Power Cost Archives - Green House Solar

In an age where renewable energy solutions are not just a choice but a necessity, the appeal of solar power has never been stronger. With its promise of reduced electricity bills, a lighter carbon footprint, and energy independence, transitioning to solar energy seems like a no-brainer. Yet, a surprising number of homeowners are still hesitant to embrace this clean, sustainable power source.

At Green House Solar, we understand the concerns that often cloud the decision to go solar. That’s why our team of solar panel experts in NJ are going to debunk the most common misconceptions that keep people from harnessing the sun’s abundant energy and saving money on electric bills. In this article, we’ll shed light on the top four reasons why people don’t go solar (pun intended) – providing the peace of mind you need to make a more informed choice.

#1. Solar Panels are Too Expensive!

This is no longer the case! Did you know that the Federal Investment Tax Credit is 30% for solar panel installations starting in 2022 and has been extended through 2032. That is major installation cost savings you don’t want to miss out on. Plus, you may be eligible for other incentives like the NJ Solar Sales Tax Exemption which involves decreased costs for equipment and the NJ Property Tax Exemption that ensures homeowners are not paying increased taxes for installing solar panels that enhance their property value.

Not to mention that zero dollars down solar is an option for many homeowners. Let your electrical bill savings pay for your solar! If you’d like to know more about the solar incentives available and which ones you qualify for, give us a call – we’d be happy to help.

#2. Solar Panels Look Ugly!

The look of solar panels have really come a long way over the years. They aren’t as bulky and have a sleeker look overall. At Green House Solar, we install SUNPOWER® panels, which just happen to be industry leading in durability, efficiency and aesthetics. And if you’re still not sold on having panels all over your roof, we can discuss other options like ground mounts. Believe it or not, some homeowners actually benefit more when their solar panels are placed elsewhere on the property.

#3. Solar Systems Require Maintenance

Solar systems by SUNPOWER® are built to last and require minimal maintenance over their 25 year lifetime warranty. In the event that something does go wrong, your system components fall under the warranty that would cover replacement and repair costs. The best part about leasing a solar panel system is that repairs and routine maintenance are the leasing company’s responsibility, not yours. In layman’s terms, if you have a problem – just give Green House Solar a call and we’ll send over one of our solar technicians as soon as possible.

#4. Solar Salesman can be Obnoxious

There are some big box solar salesmen out there that are really pushy, which give the rest of us a bad rap. At Green House Solar, we will never force you into something you’re not comfortable with and it’s an honest conversation. We are passionate about solar energy and have no problem taking the time to explain all aspects of installation and maintenance thoroughly. If all your roofs face north and are covered by trees, we’ll be honest about solar not being a good idea for you. From safety concerns to overall energy costs, our team will guide you from steps A to Z. The last thing we want is for you to be disappointed, confused or blindsided by anything that comes along with your home solar system.

If you’d like to talk more about anything that has to do with home solar, please don’t hesitate to call us today! You could also learn more about our solar panel installation services by visiting our website at: https://greenhouse.solar

At a high level, installing a home solar panel system is really establishing a power plant on your roof. So, it’s only natural to ask, is it safe? We understand that when it comes to your home and your loved ones living inside, safety is the number one priority – as it should be! That being said, the solar energy experts at Green House Solar are here to put your worries to rest. Our team has answered some frequently asked solar safety questions. Let’s take a closer look:

Is solar safe for my home?

There are a few aspects to Solar energy safety when looking at Residential Solar which typically involves panels installed on the roof. One aspect is the physical safety of the installation, the weight of them on your roof. Green House Solar’s team carefully inspects the condition of your roof, the age of your shingles, the sub-roof plywood and many other elements. Measurements are taken and calculations made to ensure that the roof structure is sufficient to support the weight of the solar system, including snow loads and anticipated wind shears and we will make or recommend appropriate repairs if necessary, prior to an installation. We will never place a solar array on a roof that can’t confidently support the weight for the lifetime of the panels. And with decades of solar experience, we don’t take shortcuts with materials or mounting options because they are faster/cheaper.

Are some solar systems safer for my home than others?

Another safety concern is the electrical aspects of solar safety. After all, the whole point of this is to have the panels generate and distribute voltages and currents to your home and possibly the grid, and potentially charge your backup battery system. All of this must be handled correctly and carefully to ensure maximum safety.

At Green House Solar, we prefer systems utilizing micro-inverters for our residential customers. Micro-inverters convert the electricity generated from DC to AC at the solar panel. This means that the electricity on the roof is lower voltage (and safer) with micro-inverters as opposed to string inverters. Micro-inverters also have other advantages that maximize production when partial shading is a concern.

One other thing to consider is the electrical knowledge base of the company designing and installing your solar system. The owner of Green House Solar is a licensed electrical contractor. Our knowledge of code and general electrical work gives us a leg up on many installers who need to stick to one way of doing things.

What about solar back-up batteries? Which battery is safest for my home?

There are two main chemistry types of home energy storage batteries currently on the market – Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). Here at Green House Solar, we recommend and install LFP batteries exclusively because of their safer chemistry – they will not combust when punctured.

What kinds of permits and approvals are required before my system can be installed?

At the local municipal level, permit applications are submitted for structural and electrical approval, including fire official approval. State and utility submissions are also required. As is the case with many home improvement projects, following installation and commissioning, inspectors will review the work to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.

What are some of the regulations that ensure my solar system is safe?

There are many regulations in place to ensure that the design of your residential solar system is safe. These have evolved over time so that solar systems installed today are safer than ever. Green House Solar follows all requirements and as mentioned before, we are licensed electricians. Regulations include fire codes which specify the size and location of pathways for firefighters should they need access. In addition, there are specific requirements for disconnects and shutoff capabilities that will stop electricity production immediately should the need arise. Stamped electrical and structural engineering designs are generally required for residential systems and are part of the permit application process.

Safe and Affordable Home Solar Panels in New Jersey

By choosing solar panels installed by licensed electricians, you not only enjoy the economic benefits of solar energy, but also do your part to create a cleaner and greener future. At Green House Solar, we can address all your safety concerns, help you navigate the process of installing solar panels, and take advantage of all the tax incentives available. From design to installation, our team will be there every step along the way to ensure a safe and reliable solar energy system for your home.

To learn more about the safety of solar panels, visit our website at: https://greenhouse.solar or book a free consult with us.

The government is under increasing pressure to combat the effects of climate change, while making solar systems more affordable. One major way they’re doing this is through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). You may have heard about REAP grants, but what are they, who is eligible, and how does one apply for the grant? Our solar energy company in NJ has compiled a guide of what you need to know.

REAP Grants (Overview)

REAP grants provide financial assistance to small rural businesses and agriculture producers to buy, install, or build renewable energy systems, or to make efficiency improvements on existing renewable energy systems. These grants cover aspects including:

Geothermal for electric generation
Small and large wind generation
Small and large solar generation
High-efficiency HVAC systems
Lighting
Insulation
Cooling and refrigeration units
Switching from diesel to electric

Small rural business owners are under unique financial pressures and often don’t have the extra funds to install or upgrade renewable energy systems. REAP grants can provide much-needed assistance and you can check the official website to learn more about eligibility requirements.

REAP Grants for Farms

Farmers across the country can benefit greatly from REAP grants. Whether it’s upgrading the existing infrastructure or switching over to solar power, farmers can utilize more energy-efficient equipment and help reduce the massive costs that come with operating a farm. If you’re unsure about how solar panels or other energy-efficient equipment would work on your farm, our team is happy to discuss your options.

REAP Grants for “Rural” Businesses

Rural business owners can also benefit from REAP grants. Think about changes you’d like to make like installing new windows and doors to prevent heating and cooling loss, upgrading your existing refrigeration units or building a customized solar system. If you’re a rural business owner and you qualify for a REAP grant, you can receive loan guarantees on loans up to 75% of total eligible project costs, grants for up to 50% of total eligible project costs, or you can combine both grant and loan guarantee funding for up to 75% of total eligible project costs.

Solar systems have become much more affordable over the years and the government has created various programs to incentivize business owners to embrace renewable energy. REAP grants can help offset what might otherwise be prohibitive installation costs, and the grants also allow you to upgrade your existing infrastructure to save money on your monthly energy costs. As a farmer or a rural business owner, you’re undoubtedly under pressure to keep costs low while increasing your production and your sales, and renewable energy can help you do exactly that.

For more information about REAP grants including how to find out if you qualify for one, or if you have any questions about NJ solar panel installation, please contact our team at Green House Solar today or visit us at: https://greenhouse.solar

Solar Power vs Fossil Fuels_ A Comparison

When it comes to solar power vs. fossil fuels, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each energy source. We’ve largely been using fossil fuels because they’re convenient. However, with increasing warnings from experts about climate change and a desire to do our part to help the environment, solar power is slowly but surely gaining more traction. Let’s take a closer look at the major factors to consider when comparing solar power to fossil fuels.

Availability differs between solar power and fossil fuels

Solar power: Because it’s derived directly from the sun, solar power is considered a renewable source of energy. It’s free and it’s not a finite resource because as long as the sun continues to rise every day, we are able to create solar power.
Fossil fuels: Conversely, fossil fuels are a non-renewable energy source. There is not an endless supply of fossil fuels here on earth, and once the supply runs out it will take millions of years to replenish.

Cost comparison between fossil fuels and solar power

Solar power: It goes without saying that sunlight is free, and the largest costs associated with solar power are the manufacturing and installation costs for solar panels. Fortunately, home solar systems have become much more affordable over the years, and there are federal tax rebates you can claim to help offset your installation costs.
Fossil fuels: There are costs associated with every step of fossil fuels, from mining, transporting, supplying, and using fossil fuels. As resources run out, these costs are set to increase. If you have gas in your home, your monthly gas bill reflects only part of the cost.

Difference in carbon emissions between solar power and fossil fuels

Solar power: Solar power doesn’t produce any carbon dioxide, nor does it emit any other harmful gases that are bad for the environment.
Fossil fuels: When fossil fuels are burned, it emits carbon dioxide – which becomes trapped in the atmosphere and leads to heat retention. With climate change and rising temperatures around the world being serious threats to our livelihood, it makes sense to avoid energy sources that produce carbon emissions.

The Future of Energy Usage

Solar power: From an environmental perspective, solar power is the better option for the future. The sun is a completely free source of energy that will never run out, and solar power can be used to run everything from small homes to large warehouses. And as far as vehicles go, solar power is already being used to power charging stations for electric vehicles.
Fossil fuels: Moving away from fossil fuels on a large scale will require collective action from our governments. The recent tax incentives and federal rebates are a good start to encourage homeowners and business owners to make the switch to solar power.

For more information about solar power installation in New Jersey, please contact our team at Green House Solar today and visit our website at: https://greenhouse.solar

How the IRA Helps Property Owners Lower Energy Bills

The United States Congress recently passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which among several other things, aims to promote clean and renewable sources of energy. This is great news for homeowners who have been thinking about installing home solar systems, but perhaps needed a little push to do so. And by “push” we mean attractive incentives that will help you save up to 30% on solar installation costs. Let’s take a look at what’s in the IRA and the benefits you can access by installing residential solar panels in 2022.

Inflation Reduction Act

The Inflation Reduction Act was passed in August 2022, and it’s touted as being a game-changer for both the solar industry and solar manufacturing in the United States. Some of its key provisions include changes to tax laws that will impact solar manufacturing, and incentives to combat climate change.

Investment Tax Credit

The Investment Tax Credit has been increased from 26% to 30%, meaning if you install a home solar system you can claim back 30% of your installation costs. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial solar systems, and it will be in effect until the end of 2032.

Additionally, battery-based solar energy storage systems also qualify for the ITC on their own – you don’t need to have purchased one as part of a new solar installation to apply for the tax credit.

Clean Electricity Production Credit

The solar power industry is now eligible for the Clean Electricity Production Credit. All solar power projects that meet wage requirements will receive a tax credit of 2.5 cents / kWh for the first 10 years of the project’s duration. This credit will be increased according to inflation year-on-year.

Domestically Produced Hardware

To encourage an increase in US-based solar manufacturing, solar manufacturers will receive various tax credits for producing the components of a solar system, including solar panels, inverters, and racking components.

Community Solar Projects

Solar panels that direct their energy into community solar projects for low-income people will receive an additional 10% tax credit, meaning the total tax credit could potentially be around 60!

If you’d like to know more about how installing solar panels can help you lower your energy bills, or if you have any other questions about solar panel installation in NJ, please contact our team at Green House Solar today or visit: https://greenhouse.solar/

The cost of converting to solar power can seem steep, but don’t let that deter you from investing in completely clean and renewable energy for your home. Solar power installation costs will differ depending upon the type of property you have, and the number of panels required, and if you need assistance covering the up-front costs, you have several options.

Solar Lease – Introduced in the early 2000s, solar leasing has become hugely popular with homeowners and business owners across the country. It works the same way as leasing a car: the solar provider owns the equipment, pays for it, and is the legal owner. The solar provider also pays for installation, maintenance, and repairs, while you pay them an agreed fixed monthly amount, like paying a monthly energy bill. The one exception, of course, is that solar leases are typically much cheaper on a monthly basis than traditional energy from a utility company!
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) – Similar to a solar lease, a PPA comes with one notable difference: rather than paying a fixed monthly fee to the solar provider, you pay a certain amount for every kWh your system produces. This amount is pre-determined between you and your solar provider.
Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) – An EEM works by crediting your home’s energy efficiency in the mortgage itself, which can be used to finance solar panels.
Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program – Some states, including New Jersey, allow homeowners to borrow money from either their city, county, or state, and then pay it back via a higher property tax rate over a certain amount of time, usually 15 to 20 years. You can find out more about New Jersey’s PACE Program here.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending – A somewhat new financing system, P2P works by matching borrowers and lenders using crowdsourcing platforms. One advantage of the P2P system is that you, as the borrower, can avoid high transaction fees and other fees banks sometimes charge.

Get more information about power costs

As you can see, there are a handful of financing options when it comes to installing a home solar system. The upfront installation costs may seem high, however, you’ll quickly be enjoying lower monthly energy costs and reducing your environmental footprint. At Greenhouse Solar, we are experts in both residential and commercial solar panel installation, and we would be happy to answer any questions you have, so please contact our team today. Discover why we’re the go-to company in Morris County, NJ, for all your home solar needs. We look forward to hearing from you.

The solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is part of a federal policy that incentivizes home and business owners to install solar energy systems, and it makes solar panels more affordable for people across the country. To encourage more property owners – both commercial and residential – to invest in clean energy for their properties, the ITC allows for a 26% tax credit, meaning you can deduct 26% of the total installation cost of your solar energy systems and save thousands of dollars by going solar. Not to mention the money you’ll also save on your monthly energy bills! Also, there is no cap on its value, so if you’re a commercial property owner and want to convert all your current energy systems to solar, you can save a substantial amount of money while reducing your environmental footprint and enjoying the many benefits of solar energy.

To qualify for the ITC, the only requirement is that you own your solar energy system. When it comes time to file your federal tax return for the year, let your accountant know that you’ve converted to a solar energy system and they will help you claim the ITC. If you file your own taxes, there are several helpful online guides that can assist you.

We’ve seen several pieces of legislation at the state and national levels over the past few years that incentivize property owners who convert to solar energy systems. As we all take steps to reduce our carbon footprint and make environmentally friendly choices, investing in a solar energy system is an excellent choice, and for homeowners and business owners who qualify for the ITC, it’s an affordable option.

Learn more about home solar panels

If you’ve been considering installing a solar energy system, there’s still time to become eligible for the 26% tax credit, as it applies to all construction started in the year 2020. We have several sunny months ahead of us, and now is an excellent time to discover how efficient solar energy is in powering your home while reducing your monthly energy costs.

At Greenhouse Solar, we are proud to supply top-of-the-line solar panels for both residential and commercial buildings. For more information about solar installation in Morris County, NJ, or to speak to a member of our team, please contact us today. Discover why so many people trust us for all of their home solar needs. We look forward to hearing from you.

Earth Month is a great time to rethink your lifestyle and find ways to bring more earth-friendly practices into your home and daily life. Of course, going green isn’t just about the planet – it’s about your wallet too! Here are five tips for saving not only money but also the planet, from one of the leading solar companies in Morris County, NJ.

1. Replace Inefficient Tech and Appliances

Brands have seen that customers want to save money and do more for the planet. So, the tech we use in our daily lives has become impressively energy and water-efficient. If your appliances are nearing the end of their lifecycle, now’s the time to invest in earth-friendly tech. Look for dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers with high Energy Star ratings, replace your old incandescent bulbs with LED lights, install a smart thermostat, and swap out your electric stove for a natural gas one.

2. Insulate and Seal Your Home

The better insulated and sealed your home is, the less heating and cooling it requires, which means huge savings in both summer and winter. There are great, high-performance eco-friendly insulation choices too, including wool, recycled cotton/denim, Icynene, ThermaCork, and cellulose. Remember to seal and weather-proof external doors and windows too, and make sure your roofing is in good repair.

3. Leave the Car at Home

We all love our cars and few of us can do without them. But, it’s important to leave them at home when we can. Your average car emits a massive 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year! So, it really pays to use public transport, walk or cycle to your destination – even if it’s just a few times a week. It’s also great for your health and you save on gas and maintenance!

4. Waste Less

In the USA alone, around 40% of food goes to waste – ending up in a landfill where it rots and releases greenhouse gasses. To help reduce your waste, plan your meals ahead for each week, compost your raw fruit and vegetable peelings, and only buy what you need when you need it. Another good idea is to go meat-free once a week, as livestock is a significant contributor to greenhouse gasses as well. It’s also less expensive to eat vegetarian, so think of all the cash you’ll save!

5. Go Solar

Home solar panels and solar panel installation in New Jersey is a great option for anyone wanting great long-term savings that benefit the planet. Thanks to New Jersey’s solar incentives program, homeowners can help pay off their solar systems even faster by selling excess energy to the grid. There are also a wide range of financing options to make this project more affordable for all homeowners, including solar leasing. It also increases the value of your home, so you’ll benefit while you live there and when you sell!

The Affordable Way to Go Solar – Professional Solar Installation in Morris County, NJ

Looking for the best solar companies in Morris County, NJ? At Greenhouse Solar, we offer the latest in powerful, reliable and affordable home solar systems. As a small local company, we specialize in residential solar installation in Morris County, NJ, and our fully-certified and experienced team is ready to design, install, and maintain your solar system and battery backup system, ensuring you get all the benefits of clean, affordable energy. We are an authorized dealer of SunPower solar systems, the most durable, high-performance panels on the market.

To find out more about solar installation cost in Morris County NJ, our company or services, please contact us today or visit our website at https://greenhouse.solar/

It’s almost impossible to give a client an exact number for solar installation costs in Morris County, NJ, without meeting them and discussing their energy savings goals. However, here’s some important insight into not only what influences the cost of a residential solar system, but also how you can make this project even more cost-effective.

What Impacts the Cost of Residential Solar in Morris County, NJ?

Size:

The bigger the system, the higher the cost. That being said, it also means greater long-term savings. So, that should be factored into your decision. A solar panel system that takes your home completely off the grid so you’re relying 100% on renewable energy is simply going to cost more than a system that’s designed to just support essential systems and appliances running. It also depends on how much energy your system will need to generate, as a fully off-grid solar system for two people in a small house will be much more affordable than one for a big family in a large house.

The Complexity of Installation:

Solar panels can be installed on almost any roof type, but some roof installations will be much more straightforward (and therefore more affordable) than others. Essentially, the simplest installations are on large, regular roofs that are in great condition and receive plenty of sun throughout the day. The more irregular or shaded your roof is, the more complex the installation. Roofs that are in poor condition may also require some repairs in order to install the panels securely.

Solar Panel Type:

Solar panels range a lot in price and, as a result, can make a big impact on solar installation costs. However, it is essential that you consider value for money rather than simply going for a cheap option to lower your cost. SunPower solar panels are a bit more expensive, but the quality will pay off in the long term. They look great, are better made, will last longer, and offer much higher efficiency than other panels on the market. In the long-term, this makes them the most affordable option as they deliver more energy and require fewer repairs and maintenance.

In addition, it is important to remember that all solar panel installations pay for themselves in the long-term through energy savings. There are also several affordable ways to pay for your residential solar system, including solar loans and lease programs, and you can further reduce costs through NJ state rebates and incentives.

Reduce Your Home Energy Bills – Contact the Specialists in Residential Solar in Morris County, NJ

Greenhouse Solar is one of the leading companies specializing in residential solar systems in Morris County, NJ. We are Sonnen Certified, and our experienced teams are ready to answer all your questions about home solar systems and solar battery backup systems. We are here to help design, install, and maintain your solar system, completely customized to your needs and budget. To find out more about home solar in Morris County NJ, our company or services, please contact us today or visit our website at https://greenhouse.solar/.

2019 is well under way and it’s showing that the trend for residential solar power is here to stay! If you’re thinking of projects that will upgrade your home and your quality of life, then here’s why you should consider home solar.

You’re supporting the environment: Solar power is a clean, renewable energy that produces no harmful emissions that damage the environment, unlike using fossil fuels.

They save you money in the long term: Although investing in home solar systems requires an upfront cost (this will vary according to the scope of your installation), your energy bill will immediately decrease substantially, leading to significant cost savings. This can be done through the New Jersey SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) market, the largest in the nation, and one with some of the highest prices in recent times. It’s important to note that NJ SRECS could expire, so it’s vital to get involved as soon as possible to reap the rewards.

2019 is the last year of the 30% tax credit: This year is the last year homeowners are eligible for the 30% tax credit as part of the solar incentives program, saving you 30% of the total cost of your home solar system. If you’re on the fence about getting a solar system for your home, it’s important to act now before you miss out on these savings.

It increases your home’s value: According to real estate agents, one of the most sought-after features in a home are those that lower day-to-day running costs – and that means home solar systems. It’s a great way to increase your home’s market value and add significant consumer appeal.

Make 2019 the Year You Save – Invest in Home Solar, Morris County NJ

At Greenhouse Solar, we offer the latest in powerful, reliable and affordable home solar systems. As a small local company, we specialize in residential solar in Morris County, NJ, and our fully-certified and experienced team is ready to design, install and maintain your solar system, ensuring you get all the benefits of clean, affordable energy. We are an authorized dealer of SunPower solar systems. To find out more about residential solar in Morris County NJ, our company or services, please contact us today or visit our website at https://greenhouse.solar/

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Category: Power Cost