Editorial staff
The truth is that modern systems generate electricity throughout the year, especially when paired with battery storage for later use. If you’re going full solar, look for trusted contractors near me to get quotes and compare available options in your ZIP code.
Solar Panels are Ridiculously Expensive.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the last decade has shown a steady decline in costs for residential, commercial, and utility-scale PV systems, with some prices falling by more than 50%. Add to these new advancements in tech, lower installation costs, a fall in manufacturing costs, and a slew of government incentives, and you’re looking at solar system costs of $15,000 to $21,000. Not exactly pocket change, but in the span of 25 to 30 years, you’re looking at saving $25,000 to $40,000 on electricity bills.
Cloudy Weather is Not for Solar Panels.
On cloudy days, they pull in scattered sunlight. Sure, you will lose some efficiency — expect a 10–25% drop — but overall, the power will keep flowing and your savings will keep adding up. After all, Germany is a notoriously cloudy country, and yet they install panels like nobody’s business and still rank among the global leaders in solar energy capacity.
Hiring the Right Pro
Shady forums and expired listings are a one-way ticket to financial woes. The best way to hire a contractor is to use an online aggregator like MyHomeQuote. An online aggregator is a platform that connects you to verified professionals and offers reviews and ratings that will help you choose the right one. Here’s a quick checklist of what to look for when searching for the best in your area:
- Verified Platform. A good platform should include online quotes available on-site, linking you to vetted contractors in your area.
- Licensing & Certifications. A solar contractor must have licenses and NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification.
- Warranty. Panels often come with 20 years of coverage.
- Compare Quotes. Compare at least four contractors near you (price, equipment, financing options). MyHomeQuote has a handy online calculator that helps you with the work estimate and saves you from disappointments down the road.
- Reviews. The platform should offer reviews from real customers.
To wrap it up, solar panels might be a hefty investment, but over the next two decades, you can save double your electricity bill. And if you have an excess? Just sell it back to your utility company; many states run net metering programs that allow you to earn an additional buck.
Editorial staff
