Solar energy is a renewable energy source that recently became popular for its various benefits. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity that can be used to power any property. They are usually installed on roofs so that they can receive a lot of sunlight since more light means more energy. Solar technology has been around since the 70s but became commercially available in the last couple of years due to decreasing costs. Although the cost of installing a solar system is getting lower over time, it is still a bit expensive, which raises the question: are solar roofs worth it? Read on to know more.

Sun Exposure

The sun doesn't shine equally all over the world. Some parts have more sun exposure than other parts, and where you live has a huge factor in how efficient your solar system will be. Most solar panels can generate electricity even if the weather is cloudy. If there is no sun or the panels are shaded, the energy output will be heavily affected. Make sure that your solar panels are having enough direct sunlight, and sun exposure won’t be a problem for you.

Roof Design

The design of your roof will determine the cost-effectiveness of your solar system. If you have a small roof area, installing a solar system will not generate enough energy to power up your property. It makes solar system installation a substandard investment. If you have an adequate roof surface but it is filled with chimneys, skylights, and other roof features, it will affect the efficiency of your solar panels. 

Monocrystalline solar panels require less space to generate enough power, but they are more expensive than other types of panels. Additionally, the roof slope has a huge effect on installation as slopes other than 30 to 45 degrees require additional costs when it comes to labor and mounting equipment.

Energy Consumption

Before installing solar panels on your roof, you must know if this investment will save you money on energy consumption. The average household in Seattle uses around 500 kWh per month. You should calculate how much energy you consume per month. Afterward, you should calculate how much energy you will generate from a solar system. Keep in mind that you should consider both the solar system and its installation costs, as the information found at Artisan Electric, Inc states that solar panels can last up to 25 years but the cost should be taken into account when making the decision. If the system will generate more electricity than you consume, then it is an amazing investment.

The Grid

Living on-the-grid and off-the-grid is sometimes not a choice. For example, if you have a secluded cabin in the woods, you might not even have the option to connect to the grid as it will cost a huge amount of money. However, if you can connect to the grid, you may choose to do so based on the likelihood that you'll generate money from net metering. If your solar panels can generate more electricity than you need, you can give the excess energy to the grid and make money out of it with net metering. You need to check the rules with your local utility to know more about this option. If you don't care much for that, then you could disconnect from the grid depending on the energy you generate from the solar panels. 

Tax Incentives

Governments are encouraging citizens to switch to renewable energy as it takes a huge burden off their shoulders. However, each country or state has different solar system incentives. For example, you will get a 26% credit from the federal tax credit when you install a residential solar system. These incentives will add value to your installation costs as it gets a 100% tax exemption for residential properties while nonresidential properties get an 80% tax exemption.

Resale Value

If you plan to sell your property in the future, it is a good idea to install a solar panel. Solar systems increase the resale value of any property. Solar systems are considered a valuable asset as they save money. Buyers will be more tempted to buy a house with a solar roof as they know the return on investment is worth it in the long run.

Taking all these points into consideration will let you know if solar roofs are a worthwhile investment for you. Renewable energy is environment-friendly and saves money, but if they are installed in the wrong place, it will be a wasted investment. If you are unsure about solar panels, contact a professional solar installation company to help you make the best decision.