The Comfortable Side of Coastal embraces solar energy

The state of solar in Salisbury

While Salisbury isn't the sunniest city in the U.S., with an average of 209 sunny days per year,^*Best Places. Salisbury, Maryland Climate, May 2021. nearly 70% of rooftops in the city are still solar viable.^*Google, Project Sunroof data explorer (November 2018). Salisbury took steps in recent years to help increase solar adoption rates and was named a Sustainable Maryland Certified community in 2019 for its green initiatives.

How much solar energy does Salisbury produce?

The Maryland Energy Administration has lent a hand in helping Salisbury go solar in recent years with grants, tax credits, and more. They have contributed to 32 projects in the city and 65 in Wicomico County as a whole. Some of those installations are quite large, such as Salisbury University’s 541.8 kW solar parking canopy.

What are the advantages of going solar in Salisbury?

The environmental benefits are a popular reason to switch to solar energy. Solar is a carbon-neutral energy source and an effective way to reduce carbon emissions. If every solar-viable roof in Salisbury were to feature a solar system, we could offset emissions equivalent to removing 33,300 vehicles off the road for an entire year!^*Google, Project Sunroof data explorer (November 2018).

Of course, there are also financial benefits to choosing solar energy. A 5 kW solar system could offer over $20,000 in electricity cost savings over 20 years of use. It's possible to break even on your installation costs in as little as 12 years.^*Energy Sage. Solar Panels in Salisbury, MD. May 2021. Installing a solar system could also increases your home’s value without increasing your property taxes.

Plus, with backup battery storage, solar energy can help you reduce your reliance on the grid, which can be helpful during power outages, especially during winter storms.

How much does solar cost in Salisbury?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors. These include:

• Prices in your local area

• Brand of equipment you use

• Number of solar panels in your system

• Location of panels (roof or ground, for example)

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.^*Local Solar Installers 2020/2021, Solar Reviews 2021, Energy Sage 2021, Wood Mackenzie 2020, National Renewable Energy Laboratory 2020 In Salisbury, we found that the average investment to own a 5 kW solar system is $14,500, or in other words, from $2.90 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

If you purchase rather than lease your solar system, you may be able to claim a 26% federal tax credit. This credit has no limit. The state of Maryland also has a few solar incentives. The Maryland Solar Rebate Program offers $1,000 per project for systems over 1 kW in size.^*The availability of tax credits and incentives is subject to change. Please visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information.

Those with grid-tied systems may also be able to earn Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC). For each MWh that your system produces, you'll earn one SREC, which you can sell. Delmarva Power, Salisbury’s electricity utility provider, has an SREC buying program, but it is currently on hold, and it's not clear when it will be open again. When open, the program often pays between $20-$50 per SREC.^*Delmarva Power. Yearly Solicitations. May 2021.

What’s the best way to go solar in Salisbury?

Before deciding on a solar system, take the time to assess your current energy use and consider what you want to get out of the system. For example, are you hoping to gain extra energy independence or simply reduce your energy bills? How much roof space do you have available for a system? Are you more interested in saving on upfront costs or maximizing long-term savings with ultra-high-performing panels?

Every solar system is different, and it's important to choose the right equipment and setup. An experienced solar provider familiar with your area will be able to walk you through the best options for your needs and budget.

If you’re ready to get started, request a free consultation. We’ll follow up with a quick call to schedule a time, or you can also call us directly at (800) 786-7693.