GOING SOLAR IN THE FIRST STATE
Why go solar in Delaware
Not only does Delaware ensure you can get net metering, but both large utility companies in the state offer some kind of incentive. Delaware is also one of the few states that offers Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs), another opportunity to get paid for the energy you produce. Right now may be the perfect time to go solar in Delaware!
Save on energy
Delaware homeowners see above average electricity rates. Time of use (TOU) billing could be partially to blame. Depending what time you are using energy, your bill may be higher. Rather than pay high TOU rates, install a solar system to run on sunshine. Your system can power your home during the day. If you have batteries, you likely won’t need any energy at night either!
Be prepared for outages
Delaware is known for independence. With batteries and a solar system, you too can have the freedom to power your home. In the event of a power outage, you can keep your lights on using your battery stored power. Installing a solar system will give you peace of mind knowing you won’t be left in the dark.
Preserve Delaware’s outdoors
Delaware is full of beaches and beautiful outdoors. Many homeowners decide to go solar to preserve the state’s outdoor beauty and to feel good about reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions, such as CO2 contribute to pollution and climate change.
Have predictable payments
If you are currently on a Time of Use (TOU) rate plan, you may want to go solar. Electricity is more expensive at certain hours of the day or months of the year. Your solar system may produce enough energy so you only pay the minimum toward your utility. Then you can budget your monthly solar cost. Your monthly bills will be much more predictable.
Invest in your home
If you ask your neighbors, some of them have already gone solar to build equity. Going solar may add value to your home and may help it sell faster. The average Delaware home is currently valued at $284,787, that is a 9.6%* annual increase from last year. Keep up with the rising home values, especially if you want to sell in the future.**
Solar incentives in Delaware*
Delaware is one of the few states who participate in a Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) program. You can sell your SRECs to participating utilities. This is on top of Delaware’s Net Metering programs that also allow you to sell excess energy to your utility at the retail rate. Delmarva Power is currently offering a Green Energy Grant, $1,000 incentive for qualified customers.
Delaware homeowners are also eligible for the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC).*** The ITC allows you to deduct 26 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes.
Solar panels perform in all kinds of weather
Going solar is a big decision, and although there are many factors you should consider, local weather shouldn’t be a deterrent. Solar panels are designed to work in almost any type of weather… even snow and clouds!
Sunny
There are sunny days ahead for solar. The more sun you have access to, the longer your panels work during the day. Your panels work best at converting energy when sun rays shine directly at them. The more energy you produce, the more excess you may be able to send back to the grid. Take advantage of the excess through net metering and other incentive programs.
Rainy
As the rain pours down, your panels will continue to be hard at work. Solar panels will work with reflected or partially blocked sun rays to keep your home powered. Your production is linked to the amount of clouds. Rain will have some effect on your production, but the rays will still penetrate through the rain. It may actually help keep your panels working efficiently as they wash away any dust or dirt.
Cloudy
It is a misconception that panels don’t work on cloudy days. The best way to know how much the clouds affect your system’s performance is to monitor your system on sunny days and compare. Your system may actually be more efficient without the excess heat. This is because solar systems prefer the cold! The sun’s rays are still able to penetrate through cloudy skies and keep your system running.
Snowy
Amazingly enough, even when covered in snow a solar system can still produce power! Scattered light filters through snow and reaches solar panels even when the snow cover is fairly heavy. Your solar panels may actual be more efficient in light snow. Cold weather helps them perform better, and usually snow slides right off. Power production may be reduced with heavier snowfall, but your system can still produce.
Windy
Solar panels are highly reliable and sturdy, they hardly notice your average winds. In most cases, damage from wind will be due to weakened roofs, not solar panels. This is why we assess your roof condition and reccomend any repairs prior to installing your system. In the event that higher winds cause an outage in the grid, you will still have power if you have batteries with your system.
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*This information is current as of May 5, 2021 and figures are approximate. Customers are encouraged to check with their local utility providers for the most up to date and accurate information.
**We advise you to consult with the appropriate professionals (including, but not limited to, your solicitor or attorney, accountant, CPA, CGA, or any other financial or legal advisor) for the implications of any information contained in our website and in any link you access through our website.
***You should contact a qualified tax expert and consult with them. Neither Freedom Forever’s family of independent authorized dealers nor Freedom Forever itself can give you tax advice. A qualified tax professional will understand your situation and be able to give you the most relevant advice.
