The adverse effects of climate change are becoming more and more evident with each passing day. The growing concern for the environment has led to a renewed interest in sustainable living. In fact, people today are making a conscious effort to live more eco-friendly lives, and one significant way this has manifested is the growing popularity of solar energy.
Today, more homeowners are considering installing a solar power supply for their homes. Furthermore, a Pew Research Center survey highlights how 46% of American homeowners have seriously considered installing solar panels on their homes. This is welcome progress, as a shift to solar could go a long way when it comes to helping the environment.
Benefits of Switching to Solar Energy for California Residents
Now, it’s understandable if you’re still on the fence about investing in solar energy. However, there are certain benefits that can convince you otherwise, especially for residents of California. If you are still thinking hard about whether or not you should switch to solar energy, here are three different incentives to help you decide:
1. Financial Incentives
Did you know that there are several financial incentives available for homeowners in California by simply switching to solar? One of the most popular ones would have to be the Home Energy Renovation Opportunity (HERO). How HERO works is actually simple. Homeowners are allowed to finance the installation of their solar power supply for their homes via an increased property tax. This means that the state or local government fronts the costs for the installation, giving homeowners flexibility when it comes to financing their home renovation project.
Now, it’s a given that when you sell, buy, or renovate a property, that property is subjected to a reassessment. This reassessment could then lead to an increase in the property taxes that you have to pay. But one exception to this reassessment rule is the installation of a solar energy system. This ultimately means that you won’t have to worry about paying more in property taxes if you do make the switch!
2. Affordable Installation Costs
California also offers a Single-Family Affordable Solar Housing Program (SASH) to help low-income homeowners offset the initial costs of installing a solar energy system. This program is handled by the California Public Utilities Commission and gives homeowners an opportunity to receive $3/Watt to help them convert their homes to solar power.
3. Net Energy Metering
Another significant benefit to going solar is Net Energy Metering (NEM). To put it simply, NEM happens when your home stores excess energy generated by your residential solar panels back to the electricity grid. In exchange, you receive credits that can be used to offset energy costs when your solar panels are underproducing. Theoretically, if your panels are able to collect enough energy for a year, you can effectively waive your electricity bill. And while this isn’t likely to happen, NEM can help you save a lot of money on your electricity bill!
Conclusion
Living a more sustainable life is easier and more accessible than ever before. Given the number of incentives that come with switching to solar energy, California homeowners have this option readily available to them via the multitude of financing options. If you’re considering going solar, now is the perfect time to do so!
If you’re looking for affordable roofing and solar services in the San Francisco Bay Area, then Simmitri is right for you. You’ll be in good hands, as our team of experts delivers solar energy and roofing services for residential and commercial clients. Get in touch with us today to receive a free quote!
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