Fast Track to Solar Power in 5 Steps

Decide whether to switch to solar in 5 steps

Thinking about installing solar panels this year?  There’s no time like the present to take the plunge.  The past few years have seen some major developments in solar technology, plus price cuts of up to 50% in the last 12 months alone.  Add in the fact that you may be entitled to tax credits or rebates, and solar is shining brightly.

You can get on a fast track to solar power in 5 steps.  In a weekend or less, you’ll be ready to switch to free solar electricity with the security that comes along with a reliable renewable energy resource.  Simply consider the following questions, and then start shopping around for a solar panel supplier in your area.

1.  How much energy do you use?  Take a look at your recent utility bills and consider the amount of electricity (per kilowatt-hour) you use in a typical month.  Don’t forget to take into consideration any energy saving measures you may be adopting at the same time (energy saving light bulbs, washing in cold water, unplugging appliances, etc.).

2.  Walk your property and take a look at exposure to sunlight.  Consider best positioning for a solar panel system (afternoon sunshine is required) and make sure there is no shading from adjacent properties or landscaping.

3.  Use an online tool like the PV Watt Solar Energy Calculator to calculate the number of solar panels you may need, given your latitude and energy requirements (determined in step 1).

4. Determine if there are rebates or tax incentives, and if so, how much!  To maximize your savings on solar panels, you may want to see if other people in your neighborhood or region are interested in joining together to negotiate a bulk discount, through a service like “One Block Off the Grid.”

5.  Do your own cost-benefit analysis.  Sure, solar panels can be an up-front investment, but the benefits of switching to solar power are long term and include increased property value, cleaner, greener living (smaller carbon footprint), and security against rising electricity costs in future years.

Its time to finally get off the fence!  Making a decision on solar power doesn’t take long.  The sun is up there just waiting for you to start tapping into its energy.

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