Most solar systems are financed and the new finance payments are lower than the previous utility bills, he says.
Guy Kobey, Northern Arizona solar sales manager for Sunny Energy, says solar energy and Flagstaff are a natural fit, as long as sun can hit the roof. “The numerous sunny days and cooler temperatures mean that a solar system in Flagstaff and Prescott will generally outperform a solar system in other warmer parts of the state.”
Through residential rooftop solar systems, solar energy companies say they are helping customers become less reliant on fossil fuels and save on utility bills. “We can also help homeowners protect their family during a grid outage by installing battery backup combined with the solar electric system,” he said.
Solar Life also serves the Flagstaff area. CEO Jeff Grubert says the price of residential solar energy is based on the size of the system or the amount of power a customer wants to obtain.
“While we offer cash purchase options, most homeowners do not see the wisdom in sinking a lot of cash into a purchase option,” said Grubert. “The best way to go solar is to use the 26% federal tax payment as a down payment and, with no additional cash out of pocket and a 650 credit score, a homeowner can use a low-cost purchase option to lower the monthly cost of electricity.”
Beyond the long-term cost savings for electricity on a home, a homeowner likely will increase the value of the home, but more importantly, enjoy living in the house more, he added. “They get independence, freedom and control over their utility costs.”
Kobey says clean energy helps to stabilize the grid, resulting in fewer outages, while benefiting the environment. “Residential solar generally has no moving parts and the energy created is pollution-free. It is estimated that the U.S. now has more than 90 gigawatts of cumulative installed electric capacity, enough to power more than 16.4 million average American homes, and offset more than 100 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.”
Beyond environmental benefits, Kobey emphasizes four ways that solar energy is helping homeowners:
Savings: Most solar systems are financed and the new finance payments are lower than the previous utility bills, he says.
Independence: Homeowners have freedom from rate hikes. “Now, you have a choice to produce your own electricity right on your own roof and the cost of the energy does not increase,” said Kobey.
Increased home values: In the past, some solar systems were leased and those did not add value to homes. However, a recent Zillow study shows that homes with owned solar systems will typically sell for 4.1% more than a similar home without solar. “The simple reason is that homes with solar have much lower utility bills and cost less each month to own and operate than homes without solar.”
Security: In the event of a grid outage, homeowners with solar and batteries can still run most of their devices. “Often, homeowners will choose to back up circuits such as refrigerators, lights, communications, security and garage doors.” FBN
By Stan Bindell, FBN