Considering a solar panel installation in Las Vegas? Here is what you need to know to estimate the cost of solar for your home or office.
Tourists think they know all the great things about Las Vegas, but one of the best perks of living here may not be the first one people mention. The best thing about being a Las Vegan is enjoying our clear, bright skies. Sure, we have a few hot summer months, but you can’t beat our comfortable, sunny weather the rest of the year. And one of the best ways to make the most of that sunshine, is to utilize solar energy to power your home and office. Many locals have made the switch and now enjoy lower energy costs. So if you are considering harnessing the energy of the sun to help offset air conditioning costs in the summer and lights in the winter, you’ll want to know all about solar panel installation.
Here is what you need to know to estimate the cost of solar for your home or office.
The initial investment in solar paneling on a home or office will depend on a few factors. You’ll have to consider the size of your property as well as the amount of energy you’d like to generate. Most people want to take advantage of solar energy and install the maximum amount of solar cells on their home. Depending on the size of your home, the price for solar cells can range from $4,000 to $70,000. That may seem like a wide range, but it really depends on the size of your home. If you own a small, offgrid cabin, you can expect to pay closer to the low end of this range. If your home is more expansive, 4,000 sq. feet or more, you may need to purchase a more robust solar package.
If you are interested in the amount of energy generated by your solar panels, then you should focus on sizing by energy output. Most homes in Nevada use about 5-8kWh of energy daily. After receiving a Federal tax credit, the cost for installing a solar energy system on an average home in Nevada would be $12,000 to $16,000. Again, this is an average cost, your home may require more or less energy. The best way to estimate prices is by contacting your local solar energy company.
Just like any other major appliance in your home, your solar panels will have to be maintained and serviced from time to time. This ensures that your panels continue to collect solar energy effectively over the years. Routine maintenance is all a part of the long term investment in your home.
Maintenance of solar panels is actually straightforward. The solar cells need to be clean and clear from debris and dirt. This is why rainy days can actually be really good for solar panels. The rain provides occasional rinsing of the surface. If you find that your solar panels are too dirty, they may not be working to their full efficiency. They should be cleaned once or twice a year and this is typically done by the homeowner. However, a solar technician would also be able to assist with cleaning. Your solar wiring will also have to be checked at least once a year for corrosion. If your system has a battery, it will likewise need to be checked yearly. You may be able to check these components yourself, but if you are uncomfortable doing so you can contact your solar installer.
The amount of money you can save by installing solar panels on your home or office in and around Las Vegas varies based on the capabilities of your solar system, your overall energy usage, and even which power company you use.
In general, when your solar panels are maintained and working effectively, you should notice the effect on your power bill almost immediately. However, you’ll also likely notice new charges you’re not accustomed to seeing. This is because many local utility providers charge solar users fees for things like grid upkeep and peak usage. In order to fully understand what your fees are being used for, you’ll need to contact your electricity provider and discuss the charges with them. Also, keep in mind that often these fees can be negotiated. Even with the solar fees, many people who have chosen solar report that they see their energy charges remaining constant, rather than rising along with their neighbors’.
Even though you may have to discuss added fees related to your solar switch with your electric provider, rest assured that going solar will save you money in the long run. This is why so many Las Vegans have decided to make the investment in solar panels for their homes. When you live in a location with this much free, renewable energy, it just makes sense to utilize it!
Plus, there are a few instances that will put money directly in your pocket, just for switching to solar.
One of the most exciting cash incentives you’ll be eligible for when you choose to go solar, is the tax rebates. These rebates will greatly lower the cost of installation for your solar power system. The Solar Investment Tax Credit, (ITC) which was passed in 2006, is a 26% Federal tax credit for those that choose solar panels. There are also rebates for homeowners who choose to add a battery to their system. These tax incentives make owning your own solar panels an achievable goal for many homeowners. With rising utility costs, now is the best time to begin harnessing free, renewable energy.
Sometimes, installing solar panels can lead to problems. All of them can be mitigated if you are prepared to address them quickly. Here are a few common problems homeowners have experienced, as well as ways to fix them.
All of these issues can be avoided by using a reputable, licensed solar energy installer and provider that you trust. A trained solar technician can alert you to issues with your roof well before installation even occurs. When you use highly trained solar professionals, you’ll never need to worry about dangerous electrical work that isn’t up to code. As long as the company you work with has experience placing solar panels in Nevada, you can trust that they areinstalled at the optimal angle and position for sun exposure.
If you live or work in Las Vegas and want to start harnessing the power of the Las Vegas sunshine, it’s a no brainer to switch to solar! With tax credits and lower electric bills, you’ll reap the financial benefits while also helping the environment. Be sure to protect your investment by trusting the experts to install and maintain your solar panel system. Bell Solar and Electrical Systems are your hometown solar installation experts. No one knows solar panel and electrical installation in Las Vegas and Henderson better than we do!
If you are ready to make the switch to solar but aren’t sure what to do next, contact Bell Solar and Electrical Systems today! We would love to help you take control of your energy budget and switch to solar.
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