work to best optimize the placement and wiring to bring about the lowest costs and highest yields. Average savings number in the tens of thousands over twenty years, increasing for sunnier locations.

Secure, Reliable, Independent

Solar energy comes from the sun, which comes with a number of benefits besides being clean and free: it can’t be monopolized, we know when it’s coming, and no one can limit our access to it. When it comes to energy sources, it’s the only choice a homeowner can make that affords them control; once you own solar panels, you have access to energy, period.

Increase Home Value

Research has shown that market demand for solar panels is strong, with buyers willing to pay a premium for homes already outfitted with systems. The average increase in resale value is around $5,911 per kilowatt, putting the typical 3.1 kilowatt system at a nearly $18,000 jump. In addition, you can enjoy increased roof longevity, as solar panels provide some protection from the elements, and lowered cooling costs, as they reflect sunshine in the summer.

Tax Incentives

No matter where you live, there’s more than likely some sort of energy incentive. Federal tax credits are numerous and more localized government on the state, provincial, county, or municipal level. There’s also the rise of power purchase agreements to watch, as homeowners can enjoy solar panels for zero initial investment with these agreements wherein the solar company owns the panels while the purchaser pays them off monthly.

In today’s eco-friendly market, solar panels are an achievable reality for more and more homeowners. Beyond the lower energy bill, they provide numerous benefits like those listed. That’s not to mention their decreased carbon footprint, enabling you to help the environment from the comfort of your own home.