Embarking on the journey towards residential solar requires a commitment to sustainability and a strategic approach to maximizing your investment. Below, we dive into the intricacies of harnessing solar power for your home. From state incentives and tax breaks to securing suitable financing options and finding a trusted solar installer, there are crucial logistics to consider when transitioning to solar energy.

Understanding State Incentives, Tax Breaks, and Net Metering

Transitioning to solar energy gives homeowners the opportunity to benefit from state and federal policy incentives that maximize savings. 

For example, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which passed in 2022, is positioned to save homeowners billions of dollars. 

The IRA includes provisions that incentivize the adoption of sustainable home solutions, leading to savings on home energy bills. Over the next decade, more than 120 million American households stand to benefit from the suite of residential clean energy tax credits and rebates included in the IRA. Learn more about the Inflation Reduction Act here. 

For homeowners that install solar, net metering is a state-level policy that can also reduce energy bills while supporting clean energy. Here's how it works: 

• Solar panels often generate more electricity than a home consumes. With net metering, any surplus electricity is sent back to the power grid. 

• When a home needs electricity from the grid, the meter records usage as usual. However, when solar panels produce more electricity than is needed, the meter effectively runs backward, and homeowners earn credits for the excess energy. These credits can then be applied to future electricity bills, resulting in potential savings. 

• Net metering credit amounts vary by state, offering different levels of estimated savings. Net metering is not provided in every state. Learn more about the different types of net metering policies here. 

By leveraging federal and state policies, homeowners can tap into opportunities for savings. Consult with a tax or energy professional to get the full scope of the benefits and incentives available in your area.

Financing Options for Solar Installation

There are various financing options available to help you install residential solar panels without dipping into your savings or resorting to high-interest credit cards. From solar loans to leases and power purchase agreements, flexible financing solutions make solar energy accessible to homeowners.

• Solar loans provide homeowners options to purchase their equipment while making monthly payments to their chosen loan provider.  

• Leases and power purchase agreements are agreements between a third-party and the homeowner, where the third-party retains ownership of the solar panels.  

The decision to transition to solar energy is an important one. By understanding the nuances of state incentives, tax breaks, and net metering, coupled with strategic financing choices and partnering with a reputable solar company, homeowners can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enjoy potential financial benefits. 

Not sure if rooftop solar is the right option for you? Learn more about solar below and make the most informed decision: 

• 4 Factors to Consider Before Going Solar 

• Understanding the Benefits of Residential Solar

• Embrace Solar Power: 5 Compelling Reasons to Make the Switch

Have you already made the decision to go solar? Contact your local solar installer to ask if they offer flexible financing options through GoodLeap.