Investing in solar energy reduces the dependency on fossil fuels and other nonrenewable resources while providing financial benefits to companies and homeowners. Green technologies, such as solar energy, don’t deplete energy reserves or produce emissions as they generate energy. Companies and homeowners typically see reduced costs in about six to eight years, depending on the system's size, how they finance it and their typical energy costs.

A solar energy system is typically set up through an array of solar panels. The system converts the photons of the sun, a renewable energy source, into usable energy that powers anything from commercial businesses to farms, homes, storage units and electric vehicles. 

Understand the Benefits of Solar Energy

With a solar energy system, companies and homeowners can reduce their utility bills significantly, sometimes down to zero. Once the initial costs are paid off, then there are often no monthly bills associated with the energy that the system generates. Solar panels in North Carolina, for example, can save the typical homeowner $1,800 per year. A company with a larger building structure could save much more. Tax credits are usually available, and some utility companies and local governments offer additional financial incentives.

If there are times when a company or household isn’t using all of its solar power, some systems can automatically sell the power back to utility companies. Solar power helps offset potential inflation since the costs will not rise if utility rates go up. Because there are no moving parts, solar power systems typically don’t require frequent repairs, and systems are designed to last 30 years or more.

Solar power systems can be particularly cost-effective in remote areas, such as park facilities and rural cabins, where extending power lines can be difficult and diesel can be costly. Having a system installed can also add to resale value, according to a study by the Solar Energies Industries Association.

Choose the Right Installer

When exploring prospective companies, there are several factors to consider. It’s important to find a company with deep experience in the market with licensed designers, engineers, and installers. A crucial certification to look for is the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.

An installer should know about navigating the design, permit, and inspection process, which can save costs and streamline the schedule. Make sure to ask about liability insurance, and whether parts of the process will be outsourced and performed by third parties. Another question to ask is how the firm will draw up the layout and electrical designs.

A good installer will also help find the optimum location for installation that’s best for your latitude as well as roof type and location. South, southwest, and southeast-facing roofs with no shade are often the preferred locations, although eastern and western roofs are also options.

It’s also important to find a company that can tailor a system to meet your specific needs. Ask whether the installer works with only specific brands and components or with a variety of providers, which could offer you a wider choice of solutions. Some systems provide diagnostics so that you can monitor their efficiency and spot problems. A system should also be designed so it’s flexible enough to grow if needed, such as by adding additional solar panels to an array.

Get Detailed Info

It’s important to get detailed info that covers all steps in the process, including any soft costs such as assisting with permitting and inspection. You should also ask your prospective installation company about how the panels need to be cleaned. 

An installer can also help you sort through purchasing options. Some buyers opt to purchase a system upfront while others seek solar loans. Ask your installer about how these options affect rebates, warranties and maintenance. An experienced installer can also help you learn about incentive options, which vary based on the state, county, and city or town.

In addition to helping with environmental conservation, a solar energy system can provide significant savings, especially over time. Experienced installers can help assess your current energy situation, explore options that are suited to your needs and help you explore the best strategies.