The benefits of installing solar on your property are wide ranging, from lowering/eliminating energy bills and increasing property values to helping improve the environment.

Lower your electric bills and lock in energy costs

When you begin to generate your own solar power, your monthly electricity bill can drop significantly. When you switch to solar power, you lock in low, predictable electricity costs for years to come. As utility rates continue to rise, your savings will grow every year. It’s a great long-term investment.

Increase your property values

A study from the University of California at Berkeley concluded that solar-equipped homes in California sold for $17,000 more than comparable homes without solar, while a study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that solar homes sold 20% faster and for 17% more.

Invest in your home — and enjoy added benefits

An investment in solar power will increase the value of your home. The money you save could help you afford the home improvement you’ve been wanting. Or, how about purchasing an electric vehicle and installing a charger in your garage? On average, most Americans spend about $120 a month or $1,440 a year on gas. Your solar panels will help eliminate your gas costs and leave you with extra spending money.

Solar technology is efficient and improving

In 1953, solar panels converted 4.5% of available energy to electricity. Today’s systems convert upwards of 23% with panels a fraction of the size. Inverter technology — which converts the electricity from your solar panels into electricity that you can use in your house — continues to improve. Today you also can monitor your solar energy production from any web browser anywhere in the world. Some monitoring programs also provide data on home usage and the net difference.

Solar systems are low maintenance

Photovoltaic devices — AKA solar panels — directly convert solar radiation into electricity, with no noise, pollution or moving parts, making them vigorous, reliable and long-lasting. Solar panel manufacturers include a 20 to 25-year warranty (also known as a performance guarantee) with their solar panels. The industry standard guarantees 80% performance after 25 years, but the actual lifespan of solar panels is much longer and will likely generate a good amount of electricity 30 to 40 years down the line.

Help decrease global warming

Coal, oil and fossil fuels become scarcer by the day, while sunshine is free and always available. Fossil fuels must be burned to produce electricity which creates unwanted by-products that release huge amounts of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Solar panels produce clean, renewable energy.