The global cost of relying on traditional fossil fuels for residential energy has convinced many states, including Maryland, to invest in renewable energy solutions. Solutions such as solar installations reduce Maryland’s impact on national GHGs (“greenhouse gas emissions”), save homeowners money on utility bills, and invest in a cleaner future. However, choosing and installing a solar energy solution can be challenging for many homeowners.
In this guide, we aim to help Maryland homeowners analyze their choices for solar energy solutions and choose the one that makes sense for their situation. While the cost, features, and efficiency ratings of different solar energy solutions may vary, any solar energy investment is an important step toward sustainability, a goal for many Maryland homeowners.
The Benefits of Solar Energy
Residential solar energy comes with essential benefits that homeowners should know before choosing the best solution for their home. These benefits include:
Lower Utility Bills
Switching to solar saves homeowners on their utility bills. The amount you save will depend on several factors, including your electricity consumption, the size of your installation, and the sunlight conditions in your area. The long-term savings possible with modern solar installations have driven over 4.4 million American homes to switch to solar.
Resilience to Outages
Residences that generate solar power can keep the lights on even if the grid goes down. Systems equipped with battery storage can continue powering the home even during a storm.
Increased Home Value
A new solar installation can increase the value of the home. With demand for solar power steadily rising each year to counteract rising fossil fuel costs, renewable energy will become a primary selling point for home buyers moving forward.
How to Choose Between Solutions
To take advantage of these benefits, homeowners can follow this step-by-step guide to choosing the best solar energy solutions for their homes:
Define Energy Needs
Every homeowner’s energy needs are different. Depending on your current power usage and sustainability goals, you may need to invest more in your solar installation. Clearly defining your home’s energy needs will help you narrow your search for solar panels by the size, type, and power output needed to meet your energy goals.
Consider the Budget
Solar installations are investments, but they also involve considerable upfront costs. Your budget will determine the type of solar panels that make sense in your situation. More expensive installations will reap greater long-term rewards due to better energy efficiency, but not all households can afford them.
Speak with your solar energy provider to budget your solar installation. They can help you find a solution that balances long-term savings with short-term affordability.
Compare the Products
You will have options when customizing your new solar panel installation, including its size and alignment. Your new panels should be built for maximum efficiency based on your property, including the angle of alignment with the sun and the location of the array.
Additionally, solar systems can be purchased with solar battery backups, which provide added benefits for an additional cost. Solar batteries store energy, allowing the home to operate at full capacity at night or during a power outage.
When choosing a battery, you will have a choice between two types. Lead-acid batteries are less efficient but more cost-effective. In contrast, Lithium-ion batteries are more costly but of higher quality. By comparing your product options, you can choose the best setup for your situation.
Research Benefits
Homeowners who switch to solar may be eligible for certain tax benefits or credits. The Maryland-Eligible Renewable Energy Credit (REC) is one such program that incentivizes homeowners willing to invest in solar installations for their homes. Ask your solar provider about potential tax benefits to maximize your new installation.
Research Competitors
Installing solar panels in your home is a significant decision with long-lasting financial implications. Compare solar products from different providers to learn what they can offer. Prioritize providers offering free quotes and inspections to make sure you find a solar provider with your best interests in mind.
Contact Energy Select for Affordable Solar Panel Solutions for Your Home
A solar installation can deliver numerous benefits to Maryland homeowners. With access to renewable, affordable energy, you can save on utilities, take advantage of tax benefits, and even make extra money through government programs.
The problem is knowing how to choose the best solar energy solutions for your situation. At Energy Select, we help homeowners choose, price, and install modern solar installations.
We use modern techniques and materials to make sure your system is as energy-efficient and cost-effective as possible. Contact the team at Energy Select today to schedule a consultation and learn how our state-of-the-art solar installations can help you save on utilities by investing in clean, renewable energy for your home.