How Can You Save Money When Hiring A Solar Company in Norfolk, Virginia
Harnessing solar energy in Norfolk, VA is a savvy initiative. It's powered by an average of 213 days of sunlight in a year. You could save on hefty power bills through smart utilization. First, homes should invest in a premium solar panel system. The robust, reliable structure will increase energy conversion. Economize by capitalizing on the federal solar tax credit, which cuts 26% off the system investment. State laws back net metering, beneficial for excess power distribution. Feed electricity back to the grid when not in use, achieving utility bill credits. Assess your consumption patterns. Install energy-efficient appliances, to maximize the benefits of your solar power setup. Take advantage of peak sun hours. Norfolk clocks an average of 4.5 peak sun hours, best for high-energy tasks. Shoulder your power needs during this time. Note that temperature doesn't influence solar panel efficiency greatly. Hence, Norfolk's moderate climate of around 59°F will not impede performance. Solar power in Norfolk seems lucrative, given these key considerations.What is price situation for solar installers in Norfolk, Virginia in 2023
The solar panel market in Norfolk, VA reflects the increased adoption of solar technology. In Norfolk, favorable legislation boosts this shift. The Virginia Clean Economy Act, enacted in July 2020, increased renewable portfolio standards. It aims for renewable energy sources, like solar, to reach 100% by 2045. With this act, solar energy's value in Norfolk has skyrocketed, attracting new providers and driving increased competition. Norfolk also has a climate conducive to solar energy. On average, the city experiences 213 sunny days each year, favouring solar energy production. This allows homeowners to maximize the use of solar panels, hence reducing the payback period and increasing return on investment. Finding the best-priced solar provider in Norfolk, VA, requires a comprehensive comparison of providers. Consider factors beyond just the selling price of the panels. Installation cost, warranty duration, and panel efficiency all contribute to the long-term value of your investment. To gather authentic price data on providers, Virginia State Solar's website offers consistent updates. Review websites also publish information on each provider’s pricing and customer experience. Publicly shared quotes from actual customers found on these platforms offer valuable insights. Remember: cheaper upfront costs may not always mean better value in the long run. Regularly monitoring and comparing market prices is a good practice. Don't overlook potential long-term savings afforded by higher efficiency and quality.Find best solar installers in Norfolk, Virginia
Showing 1 - 5 of 120 locations
-
500 Woodlake Drive Suite 109, Chesapeake VA, 23320 5 mi
Incentives and Tax Credits
| NORFOLK-VA Solar Incentive | Description |
| Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) | In support of the nation's goals for renewable energy, the U.S. Federal Government allows a considerable deduction for NORFOLK-VA homeowners transitioning to solar power. The ITC offers homeowners the ability to claim 26% of the cost of their solar system from their federal taxes. |
| Net Metering | In NORFOLK-VA, the net metering policy is particularly beneficial to solar system owners. It provides them an opportunity to receive credit for the surplus energy they contribute to the grid. This credit can be conveniently used against future utility bills, making solar installation an economically viable option. |
| Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing | PACE Financing is a state-abbreviated scheme that enables homeowners in NORFOLK-VA to finance their solar panel system over a specific period without any upfront costs. The solar panel system's cost is added to the property tax bill and can be paid over time at a relatively lower interest rate. |
| Local Utility Rebates | Some utility companies in NORFOLK-VA, in their bid to promote clean, renewable energy, offer monetary rebates to customers who install solar systems in their homes. These rebates range from $50 to $500, offering a significant reduction in the overall costs associated with solar installations. |
Will Solar Increase Your Home Value in Norfolk, Virginia
Solar installation significantly enhances the value of homes in Norfolk, Virginia. Here's why. First, the state's ample sunshine boosts solar potency. Norfolk receives 213 sunny days per year, contrasting the US average of 205. This increases solar system efficiency, making homes with solar installations highly desired. Furthermore, Virginia offers a ten-year property tax exemption for solar installations. This state policy supports homeowners in saving money, attracting more buyers. In essence, a solar system installation is an investment opportunity that yields benefits with minimal risks. Solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) furnish an extra incentive. Virginia legalizes such deals, enabling homeowners to obtain solar power without owning the system. The user makes small monthly payments to the solar system owner, reducing electricity costs. Such savings increase the property price. Federal policy also plays a role. The Investment Tax Credit is a federal solar incentive allowing homeowners to deduct 26% of their solar system costs from federal taxes. This accelerates the payback period of the installed solar system, adding a favorable financial angle. Lastly, research data affirms that for similar homes, a solar-equipped house sells up to 20% faster and for 17% more. A study by Zillow found that homes with solar panels sell for 4.1% more. In a nutshell, these factors together make solar installations a strategic move for Norfolk homeowners planning to increase their property value.
Should Norfolk, Virginia Residents Hire a Professional Solar Installer Or DIY?
Solar installation in Norfolk, VA, presents unique dynamics. Regulations in this state favor professional installers. They're well-acquainted with permit applications, zoning laws, and grid interconnection procedures. For instance, state law SB 1091 dictates that only professionals can claim Renewable Energy Certificates. Use of professionals results in higher installation quality due to their expertise, which can extend a system’s lifespan. On the flip side, having a professional solar installer equates to high costs. The 2020 Solar Energy Industries Association report indicates that professional installations averaged $2.81/Watt, which is above the US average. DIY systems can significantly cut down these costs. However, solar installation isn’t a straightforward task. The Climate of Norfolk, with its high humidity and severe storms, may degrade poorly installed solar systems. DIY installations present substantial maintenance concerns due to an average homeowner's skillset limitations. Plus, certain rebates and warranties may only be accessible through professional installation. There are learning opportunities in DIY installation. It's about understanding the science behind solar energy. Nonetheless, considering the State's complex solar policies, climate, and the installation process's meticulous nature, professional installers seem to offer a more convenient and viable solution in Norfolk, VA. However, those with adept technical skills, ample time and willingness to navigate through the red-tape can consider DIY to save costs.
What Should Norfolk, Virginia Residents Look For in a Solar Installer?
In Norfolk, finding the best solar installer requires careful investigation. Key factors include knowledge of local laws, understanding the unique climate, and navigating incentives. Let's examine SunPower by Freedom Solar, Nippon America, and Infinity Energy, three installers that fit the bill. SunPower by Freedom Solar stands out due to their mastery of local regulations. They handle all permits, inspections, and rebates, eliminating stress for homeowners. Freedom Solar's comprehensive service makes your transition to solar effortless. Nippon America differentiates itself by customizing solutions based on Norfolk's climate. Their installations, tailored to handle the city's heat and humidity, increase longevity and efficiency. They make a strong case for the necessity of an installer with a keen understanding of local weather intricacies. Infinity Energy offers the best understanding of the Virginia Clean Economy Act incentives. They pass on financial benefits to customers, resulting in significant savings on the installation. Instead of getting entangled in legislative complexities, homeowners are provided financial clarity with Infinity. These examples illustrate the significance of finding a solar installer with specific local expertise, not just industry knowledge. Understanding Norfolk's laws, climate, and incentives is cardinal for a successful solar panel installation. Choose an installer that has these specifics on a fingertip. Conclusion - it's all about local specifics, not inadequate generalizations.Is it worthwhile to invest in solar in Norfolk, Virginia?
Investing in solar power in Norfolk, Virginia, brings notable benefits. Virginia's law promotes solar growth. A critical policy, the Virginia Clean Economy Act, passed in 2020, anchors this growth. This act mandates 100% clean energy by 2045. It signifies a large, secure market for solar. Norfolk experiences 213 sunny days annually. That's more solar irradiance and hence more energy production oppose to other states. Virginia's net metering policy adds to the allure. It allows solar system owners to get credits for feeding excess energy back to the grid. Some utilities even pay for the excess solar generation. Financial incentives make solar attractive in Norfolk. Federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) provides a 26% tax credit on solar system costs. Virginia offers a property tax exemption for solar. This law helps the property owner to save significant money on taxes. Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) exist in Virginia. System owners sell SRECs to utilities, making an additional income stream. Solar installations in 2020 increased by 37% in Virginia due to these factors. These are valid reasons reflecting why investing in solar power in Norfolk is a worthwhile decision. But it's crucial considering individual property circumstances and consulting with a solar professional locally. They can provide a customized analysis of potential ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How we estimate solar instalers? In Norfolk, VA, the ideal solar installer primarily complies with statewide solar laws and local regulations. They should possess valid certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Read through their reviews, looking specifically for issues with equipment or installations. Prioritize those with significant experience installing solar panels in Virginia's coastal climate, which might necessitate different mounting methods. A primary factor is the warranty the installer offers on the installation work and the solar equipment. They should propose valid solutions for maximizing returns from Virginia’s net metering policy. Lastly, examine their financing options to ensure they align with your budgetary needs.
- What are the most important factors to consider in Norfolk, Virginia? In Norfolk-VA, several vital factors play a part when deciding to go solar. Sunshine is plentiful here, making solar a great investment. State policy favors solar, with legislation offering rebates to offset initial costs. The average payback period in Norfolk-VA is under nine years. Virginia's power purchase agreement (PPA) allows homeowners a $0-down solar system. It's also important to note that Norfolk has interconnection standards in place, making it easier to connect the solar array to the grid. Electricity prices in Norfolk-VA are also quite high, meaning the potential savings from going solar can be considerable. Always check the solar panel efficiency and the roof's condition before installation.
- How do I find the most affordable solar company in Norfolk, Virginia? To find affordable solar installers in Norfolk-VA, conduct thorough online research and reviews. Websites like Solar-Installers-Review provide comparisons of installers. Check for available state-sponsored incentives; Virginia offers tax credits for solar installations. Pay attention to companies' certifications; reliable ones usually comply with the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners' regulations. Consider the local climate, Norfolk gets more sun than the national average, which may reduce costs. Ask for quotes from different companies, but remember, cheaper doesn't always mean better. Look for warranty, customer service, and post-installation support. Also, consider leasing options, which can allow lower initial costs.
- Is a bigger national solar company better for Norfolk, Virginia residents? For Norfolk residents, both national and local solar companies have their strengths. National providers like Sunrun often have more resources and broad experience. They offer standardized installation processes and may have longer warranties. However, local solar companies like Convert Solar are typically more knowledgeable about Norfolk's solar potential, local weather conditions, and state incentive programs. They're familiar with the procedural nuances of obtaining permits and inspections specific to Norfolk-VA. It's also important to factor in the personalized customer service that small local companies can offer. It's a mixed bag really – the choice ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences.
- Which companies did we not choose for the best in Norfolk, Virginia? Several reasons might warrant skipping some solar installers in Norfolk, VA. For instance, if they lack proper licensure—Virginia law stipulates mandatory competent contractor licenses. Similarly, disregard for county permits and inspections could break local rules. Poor customer reviews and lack of experience might imply meager service quality. Furthermore, Norfolk’s potpourri of weather patterns, ranging from snow to hurricanes, implies that installers must be deft at installing durable and adaptable systems. Some companies, however, might prove insufficiently adept. Thus, always investigate installers meticulously to find one proficient in dealing with Norfolk's unique weather conditions and legislative requirements.
