Is now the time to go solar?

By Lisa Rimmert on April 10, 2020

With the changes our world is facing due to COVID-19, you may have questions about going solar. And, you may be wondering how our solar co-ops work during this uncertainty.

The information below will help you to make an informed decision about investing in solar energy this year, including as a co-op member.

➡️ Bottom line: Now could be a great time to go solar!

Is my solar co-op still open and progressing?

Yes! All over the country — from 🌄 Mesa County, CO, to 🏝 St. Petersburg, FL — we’re teaching people how solar works, helping them review proposals, and putting solar energy to work for more communities!

Here are some things we’re doing to make our solar co-ops work for you during this time:

  • We’re hosting all our solar information sessions as online webinars
  • Selection Committees are now meeting online to review proposals and choose solar installers
  • Co-op members are receiving regular updates from us via email
  • We’re working closely with installers to confirm and share their safety protocols for interacting with customers

Why go solar now?

In 2020, the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is 26% of the full system cost.

But it decreases to 22% next year. And in 2022, it expires altogether for residential solar customers.

Plus, the benefits of going solar —

  • long-term savings,
  • predictable payments,
  • self-sufficiency,
  • clean energy,
  • and more

— may feel even more important to you now.

Is it financially wise?

Going solar is often a long-term cost saver compared to buying electricity from the power company. Think of it like buying versus renting a home. The upfront cost of going solar is an investment in your energy future.

Going solar means taking control of your energy production. Instead of paying the electric company unpredictable amounts each month, you’ll be offsetting that cost with home-generated solar electricity.

If you’re considering paying in cash but feeling conservative with your finances in these uncertain times, you may want to investigate financing through a loan. Many solar loans have no penalty for prepayment.

If you’re interested in taking advantage of low interest rates, there are many banks that can add a solar system into a mortgage refinance without adding to your monthly payment. And solar loans often cost less per month than electric bills!

Is it safe for myself and others?

When it comes to going solar, you can get pretty far in the process from the comfort and safety of home. The first step is to learn, research, and make a plan. The installation comes later.

We can help! On our website, you’ll find answers to FAQs, guides, and free webinars about solar technology, solar economics, and our solar co-ops.

What if I have health or safety concerns?

We recommend talking with your chosen solar installation company to address these concerns.

We communicate with solar installers on behalf of our co-op members, ensuring that installers have a plan to protect everyone’s safety — from moving site visits online to ensuring that installers wear personal protective equipment.

If going solar is right for you, we can help you do it.

Solar United Neighbors is a non-profit that helps you go solar, join together, and fight for your energy rights.

Our solar co-ops bring people together (virtually, these days!) to learn about solar energy and use bulk purchasing power to get competitive pricing and quality solar installations.

Sound good to you? Visit our co-op page to learn more and join a solar co-op.

Have questions? Email us at info@solarunitedneighbors.org.