The Top 10 Benefits Of Solar Energy
There’s no denying it any longer, climate change is real and fossil fuels are one of the leading causes of the destruction of our planet. If we are going to combat climate change it all starts at home with the decisions we make about power. Luckily for all of us (and the planet), solar technology is rapidly improving in its efficiency and affordability. With the affordability of installation and tax breaks offered throughout the country, there has never been a better time for you to go solar in your home.
There are many reasons why you should go solar, but improving the environment and cutting energy costs are two reasons we can all rally behind. Most of us understand that solar is a great home efficiency upgrade and that by going solar we can reduce our carbon footprint while also improving our property value. But what other reasons are there?
Whether your motivations for going solar are economic, environmental, or personal, these 10 solar power benefits will give you plenty of reason to call up your local solar technician for a quote.
- Drastically reduce or even eliminate your electric bills
Whether you’re considering solar for your home or business, electric bills account for a large portion of your monthly expenses. By going solar you’ll be generating “free” power whenever the sun is shining and can drastically reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills altogether. A win for the planet and your rainy day fund!
- Earn a great return on your investment
Here’s the reality, solar panels aren’t an expense. Yes, you read that right. Installing solar panels is one of the best ways for you to invest in your home. Not only will it increase your property value, but the average American homeowners pay off their solar system in seven to eight years and sees an ROI of 20% or more.
- Protect against rising energy costs
No more frustration over the rising cost of your utility bill. By transferring your energy business away from the utility company and tapping into solar you will gain complete energy independence. This move will hedge utility prices which is good news when you consider the fact that electricity prices have risen by an average of 3% annually over the last decade. This will not only give you peace of mind by not having to worry about prices going up but will allow you to better forecast your expenses each month.
- Increase your property value
Multiple studies have found that homes equipped with solar energy systems have higher property values and sell more quickly than non-solar homes. Appraisers are increasingly taking solar installations into consideration as they value homes at the time of a sale, and as homebuyers become more educated about solar, demand for properties equipped with solar panel systems will continue to grow.
- Boost U.S. energy independence
The sun is a near-infinite source of energy and a key component of achieving energy independence in the United States. By increasing our capacity to generate electricity from the sun, we can also insulate our country from price fluctuations in global energy markets.
- Create jobs and help your local economy
According to The Solar Foundation, the solar industry adds jobs many times faster than the overall U.S. economy. This growth is expected to continue. Because solar-related jobs tend to be higher paying and cannot be outsourced, they are a significant contributor to the U.S. economy.
- Protect the environment
Solar is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Buildings are responsible for 38 percent of all carbon emissions in the U.S., and going solar can significantly decrease that number. A typical residential solar panel system will eliminate three to four tons of carbon emissions each year—the equivalent of planting over 100 trees annually.
- Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability
Sustainability and corporate social responsibilities are important components of an organization’s culture and values. They also produce bottom-line results. Increasingly, consumers and communities are recognizing and rewarding businesses that choose to operate responsibly. Businesses are finding that “green” credentials are a powerful driver of consumer purchasing decisions, creating goodwill and improving business results.
- Increase employee morale
Just like consumers, employees have a demonstrated appreciation for their employers’ commitment to operating responsibility. Employees share in the success and contributions of their organizations. Companies that care about their community and environment tend to have lower turnover rates, more engaged employees, and higher levels of morale.
- Stay competitive
Companies quickly are realizing the social and economic benefits of adopting solar power. As early adopters pull ahead of the competition, many companies are exploring solar power as a way to keep up.
Still unsure about going solar? Then check out this blog about Why You Should Go Solar in Your New Home.
With over 100 years of combined experience, KDA Homes is committed to being pioneers in smarter home design leading the way for sustainability in residential development and green building. The company approaches every project with the end goal in mind – building a home for a new community to grow. KDA is a proud member of the Ashland community.
