The use of renewable energy sources is booming—which gives us hope for a clean energy future with reduced carbon footprints for people across the globe. But with so many alternative and renewable energy sources now available to homeowners in California, which is your best option?
While all alternative sources yield benefits, solar energy is proven to be the best and safest way to fight climate change while ultimately saving money. In honor of Earth Month, we want to share some of the reasons why solar energy is the most ideal alternative energy source for California residents.
Environmental Benefits
Solar energy is one of the cleanest, greenest choices you can make for powering your home while reducing your carbon footprint. Because of their high efficiency, solar panels pay back the “energy debt” created in their production within a couple years.. Solar energy production requires little to no maintenance, and therefore, generates almost no waste. Solar creates zero noise pollution, an essential benefit for those living in urban areas. Solar panels are also very long-lasting—manufacturer warranties are 25 years or longer—and are designed to withstand the impact of extreme weather conditions and other environmental stressors. By making use of the near-limitless power of our primary life-giving resource—the Sun—solar panels provide an ideal way to combat climate change and protect our environment.
Increased Home Values
Research shows that homeowners will pay a premium for a solar home. Solar panels significantly improve resale values, especially those with Pearl Certification, which includes documentation that realtors and appraisers are obligated to use when considering home value. A study conducted by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory showed that, on average, solar installation increased the value of a home by approximately $15,000. The same can’t be said definitively for any other home energy project—sorry windmills, nobody really wants you in their backyard.
Financial Savings & Quick Payoff
Clean solar energy significantly reduces costs by lowering your utility bills. The Sun provides enough energy to power the entire world—and we will never run out of it, so costs won’t increase over time. While the initial investment for installation is significant, this cost is offset by tax incentives and immediate savings. Since solar energy is free and independent of an outside supply, its maintenance and energy production costs are practically zero. Solar panel installation means no more egregious utility bills and unpredictable rate increases.
Improved Grid Security & Energy Independence
Solar panels on your roof serve as a small power plant that can provide enough energy for your entire home while improving grid security. This is extremely beneficial during common situations like blackouts and voltage dips. An unlimited supply makes solar energy more resilient in the face of market fluctuations – namely, conflicts involving countries whose main source of income is fossil fuel exports. . You’re making your own clean electricity every day rather than piping it in from a power plant in a distant location and relying on unsustainable, potentially unethically-sourced energy. This also helps ease grid strain and reduces transmission costs.
Extended Roof Life & A Cooler Home
Solar panels protect your roof from the elements, such as the sun itself, wind, hail and debris. This extends the lifespan of your roof and shields against other costly damage to your home. Solar panels also absorb heat better than a naked roof, which keeps the temperature of your house cooler and more comfortable.
Versatile Installation
Solar panels can be installed almost anywhere, taking advantage of spaces with no specific use. What else are you doing up on your roof—elaborate Christmas decorations? This aspect, coupled with the modularity and flexibility of the system, facilitates the installation of small-scale solar projects with the added advantage that the installation can be expanded, depending on household needs, at any given time down the road.
Economic Impact
Another benefit of solar energy is the direct impact it has on the economy. Solar panel installation promotes the creation of jobs, which positively impacts the local economy. Most residential solar installers live where they work – right down the street! You’re “keeping it local” in so many ways when you go solar.
The Takeaway
Solar power is an unlimited energy resource that can power your entire home, effectively and efficiently. It’s the cornerstone of a cleaner, more sustainable future. Using solar energy will help improve the future of our planet and your household’s bottom line.
If you’re ready to get started selling solar, become an Authorized Dealer today!