Known for its bright and sunny weather, Arizona is a prime location to consider investing in a solar power system, an option that is becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek out ways to reduce their carbon footprint and save on ever-expanding electricity bills. Before making a decision, however, it’s super important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this potential alternative:
Home Solar System Advantages
Reduced Electricity Bills
The money-saving potential of solar power system installation shines through as one of its most significant advantages. After all, these systems generate energy from the sun: thus significantly reducing homeowner reliance on traditional electricity sources.
Increased Home Value
Homes boasting solar power systems—viewed as eco-friendly and cost-effective spaces—are becoming increasingly attractive to buyers, many of whom have eco-sustainability on the brain. The corresponding upside? A boost in home value and burgeoning buyer interest when it’s time to sell. (Do not expect that to cover the entire installation cost, though.)
Tax Incentives
Homeowners who install a solar power system are sometimes eligible for tax incentives, including federal and state tax credits, which can help offset upfront costs associated with system installation. The federal tax credit can be up to 30% https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-federal-tax-credit-solar-photovoltaics and the Arizona credit is 25% or $1,000, whichever is less. https://azdor.gov/news-center/income-tax-credit-residential-solar-devices
Environmental Benefits
As a cost-efficient and clean energy source, solar power systems can help reduce a homeowner’s carbon footprint and impact on the environment: a true win-win!
Home Solar System Disadvantages
High Initial Cost
The upfront investment required to install a solar power system is often significant, likes tens of thousands, putting a dent in homeowner wallets. On the bright side, however, tax incentives and reduced electricity bills over the long term can help offset these initial costs. You should figure the energy costs savings and how long it would take to recover the installation costs (it will be years).
Weather Dependency
Solar power systems rely on (yes) sunlight to generate electricity, meaning they are sometimes less effective on cloudy or rainy days, which generally not much of a problem in the desert areas of Arizona. Homeowners also can mitigate this by installing a battery backup system or using traditional electricity sources during low sunlight periods.
Maintenance Costs
Some homeowners may be surprised to learn that solar power systems require regular maintenance that includes routine cleaning and inspections. While these costs are typically on the low side, they are an additional expense.
Roof Compatibility
Yep, it’s true: Roof design can in fact affect solar power system installation as well as its effectiveness. More specifically, some roofs are just not compatible with solar panels or may require reinforcement to support their weight.
A solar power system offers Arizona homeowners a plethora of benefits, including reduced electricity bills, a boost in home value, tax incentives, and environmental upside. However, one must consider other important factors before making the decision to install one, such as the initial investment, dependency on sunny weather, maintenance costs, and roof compatibility.
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