Utah Goes Solar with SunPower®
Solar Panels in the State that Pioneered Solar Farms
Utah’s interest in solar energy began over 40 years ago, according to geology.utah.gov, when in 1980 a first-of-its-kind solar farm called The Natural Bridges National Monument Solar Power System was established.
It was an experimental installation and the world’s largest solar farm on the day it opened, with more than 250k solar panels and the ability to generate 100kW of electricity. The project was considered a great success and an incredible educational example of the power of solar as a clean, renewable resource. Since then, installations have been built or are planned to be built in “Beaver, Box Elder, Carbon, Emery, Iron, Juab, Millard, Rich, Sanpete, Tooele, and Washington Counties.”1
The state's natural abundance of sunshine and willingness to try something new helped position the state as one of the forerunners in the solar industry, and here in the present, solar power has become more powerful than ever. In fact, the solar industry has grown rapidly over the last several years, and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reports that Utah alone projects an increase of 4254 MW in the next five years, which will more than double the current solar capacity in the state.2
For the state that pioneered solar farms, the future of solar energy has great potential, and homeowners across Utah can benefit by getting in on the movement to clean energy.
SunPower service areas in Utah: Orem.
Save by Going Solar
How Much Power Can a Solar Panel Produce in Utah?
Determining the exact power production of a solar panel is based on several factors, including power rating, acquired sunlight, and efficiency of the panel. Energysage.com says that the most popular panels on the market can generate 450W of energy when positioned in full sunlight. While this is an incredible increase in the capabilities of solar equipment compared to the first products marketed, it still means that a normal home needs somewhere around 16-25 solar panels for whole-home power.3
The good news is that in Utah, well-designed residential solar systems are much more likely to offset their energy needs thanks to that incredible Utah sun! Energysage goes on to report that Utah solar systems enjoy an average 97% electricity offset.4 Solar clearly has great potential for homeowners in Utah.
Talk to a SunPower expert today about what going solar could do for you.
The Benefits of Installing Solar Energy Systems in Utah
Installing a modern solar energy system is a smart investment for Utah homeowners. It may lower electricity costs and provide stability and peace of mind with rising electricity costs. However, the advantages go beyond just saving money.
Increase Home Value5
Solar panel installation is also a smart investment for realtors and homeowners who decide to sell their homes. This upgrade can add more home value, making it a powerful asset. Sources like Energysage.com report that a well-installed solar system can increase the value of a home or property by as much as 10%.5 Perhaps going solar is the home improvement choice of the future.
Energy Independence and Reliability
Another significant benefit for homeowners is the potential for energy independence and reliability. A solar panel paired with high-quality battery storage, like an IQ Enphase 10C battery, can keep lights and appliances running even during temporary power outages. Grid independence is putting literal power in the hands of homeowners.
Improved Health and Environment
Solar’s potential isn’t just good for homes; it also contributes to a brighter future for the environment and generations to come. Solar power is clean and renewable energy that lowers a household’s carbon footprint. Sustainable energy production is the best way for Utah to move forward with confidence.
The Cost of Building a Solar Installation in Utah
The practical and substantial benefits of solar installations are driving many people to make the change to solar. But for most homeowners, the big question is, what will it cost?
SunPower puts a priority on helping homeowners customize their system to fit their needs, but of course, this means that each solar installation is unique. And that means that costs will vary for every system and are shaped by many elements, such as:
The home’s energy consumption.
Number of panels and equipment quality.
Battery storage addition.
In Utah, the average cost of a solar energy system is $2.60 per watt,3 but while estimated averages develop a baseline, SunPower’s approach isn’t just about the price, but also about long-term value. We seek to provide a complete, integrated solution that is built to last for decades. By working with SunPower’s local installers and energy advisors, you can trust that you will be directed to the best choices for investing in a solar energy system and be directed on how to reduce costs and acquire long-term savings.
Own Your Solar System with Easy Solar Financing
How Should You Get Started with Solar in Utah?
For homeowners looking to invest in solar power for their home, the beginning of the journey is finding the right team to guide you through the process. In an era of do-it-yourself mentality, homeowners may be tempted to try discount solutions. However, not only is DIY solar less likely to perform at optimal levels, but it’s also illegal to install photovoltaics without the appropriate licenses.
Instead, look to hire experts in the field. This will ensure that your solar system is designed with the specifications that will serve your home best. With an expert as a guide, you can be educated on all the options available and make informed decisions about the kind of investment you want to make. Professional teams can also assist in securing the best discounts, rebates, incentives, or financing plans.
Financing is important since not all homeowners will be able to afford an upfront investment in solar. And while paying in cash is the quickest path to a return on investment, there are many other options:
Solar loans: With little to no down payment, solar loans make solar accessible. While costs are often higher due to interest, loans are a way that residents can still own the panels and save more in the long run.
Solar leases or Third-Party Owners: With a solar lease, a third party retains ownership of the panels installed on a home, and the homeowner agrees to buy the energy from the panels at a fixed price.
Subscriber Solar: In some locations in Utah, you can subscribe to solar power at a fixed rate if there is a local solar farm near you.
When you are ready to explore your options for going solar, it’s easy to get started. At SunPower, we are committed to delivering the best we can. With training and experience in the solar energy industry, our team is ready to help you get started today.