As many strive to embrace cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, the decision to invest in solar has become increasingly popular among homeowners. Let's dive into a few things to consider when deciding if going solar is right for you.
1. Crunch the Numbers
Before taking the solar leap, it's crucial to evaluate the financial aspects. Research the upfront costs, potential savings, and return on investment associated with solar installations. Financial perks, such as the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), can help offset the initial expenses, making solar a more attractive option.
EnergySage provides a free Solar Calculator tool (no sign up necessary) to help you get started.
Understanding your energy needs and consumption patterns is essential to sizing your solar system correctly. Examine your historical energy bills to determine your average monthly and annual usage (kWh). This analysis will provide insights into the size of the solar system required to meet your household's energy demands effectively. Be sure to consider any changes in energy consumption that may occur in the future, such as the addition of electric vehicles, new appliances or electrifying your heating and cooling systems.
3. Evaluate Your Solar Potential
All homes are different so determining the solar potential and site suitability of your property is crucial for optimal solar energy generation. Assess factors like roof orientation, roof age, shading from nearby trees or buildings, and available space for solar panels. South-facing roofs with minimal shading typically yield the best results.
4. Long-Term Considerations
Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance, but it's important to understand the long-term considerations. Consider the lifespan of the system, warranty coverage, and the potential need for equipment upgrades, such as inverters, over time. Additionally, consider how long you intend to live in your home because it may take 8+ years to see a return on your investment.
The City of Worcester has partnered with EnergySage as part of our Smart Energy Advice program to provide you with support and guidance as you begin to explore your solar options. This service is completely free and 100% online.
Interested in getting quotes from pre-vetted, reputable solar installers servicing Worcester? Get started here. There are no calls unless you want them.
If you don’t think rooftop solar is for you, check out our blog post about Community Solar!