What is the real cost of home solar energy to the homeowner?
Radiation from the Sun is free of charge, but harnessing the Sun as a useful energy source costs money. The upfront investment in residential solar power is substantial. However, the investment in solar water heating usually only requires a modest investment. The maintenance cost for both types of systems is minimal and their life span is 15 to 20 years. The Gross cost of a Residential Solar Power Generator With good market research the gross cost is $5-$7 per 1 watt of production capacity. A typical US home needs a 3,000 Watts production capacity system. This is comparable to the price of a typical new family car. A homeowner that wants to invest in a clean power generator can receive help financially in their quest to achieve this goal. Energy Tax Credits The IRS, as well as most of the 50 states recognize the added value to the nation that can be accrued through investment in residential solar energy. Combined Energy Tax Credits start with a 30% threshold (the unlimited tax credit g