© Provided by Axios DenverSolar panel use continues to grow in the United States as companies and homeowners seek cost savings and environmental benefits.
Why it matters: Solar panels reduce greenhouse gas emissions and can improve air quality. They reduce your energy bills by an average of $1,500 per year.
According to the Solar Manufacturers Association, the amount of solar energy installed in residential buildings in the United States will increase by 40% from 2021 to 2022.
- According to a 2022 Pew Research Center report, 51% of Mountain West homeowners say they are seriously considering or have already installed solar panels.
Between the lines: Tax breaks and health are among the top reasons homeowners are considering solar, according to Pew
Zoom in: Here's what you need to know about installing solar panels in Colorado, according to Tanner Simen-Cox, program director for Solar United Neighbors in Colorado.
- The non-profit organization provides solar education and organizes cooperatives.
- How it works: People sign up to join the group, Solar United Neighbors asks for estimates, and the group chooses the best bid.
1. How do you know if your roof is suitable for solar panels?
The most ideal is a south-facing roof; East and west orientation is good; And north-facing roofs tend to be unsuitable for solar, says Simeon-Cox.
- As long as you don't have too much shade and have about 200 square feet of roof space, you should be a good candidate for solar.
Note: If your roof will be repaired or replaced within the next five to ten years, Simeon-Cox recommends updating it before installing solar panels. Their removal and installation are paid extra.
2. Do I have to be a home owner to get panels?
Yes, you usually need your own home to install the panels, says Simeon-Cox But Denver also has options for renters.
- Tenants can control public solar gardens located in public areas. According to Simeon-Cox, community solar panel customers receive a credit to their account each month.
3. What is the general price range?
Solar electricity costs about $3.25 per watt in Denver, Simeon-Cox said. Homeowners can expect to spend about $22,000 for solar panels.
- In Denver, low-income homeowners can apply for an $8,000 exemption. In 2023, there will be 24 countries. Learn more here.
- There is also a federal tax credit that pays up to 30% of project costs.
4. What if the sun does not shine?
Your solar panels won't work in the dark, but they usually produce more power than you need during the day, especially in the summer.
- This excess energy is fed back into the grid and you will receive a credit on your electricity bill for this contribution.
5. How long do solar panels last?
You can expect your panels to last about 25 years, says Simeon-Cox. At this point, efficiency and performance may decrease, which is a sign that it's time to replace the panels.
6. How to find the installer?
- Find out which installers have served Solar United Neighbors Cooperatives in the past
- Do a quick search and get an EnergySage quote. They help homeowners find quotes from different installers.
- Read reviews at SolarReviews. It contains a list of installers with customer reviews.
- See NABCEP guidelines.
- Talk to friends and neighbors who have gone solar.
7. Will solar panels work in snow?
If there is snow on your panel the output will decrease. But they're designed to snow fairly quickly, Simeon-Cox said.
- Pro tip: Ask your installer about snow guards.
Yes, but: In mountainous areas, solar energy production drops significantly in winter.
Dig deeper: Here are tips on how to avoid solar panel scams
