Are Solar Panels Worth It in Virginia?
Are solar panels worth it in Virginia? We surely think so! That’s why we have to tell you about some pretty great reasons to get solar panels for your home. There’s the passing of the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which makes clean energy more accessible and cost-effective. There are solar incentives that add some special perks on top of that. Then, as a bonus, there’s that great feeling inside from doing your part for the environment.
Homeowners who go solar have access to a host of benefits and we’re going to tell you all about them! In this blog, we’re taking a walk on the sunny side and diving into all the ways solar is worth it in Virginia.
Is Solar Worth it in Virginia?
Solar is certainly taking off in Virginia. And it makes sense why. Virginia is the land of rolling hills and magnificent trails across mountainous terrain. Its natural beauty is revered and holds much of what anyone could ask for in a home. But along with all that picturesque scenery comes a pretty price tag for electricity. Let’s get into the facts! And you can decide if solar really is worth it in your area.
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the state of Virginia has invested over $4 billion in solar(1), resulting in a total 3,845 megawatts (MW) of solar installed. That’s enough to power almost half a million households!
Benefits of solar panels in Virginia
Solar panels can be a great addition to many homes. But don’t just take our word for it. We understand that installing solar panels is a big decision, so we’ve got the information you’ll need to help you make your decision. We’ll cover:
- A sunny day surplus
- Taking control of high electricity bills
- Virginia Clean Economy Act
- Federal tax credit
- Lower carbon footprint
Let’s do a deep dive into why we think solar panels are worth it in Virginia.
A Sunny Day Surplus
It might seem like a no-brainer, but solar panels need plenty of sunshine. The good news is, Virginia has plenty of sun to give. With an average of 205 glorious sunny days in a year(2), there are quite a few opportunities to generate electricity with solar panels. Think of it like this: the more sunshine your roof has access to, the more electricity your solar system can generate.
For more information, get a crash course with us on how solar panels work.
Taking Control of High Electricity Bills
Just as the sun rises in the East, you can bet your electricity bill will be tugging at your pocketbook every month. In Virginia, electricity costs about 11 cents per kWh(3), totaling an average of about $124 a month on your bill. That means the typical Virginian household is paying nearly 16% more for their electricity than the national average. That’s a pretty penny when you consider the rising cost of wholesale natural gas. And since the U.S. generates most of our electricity from natural gas, the cost of electricity has increased significantly over the last few years.
Virginia Clean Economy Act
The Virginia Clean Economy Act will require the state’s utilities to switch to 100% clean energy by 2045. Subsequently, the state aims to add at least 16 GW of solar and onshore wind, 3 GW of energy storage, and to close all the state’s coal power plants by 2024. This plan also intends to do the following:
- Reduce reliance on fossil-fired generation
- Roll back unnecessary regulations
- Raise the cap on solar power purchase agreements from 50 MW to 1,000 MW.
- For more information about the solar incentives specific to Virginia, give us a call.
Federal Solar Tax Incentive
Also known as the federal solar tax credit, the investment tax credit (ITC) gives qualified homeowners with solar panels a credit on their federal taxes.* If you’re eligible, you’ll get to claim a tax credit for 30% of the cost of a solar energy system toward your federal taxes.*
Learn more about this incentive by speaking with one of our Solar Energy Specialists.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Environmental sustainability is a growing concern. People are now more conscious than ever about the world around them and there’s a lot of interest surrounding green practices. Solar panels could lower the carbon footprint of your home by generating clean energy. While it isn’t the ultimate cure to pollution, reducing the amount of traditional electricity you use helps you do your part to make the planet a little bit greener.
Are solar panels worth it in Virginia?
Yes, solar panels could be worth it in Virginia when you take into consideration the state’s more than half a year of sunny days and the many solar incentives available at the state and local level. Every day there seems to be more and more reasons to go solar, but are solar panels worth it in Virginia?
Solar comes with many advantages, including a nice solution to unpredictable utility bills, solar incentives for eligible homeowners and a great leap towards home energy independence.
Going Solar with ADT Solar
Regardless of which state you’re in, an investment in solar panels can be truly beneficial. Get all of your questions answered today with a free solar consultation from one of our Solar Energy Specialists.
Disclaimer:
*Consult a tax professional to understand any tax liability or eligibility for any tax credits that may result from the purchase of your solar system. Tax and credits or incentives including those provided by federal, state, or local governments may change or end. This can impact the amount of money you might save. If you have taxable income and own the system, you may qualify for the solar federal investment tax credit. It is your responsibility to determine your eligibility and to apply. Consult a qualified tax professional for assistance and details.
Sources:
- https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/virginia-solar
- https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/state/virginia/
- https://www.electricitylocal.com/states/virginia
