There’s been a solar energy surge across Long Island in recent years as more homeowners than ever are installing photovoltaic (PV) solar panels atop their roofs. However, while solar energy is environmentally friendly and more affordable that it was even a few years ago, homeowners who are on the fence about it might still wonder how solar power can save them money on their heating and cooling bills.
Solar Saves Money on Heating and Cooling Systems
Besides saving energy and reducing carbon footprints, homeowners can rest assured that PV solar panels can significantly reduce their utility costs all year round.
In fact, a recent study by the NC Clean Energy Technology Center, which examined solar energy in 50 of the nation’s largest cities, found that homeowners who invested in a 5 kilowatt (kW) PV solar system saved on average of $44 to $187 per month the first year it was installed.
Experts have also found that an average U.S. homeowner saves more than $1,000 on electricity per year and that an average solar panel system saves homeowners approximately $20,000 over the course of 20 years.
There are also many state and federal rebates and tax incentives available to homeowners who decide to install solar panels on their homes. For instance, according to energy.gov, there’s a residential renewable energy tax credit that allows homeowners to “claim a credit of 30 percent of qualified expenditures for a system that serves a dwelling unit located in the United States that is owned and used as a residence by the taxpayer.”
Experts further agree that going solar also increases the value of your home over the long term, and is an added benefit should you decide to sell your home in the future.
What Going Solar Means for Heating and Cooling Clients
The free, green and plentiful power of the sun that’s harnessed by PV solar panels is easily converted into electric energy – the same electric energy that powers your heating and cooling systems.
Solar energy, therefore, can reduce the electric consumption of your oil or gas heating system and your ductless air conditioning or central air conditioning. This translates into the cash savings that the aforementioned studies have found.
For a better idea of how much you can save on a solar energy system, experts suggest asking your solar system provider how much power your new system will generate annually and compare that number to your current electricity bill.
An energy audit can help heating and cooling customers save money and the environment at the same time. The audit allows homeowners to determine how much energy is consumed and what measures can be taken to make the home more energy efficient. When an audit is combined with energy-saving tips – such as installing a Lennox Smart Thermostat or another type of smart, programmable thermostat and switching from traditional oil to Bioheat® – the cost savings can be significant.
Contact Tragar Oil today to learn more, and don’t forget to ask about our free, no-obligation quote!
