Are you looking for more ways to make your home eco-friendly? More of us are turning to sustainable practices at home to combat climate change. 48% of US consumers said they were prepared to change their habits to save the environment.
Solar power has become a popular method for homeowners to be more sustainable and save money. But how does solar power work? Is it worthwhile?
If you want to learn more about installing solar power in your home, then read on for our guide to building a solar-powered home.
What Is a Solar-Powered Home?
A totally solar-powered home is powered using a photovoltaic (PV) power system. This type of solar energy system comprises one or more solar panels that use energy from the sun to generate electricity. Light falls onto the solar panels and creates an electric current which is converted and used in the home.
You can partially power your home using solar energy or use it as your primary source of power. There are now more solar-powered products for the home, such as phone chargers and CCTV systems. You can even use solar energy to heat and cool your home.
Is A Solar-Powered Home Affordable?
Over the last two decades, the price of solar power has dropped by 90%. Although the initial cost of solar power can seem pricey, the savings you can achieve on your utility bills can be astounding.
In the 1950s, solar power was around $300 per watt. The price in most areas is now $7-$10 per watt. How much your solar energy system will cost is will vary depending on whether you install it yourself and how much energy you want to produce.
There are several government incentives available for homeowners looking at solar power installation. Homeowners can claim up to 30% of their project’s capital costs under the federal income tax credit for renewable energy. These tax credits are only available for a limited time, so make sure you take advantage of them while they are available.
If you can’t afford the up-front costs of installing a solar energy system, then you can consider renting your solar panels. The solar company will provide, install and maintain the panels for a monthly fee.
Solar Power Installation
Before installing your solar energy system, you need to decide how much power you would like to supply to your home. To get an estimation of how much energy you need to generate, take a look at your electricity bill. An average utility customer in the US will use about 877 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month.
The cheapest option is to install your solar energy system yourself. If you have no experience with solar panels, then the best solution is to find a reputable solar company that can install your panels for you.
Save Money With a Solar-Powered Home
Installing solar energy in your home will save the environment and provide a potential second income. Not only is solar power great for the planet, but you can earn money by selling excess energy back to the grid.
Did you find this article helpful? Read more on our blog for information on building a solar-powered home.
