Chances are, you know someone who has made the switch to solar or, at the very least, you’ve noticed solar panels being installed throughout Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and the Santa Fe area. There’s also a good chance you’ve seen some of Positive Energy Solar’s work – we’ve been installing solar on homes and businesses in New Mexico for over 21 years including notable projects for Santa Fe Public Schools, Meow Wolf, Tomasita’s restaurant, and PNM just to name a few.
So, what’s driving the increasing interest in solar energy and how do you evaluate which company to work with? Here’s a quick and easy guide to going solar, and choosing the right solar company for your needs.
What your solar powered neighbors already know:
- Solar is better for the environment
This is a crucial moment to help protect clean air and water. As challenges including water scarcity, air pollution, and carbon emissions intensify, people are looking for opportunities to live sustainably. Going solar is a simple and effective way to do your part. By eliminating the need for air-polluting and water-wasting power plants, solar energy reduces harmful air pollution, saves vital resources, and improves our quality of life. It’s an easy way to be part of the solution.
- There are generous solar tax rebates expiring soon
The Federal Tax Credit offers an incredible 30% reduction in solar installation cost for systems installed in 2019. It might seem like you have all year to decide, but the deadline will be here before you know it. Installation spots are filling up quickly and the transition to solar can take several months, depending on many factors such as permitting, HOA processes, and your utility providers backlog.
- You can finance solar for the same or less than your monthly power bill
Solar installation costs have fallen dramatically — to half of what they were in 2008 and 100 times less than what they were back in 1978. Perhaps one of the biggest advancements in solar has been the willingness for financiers to offer solar loans for homeowners. You can now get a $0-down solar loan with fixed monthly payments that are less than your utility bill. That means immediate savings now, and even greater savings over time, as utility rates increase an average of 5% annually.
- Going solar is easier and more dependable than ever
As the solar industry has developed over time , customer satisfaction has reached impressive heights. Leading firms, including Positive Energy Solar, are now able to design and install solar energy systems with minimal impact on your home’s appearance and customers can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a combined 25-year power, product, and workmanship warranty.
Choosing the right solar company to work with:
Knock-knock. Who’s there? A bad solar deal. There are literally over 100 solar companies throughout New Mexico, some of which spring up overnight, and all offering different equipment, financing, warranties, and more. Most of the “door-knockers” are offering leases or power purchase agreements (PPA’s) that sound like a good deal upfront, but can seriously cost you down the road – Positive Energy Solar recommends staying away from them. Look for a company that has a proven record of successful installations and has been around long enough to handle any issues that may occur down the road. Ask your neighbors, check out online reviews, and ask the solar company what certifications their sales and installers have (NABCEP is the gold standard).
About Positive Energy Solar
Since our formation in 1997, Positive Energy Solar’s mission has been to provide our community with the highest quality solar installation available, coupled with the best solar experience possible. As an employee-owned company, our reputation, trust, and commitment to the community has been our overarching goal; After all, we're your neighbors! We take pride in helping to improve our community, as well as protecting our planet’s environment and natural resources. We use best-in-class technology to ensure that the homeowners, businesses, and agencies we work with experience the best possible benefit and long-term value by going solar.