Georgia has solar on its mind

The state of solar in Georgia

Georgia is one of the sunniest states in the nation, with an average of 218 sunny days each year.^*BestPlaces.net, Georgia, (Aug 2021) https://www.bestplaces.net/state/georgia This ample access to sunlight allows Georgia to make the most of solar energy production throughout the state.

Georgia is currently the 9th-ranked solar state in the U.S. due to its impressive solar energy production. The state has invested $3.7 billion into solar energy, which has paid off in Georgia's newfound ability to power 359,160 homes with its existing solar installations.

How much does solar cost in Georgia?

The cost of solar panels for homes can vary, even in the same state, due to a range of factors. These include:

• Roof space

• Household's energy needs

• Quality of the solar panels

• Angle of the roof

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we've analyzed SunPower price quotes as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources for thousands of homeowners across the country.

In Georgia, we found that the average cost of owning a 5 kW solar system ranges from $11,150 to $14,850, or in other words from $2.23 to $2.97 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

Georgia offers a few incentives to encourage its residents to switch to solar energy.

• First, the Solar Power Free-Market Financing Act of 2015 established a program that facilitates financing arrangements between private solar providers and homeowners.^*Southern Environmental Law Center, Georgia's third party solar financing law goes into effect today, (Jul 2015) This program can reduce or even eliminate up-front costs of going solar.

• Georgia Power, a Georgia-based utility company, will buy back any excess solar energy that customers produce through their solar installations.^*EnergySage, Georgia Power, (Aug 2021) https://www.energysage.com/local-data/net-metering/georgia-power Customers can participate in this program on a first-come, first-serve basis until Georgia Power generates 0.2% of its peak power demand through solar.

• Finally, Georgia residents can benefit from the federal investment tax credit, a 30% income tax credit for homeowners who power their homes using solar energy.^*Tax credits and incentives are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

What are the advantages of going solar in Georgia?

Switching to solar in Georgia is an excellent way for residents to contribute to the state's clean energy goals. A 2021 report found that 100% clean energy is feasible in Georgia by 2035.^*SEIA, Georgia Solar, (Q1 2021) https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/georgia When individual homeowners make the switch to solar panels, they do their part to contribute to this clean energy initiative.

Going solar can also offset Georgia's carbon emissions. If Georgia achieved its solar capacity of 35,000 MW, the state would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 26.8 million, which is the equivalent of taking 5.7 million cars off the road for an entire year.^*Google, Project sunroof data explorer, (Nov 2018)

What's the best way to go solar in Georgia?

Going solar may feel like a big decision, but the significant energy savings and carbon emission reductions going solar produces make it worthwhile for Georgia homeowners. If you’re ready to switch to solar energy, contacting a professional solar provider is your best next step.

A reputable solar provider will assess your property and perform an assessment to determine the proper installation for your needs. They will also ask you questions, such as:

• What is your home's typical energy usage?

• Do you want to produce excess energy to sell back to Georgia Power?

• Do you want battery storage to help prepare yourself for unexpected power outages?

Your provider will use the answers to these questions, along with your property information, to craft a custom solar solution that best meets your needs.

Get started now by requesting your consultation below. We'll follow up with a quick call to schedule a time. You can also call us directly at 1-385-489-5552.