Here are some of the pros and cons of solar vs. grid electricity.

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s no surprise that solar energy is especially popular in Colorado. However, for many homeowners, choosing solar panels over grid electricity is still a difficult decision to make.

Benefits of Going Solar

Financial Benefits

The cost of solar panels has been rapidly dropping for the last few years. Also, in many cases, you can pay for the installation over time. Plus, you’ll have no monthly electricity costs — helping you save $100-$200 a month — and you can sell your extra energy back to the grid.

Solar Power Incentives

A number of utility companies offer solar power incentives. For example, Xcell Energy pays rewards (on average, $1.75 per watt) based on the amount of kilowatt energy produced each month by the solar panel system. In addition, the Recharge Colorado Rebate offers $1.50 per watt (up to 3 kilowatts).

Tax Benefits

Going solar can also bring you tax benefits. For example, if your solar system adds about $25,000 to your home’s value, then that amount will be exempt when your home is assessed for property taxes. In addition, homeowners can deduct 30 percent of the cost of implementing a solar energy system from their personal federal income taxes.

Grid Electricity Costs and Incentives

Colorado’s average monthly electricity bill totals $81, a cost that ranks 48th highest in the nation. As electricity costs get higher, state governments are encouraging homeowners to use solar power. This means grid electricity users benefit from no incentives.

Environmental Benefits

Solar power generates clean, natural, sustainable electricity without creating water or air pollution, or greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, solar power facilities use less land than electrical facilities, and solar panels don’t need water to generate electricity. On the other hand, when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions, the electricity sector is the nation’s biggest culprit.

Solar Panel Installation

If you are receiving electricity from the grid but are interested in going solar, engage a full-service solar service provider to handle your solar panel installation.

Solar panels contain solar cells made of silicon semiconductor wafers. When sunlight hits these cells, electricity is generated and distributed across the panel. Each panel is first supported by mounts to hold it steady and elevate it, and then positioned at an optimum angle to catch the sun’s rays. Your installation professional can provide you with the best types of panels and mounts for your home or office.

Investing in solar energy will save not only the environment, but also the money in your wallet. Be sure to contact us for a free solar energy installation quote.