Long Term and Short Term Benefits of Solar Energy
Contributed by Tim Smith
Via Modernize.com
When used properly, solar energy provides tremendous benefits to both residential and commercial environments. Many of these benefits are immediate. Some of the benefits do not become apparent until later on. These short and long-term benefits are what make solar energy a choice for those interested in long-term sustainable energy use.
What You Get Now, the Short Term Benefits of Solar
Via Modernize.com
Solar energy solutions grant both short and long term benefits to those that choose to implement them.
Decreased dependency
One of the most important benefits of solar energy is a decreased dependency on oil, gas, or grid electricity. Of course, a lot of how much you can reduce your dependence has to do with your specific type of solar installation. Some installations are suitable as backup energy and some can run a device or two. But, more efficient (and expensive) installations can power an entire home and then some. Extra energy can be sold back to your local utility company so that you are actually receiving a check in place of a bill each month.
Increased home value
Another immediate benefit of solar comes with increased property value. The second you add a solar solution, you increase the value of your home. This is another benefit that is important in the short term when evaluating the equity you have in a home but will pay dividends in the long run if you decide to sell your home.
As the cost of other energy producing fuels go up, so too does the value of the building that has solar power already built in. It’s also important to note that solar is not taken into account as a taxable home improvement project so you are increasing the value of your home without increasing your property taxes.
Free Money
Maybe not free exactly, but there are many local, state, federal, and third-party programs out there for those that make a choice to install a solar solution. These programs come in the form of tax breaks, rebates, grants and credits. You can find out more about the best benefits in your state by talking to a local solar provider.
What You Get Over Time and in the Future
Via Modernize.com
When you install solar energy in your home or business, you are making an investment. While the short-term benefits are nice, you invested in the many long-term benefits as well. Eventually, the solar system you use can even pay for itself – talk to your solar contractor about this and they can usually calculate the amount of time it will take for your solar addition to break even.
Your home value will continue to climb and even if home values fluctuate, yours will always stand just a little bit higher than others without solar because even if home values in your neighborhood aren’t increasing, the cost of energy probably is.
Tim Smith is a former contractor who writes about home improvement and energy efficiency topics for Modernize.com. Tim loves spending time with his family and loves DIY projects.”
I like how you mentioned that solar energy can increase your property value. It makes sense that by equipping your home with solar, it could raise the value of your home. My aunt has taken an interest in being environmentally friendly. It might interest her to invest in solar panels to not only help the earth but to also add value to her property.
It sounds like I need to get solar panels for our house. I love the fact that some installations, even though they’re more expensive, can run a whole house. That would be worth it, in the long run. If we do get solar, that’s what I think we’ll go for.
Thanks Ridley,
Lots of things that cost a lot up front save money in the long run.
I love that you talked about how solar panel systems offer both long term and short term benefits. I was thinking of installing good quality solar panels in our roof deck, and it’s great that you tackled about the advantages of it, which helps my decision-making. I had no idea that the local and federal governments offer tax breaks, rebates, grants, or credits to those who own one at home. I guess I shall then start discussing matters with the local provider.
Thanks Victoria,
This post is now five years old. Some of the incentives may have expired, but by all means, look at every angle, including any remaining tax breaks.