2017 Is the Best Time to Go Solar
Five reasons you should make the switch today
Consumer Reports — one of the nation’s most trusted personal finance publications — offered a bold statement in a recent article: “There has probably never been a better time to switch to solar.” From tech improvements to environmental benefits to tax incentives, there are so many reasons why this is true. People are catching on: America has been averaging one new residential solar installation every 100 seconds. Here are five reasons to act now and install home solar:
1. This is the moment to take advantage of falling solar costs. Solar installation costs have fallen dramatically — to half of what they were in 2008 and 100 times less than what they were back in 1978. Still, as Consumer Reports notes, this is the time to go solar, rather than waiting on the sidelines for further price reductions: many of the recent price cuts have been “soft costs,” including labor costs that are unlikely to decline much further. You can have confidence installing solar today.
2. The 30% federal tax credit scales down starting in 2019. The federal government is still offering excellent incentives to go solar — but you must act now. In the coming years, tax credits will scale down to 26 percent and then to 22 percent. In addition to tax breaks, there are other excellent options including low-interest financing that are available now.
3. New Mexico’s “Net Metering” law makes solar a smart investment. Through “net metering,” New Mexico residents can generate their own power and get credit for what they provide to the grid for others to use. This law — in effect now — makes solar extraordinarily cost-effective.
4. Solar technologies and installation processes are better than ever. As the solar industry has grown and matured, customer satisfaction has reached impressive heights. Leading firms, including SunPower by Positive Energy Solar, are now able to design and install solar energy systems with minimal impact on your home’s appearance. Power failures are extremely rare, and customers can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a 25-year power and product warranty.
5. This is a crucial moment to help protect clean air and water. As challenges including water scarcity, air pollution, and carbon emissions intensify, people are looking for opportunities to live sustainably. Going solar is a simple and effective way to do your part. By eliminating the need for polluting and water-consumptive power plants, solar energy reduces harmful air pollution, saves vital resources, and improves our quality of life. It’s an easy way to be part of the solution.
