8 Best Solar Companies in Auburn, AL (Mar 2023 Review)

The Cost and Benefits of Solar in Auburn

Solar panels run off a free energy source — the sun — but to take advantage of this you will first need to pay to set up your system. There are a few factors you should consider when trying to determine the overall cost and how much you can save, such as:

• How much power your household needs: If your family regularly uses a lot of energy, you'll see more savings from installing solar panels.
• The type of solar panels you can afford: This hinges on your income and budget.
• Incentives: Along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which lets you deduct 30% of your total installation cost, your state or local government may offer additional tax exemptions, credits or rebates that can help you save even more. Not including incentives, you can save an average of $21,000 over the first 20 years with your system, too.
• Average daily sunlight: Since Auburn gets lots of sunlight, your solar panel system will most likely be able to produce enough energy to power your whole home, which impacts how much you can save on your energy bills.

Though a solar panel system costs a sizable chunk of money upfront, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long term. The question of how much, though, depends on several factors, including the angle of your roof and your energy consumption.

Solar Incentives in Auburn

In an effort to increase the number of homes and businesses that use solar power, incentives are offered by the government — and even some utility companies — to help make switching to solar power more affordable and accessible. Local solar incentive programs depend on the location and, sometimes, utility company. A lot of states offer rebates for solar power, in addition to the federal solar tax credit. In our article on solar incentives, you can read about the incentives you qualify for in Auburn.

Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Auburn

Installing solar panels is a good way to do your part for a more sustainable future. But you may be curious — how much exactly can you help the environment by making the switch to solar? Everyone can help protect the environment by switching to solar energy, but homes that consume more energy will have an even bigger impact. Once you go solar, your carbon emissions can be lowered by about 90 pounds every year. If you care about the environment, you'll likely get that there are many good things about adopting solar power other than just saving money on electricity. You can also help preserve the environment, which some would argue is invaluable.