Solar Energy During the Holidays

Solar Energy During the Holidays

by | Nov 25, 2020 | Uncategorized

The Advantages of Solar Energy During the Holiday Season

The leaves are falling, the decorations are being pulled out of the attic, and the department stores are already decked out in their winter wonderland finery. But what’s the best part of the holidays? Going solar! There has never been a better time to convert to solar energy, especially with the increased electricity needs of the season — not to mention the federal tax credit of 26% based on the cost of your system that drops to 22% in 2021. After all, this time of year is all about giving, so why not give yourself the gift of clean energy?

With this time of year comes lots of Christmas lights, kitchens working round the clock, prolonged store hours, and more. All of these additional energy needs tend to turn utility bills into a nightmare, putting quite a bit of a damper on your holiday spirit. That’s where solar panels come in to help. 

We’ve already covered all of the great benefits you’ll reap by producing your own energy, but did you know there’s even more advantages of solar energy during the holiday season? In this blog, we’ll take a look at all of the reasons why renewable energy makes sense this time of year, and how you can start your own solar journey! 

Why You Should Convert to Solar Energy for the Holidays

You might have asked yourself already, “Is fall/winter really the best time to go solar?” While we may not be getting as much sunlight as we do in the summertime, we’re still using plenty of energy! There are many reasons why converting to solar energy during the holiday season is going to help you save money. 

Picture this: you’re preparing for a Thanksgiving meal to feed your entire family, your aunts and uncles are crowded into your guest bedrooms, and the chill that’s set into the air has brought with it the need to crank the heat in your house. Does any of that sound familiar? Because of the increasing amount of energy to accommodate the holiday fanfare, your utility bills are going to be skyrocketing for the next couple of months. That is, unless you have a solar system installed! 

Thanks to solar panels, you can easily power all of the appliances being used in your kitchen to cook those large holiday feasts, alleviate your electricity bills that have increased because of the extra people in your household, and help you keep those heating costs down when it gets cold out. 

Phew! Thanksgiving is finally over and the relatives have gone home, the kitchen is out of business until further notice, and you’re getting used to the colder weather. Just when you think things are going to settle down: Christmas! 

Solar Energy and Christmas Lights

If you’re someone who loves to go all out with the holiday decorations, you should definitely consider going solar. According to the Washington Post, a strand of 25 C9 lights will average about $15.12 added to your electric bill, assuming they run 12 hours a day for about 45 days, since some people put them up before December or leave them up until January! So what, $15.12 doesn’t sound like that big of a deal, right? Remember — that’s only one strand. If you’re looking to really deck the halls, you’re going to be using more than one strand of these lights, and even the smaller bulbs will end up costing you about $3.50 per strand. Either way, the addition of Christmas lights to your home is going to put a dent in your utility bill! 

With solar, customers in the Carolinas can expect to save an average of $83.25 per month, greatly alleviating the strain on your electricity bill and reliance on the utility company. With the increased need for electricity this time of year to power all of our favorite things, solar energy during the holiday season is a lifesaver! 

The Federal Solar Tax Incentive

Thanks to an initiative by Congress, the 26% federal solar tax incentive has been extended through the end of 2022, giving you two more years to install solar and take advantage of the credit. Previously, it was intended to drop to 22% in 2021, but the push for clean energy in this country gave Congress reason to extend the deadline for the 26% incentive, which is a huge win for both residential and commercial customers who are looking to go solar. 

Going Solar with Renu Energy Solutions

Since 2010, Renu has helped over 3,000 residential and commercial properties adopt clean, renewable energy with solar systems. We value our customers and their time, so providing them with the best service possible is at the forefront of our minds. 
While the holiday season can be a stressful time of year for some, our team at Renu Energy Solutions can guarantee a smooth transition into solar energy. If you’re ready to convert to solar and begin saving, give us a call or book a free consultation online. Our energy consultants are experts in helping you save money and energy and would be happy to guide you through your solar journey.

Tesla Powerwall FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Tesla Powerwall FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

by | Nov 23, 2020 | Uncategorized

Tesla Powerwall FAQ 

Because we are proud installers of this energy storage system, we thought it would be helpful for our customers to put together a Tesla Powerwall FAQ. There are so many great benefits to installing a home battery backup system that many people don’t know about! In order to fully understand the benefits you could reap by owning a Tesla Powerwall, it’s important to actually know what it is, how it works, and what it can do for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Tesla Powerwall

  1. What is the Tesla Powerwall?

The Tesla Powerwall is a battery backup system that stores energy produced by solar panels so that your home may continue to have power even in the event of a grid outage. Paired with a solar system, it’s a way for homeowners to become energy independent because they produce and store their own energy, which is converted into electricity, thus powering their homes.

  1. Is the Powerwall truly off-grid?

Short answer: when paired with a solar panel system, you can operate without relying on the grid for electricity. The energy produced by the solar array is converted into electricity that is subsequently stored in the Powerwall battery, allowing you to become independent of utility companies when the grid is down. However, in the Carolinas, it can be difficult to completely disconnect from the grid for a house that is currently connected to it. 

  1. What are the environmental installation requirements?

Powerwall is built to withstand a wide range of temperatures (-4°F to 122°F), humidity, rain, and sun. It can be installed indoors or outdoors but should be placed away from potential flood areas or direct sunlight to prolong its lifespan. At extreme temperatures, it may operate at less than its full potential, so if you live in an area on either end of that spectrum, you should install the Powerwall inside. 

This is especially handy for those in the Carolinas who know that we experience both very hot summers and cold winters, along with an active hurricane season that brings strong winds, rain, and debris.

  1. Can Powerwall charge from the grid if necessary?

In the event that you are not producing enough energy from solar panels due to prolonged periods without sunlight, the Powerwall unit is able to charge from the grid. 

  1. Do you need a solar system for the Powerwall to work?

The Powerwall can work independently from a solar system if it’s connected to the grid. In the event that the grid is down for a prolonged period of time, the Powerwall unit would not be able to charge without a solar system. To take full advantage of your Powerwall battery, we recommend pairing it with solar panels to decrease both your dependence on utility companies and reduce your energy bills. Utilizing the sun’s energy will save you money in the long run!

  1. Can the Powerwall be installed if I already have a solar system, or do I need a new one?

The Tesla Powerwall can be installed with existing solar systems! The Tesla Powerwall is an AC coupled storage solution so it is compatible with almost all inverters on the market today. Whether you got your system from Renu or another solar installer, we’d be happy to provide you with the addition of the Powerall. If you don’t currently have a solar system installed, we’d be happy to help you with that, too! For more information on going solar, book a free consultation today. 

  1. Can the Powerwall be installed if I already have a battery backup system?

Unfortunately, the Powerwall does not currently work with existing battery systems. Fortunately, Tesla is always updating their systems and equipment to better accommodate customers and work toward improving their technology. We are hopeful that this will be a possibility in the near future. 

  1. How many solar panels do I need to charge a Tesla Powerwall?

You can technically charge the battery with just one solar panel. However, we don’t recommend this, as it would take much longer than if you had a full array of panels. This is all dependent on how much energy you’re consuming and what you want to get out of your Powerwall! Smaller homes may work well with just a few panels, whereas larger homes may need to install more. Minimum AC system size is 3.8 kW for 1 powerwall unit. Maximum AC system size for 1 Powerwall unit is 7.6 kW. 

  1. Does the Tesla Powerwall require an internet connection?

The Powerwall itself does not need the internet to store energy, but if you’d like to connect the app to the system to easily monitor the energy production and consumption, you will need a stable internet connection. 

  1. How many Powerwalls do I need?

This depends on how much energy you are wanting to store or how much of your home you’d like to power. For those who are just looking to reduce their energy dependence on the grid, one Powerwall should suffice. However, if you’re interested in powering your entire home, we recommend installing two or three, depending on the size of the home and its energy needs.

Installing with Renu 

Renu Energy Solutions is a proudly certified Tesla Powerwall installer, and with over 600 kW of energy storage installed so far, our trained energy advisors and electricians can help you find the right Tesla Powerwall solution for your home. If you’d like to learn more about Powerwall or you’re ready to convert to clean energy with a battery backup system, give us a call today or book a free consultation. We’d be happy to guide you through the process of installing the Tesla Powerwall from start to finish and are equipped with the knowledge and skill to maintain your system should you have any questions in the future. 

What Are Commercial Solar Tax Incentives?

What Are Commercial Solar Tax Incentives?

by | Nov 13, 2020 | Commericial, Uncategorized

 

Everything You Should Know About Commercial the Solar Tax Credit

If you’re considering installing a solar system, one of the most important aspects that will help you make the decision is the federal solar tax credit. This credit has helped thousands of businesses across the country make the jump to renewable energy and save money on utility costs, and yours could be next! 

For businesses that are planning to incorporate solar into their facilities in the future, one thing is for certain – the time is now.

For those interested in going solar but aren’t quite sure what this credit is, you’ve come to the right place! Before you can apply for the solar tax credit, you should understand exactly what it means for you as a business owner. 

What exactly is the Solar Tax Credit? 

Initially introduced in 2005 by the Energy Policy Act, the federal investment tax credit (ITC) was a bill passed by Congress and later extended multiple times. The purpose of this bill was to make it easier for both home and business owners to purchase solar systems and invest in renewable energy. As the cost of solar drops, it becomes more accessible for everyone to convert, saving them money on utility bills and reducing their carbon footprint in the process. 

The federal solar tax credit is not the same as a tax deduction — it’s used as a way to reduce your owed taxes to the IRS, not deduct from your income. As long as you or your company purchased your solar system (as in, you don’t lease the system, you own it yourself), and you pay federal taxes, you are eligible for the solar tax credit.   

To calculate how much you will receive, you can multiply the cost of your solar system by 26%, the current credit percentage. For example, if your system costs $10,000, you would use the equation $10,000 x 26% to determine that your solar tax credit equals $2,600. In addition to saving you money with a tax credit, your solar investment will continue to help you reduce utility costs and energy output. 

To learn more about all of the ways solar can help, check out our blog “Benefits of Solar.”

When Should I Install a Solar System to Qualify for this Credit?

 Previously, the tax credit had intended to drop to 22% in 2021, but luckily for you, there’s still time to maximize your savings! 

Thanks to a new extension to the federal solar tax credit by Congress, customers can still quality for a 26% tax incentive through the end of 2022. Essentially, all projects that begin construction before 2023 will be able to claim this credit and save money on their solar systems. 

How Do I Claim the Solar Tax Credit?

You can claim this credit when you file for your yearly tax return. If you have an accountant to handle your finances, make sure to alert them that you’ve installed a solar system so they know to include that when filing your taxes. 

Are There Any Other Ways to Save Money on a Solar System?

In addition to the tax credit, solar is a depreciable asset under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). According to the Solar Energies Industries association, MACRS is a “method of depreciation in which a business’ investments in certain tangible property are recovered, for tax purposes, over a specified time period through annual deductions.” 

Most businesses are eligible for bonus depreciation and can take the full deduction in Year 1. Depending on a businesses’ federal tax rate, this is an extra 17% – 30% off the total cost of the system.

Finally, many businesses can qualify for state or utility rebates and incentives that improve a solar project’s ROI. In South Carolina, businesses can take a 25% state tax credit. North Carolina businesses served by Duke Energy may be eligible for the Duke Energy Solar Rebate.

How Solar Can Benefit Your Business

For businesses, solar gives you a sizable return on investment, meaning you’ll see your investment more than pay for itself in a short amount of time. Plus, the money you’ll save monthly that you’d normally be spending on your utility bills will be more than worth it! You can reduce your operating expenses while paying off your solar panels. 

In addition to being a sound investment, you will earn recognition within your community by showing your business’ commitment to the environment. 

Going Solar with Renu Energy Solutions 

With over 3,000 installations since 2010, Renu Energy Solutions is an expert in the solar industry. We specialize in both commercial and residential projects and are happy to help our customers on their solar journey from start to finish. Whether you’re just beginning to research your solar options or you’re ready to install a system tomorrow, Renu can assist you in your efforts to save both money and energy! If you’re interested in converting to clean, renewable energy, give us a call or email us for a free consultation. 
As businesses continue to push sustainability goals and initiatives in 2020 and beyond, savvy planning on the front end can end up saving thousands on a solar investment. If you think your business might be interested in solar, investigate now – thousands of dollars are on the table and January 1st is right around the corner!

Read More About Renu’s Commercial Solar here: 

 

Benefits of Ground Mounted Solar Panels

Benefits of Ground Mounted Solar Panels

by | Nov 10, 2020 | Renu Blog

Why Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Are a Great Investment

If you’ve ever considered converting to solar energy but don’t have any viable roof space, ground-mounted solar panels are an excellent alternative! Ground-mounted solar panels are exactly what they sound like: mounted on the ground as opposed to on a roof. This is a great option for those whose roofs are obstructed from sunlight or aren’t equipped to hold panels. 

Making the change to renewable energy is a no-brainer — the reduction utility costs and carbon footprints alone is enough to make anyone see the sense in it. Unfortunately, not every roof is capable of housing solar panels, which is why ground-mounted solar is such a great innovation. It has been the alternative option that people have turned to when roof-mounted panels haven’t panned out for them, creating more opportunities for everyone to go solar! 

In this blog, we’ll cover all the benefits of ground-mounted solar panels and how they can help you. 

Benefits of Ground-Mounted Solar Panels

Before you install solar panels on your property, you should know about all of the benefits you’ll be reaping.

1. They offer the perfect alignment with the sun, giving you maximum exposure. 

This is arguably the most attractive feature of ground-mounted solar panels, and the entire reason they even exist. For many homeowners, their roofs are shaded or otherwise obstructed from the sun’s view, rendering roof-mounted panels pretty useless. Because of this, ground-mounted solar panels became a sensible alternative; they can be placed directly facing the sun, wherever they are on your property, so that you get maximum sun exposure and maximum energy production. 

2. They can be placed anywhere on your property. 

Due to their flexibility in comparison to roof-mounted solar, ground-mounted solar panels can be placed anywhere on your property, they’re not just limited to one space. If you happen to have a strict HOA that restricts certain home improvements, this is the answer to your problem. You may not be able to alter the appearance of the front of your home or the roof, but you can place ground-mounted solar panels in the backyard or the side yard to fit with your neighborhood’s regulations. 

3. You have the potential to produce more energy. 

Because ground-mounted solar panels are not limited to the size of a roof, you can install larger arrays. With more panels, you’ll be able to produce more and more energy, further reducing your electricity bills. This is especially useful for large homes or businesses looking to rely solely on solar energy but can’t devote the roof space; as long as you have the room on your property, you can install as many solar panels as you see fit. 

Additionally, you will be able to add more panels in the future, should you decide you need more energy to power your home or business. Limited roof space may stop you from adding more in the future, but ground-mounted solar arrays can always be added to if there’s still room on the property. 

4. You don’t need to make changes to your home’s infrastructure. 

In some cases, weak roofing needs reinforcement before solar panels can be installed. Because installing solar panels requires drilling holes in the roof, it needs to be sturdy enough to withstand the changes to the infrastructure and the added weight. For those who don’t wish to make structural repairs, ground-mounted solar panels allow you to opt out. 

5. They are easy to maintain. 

Solar panels in general are a very low-maintenance investment, but to get the most energy production possible, you should make sure your panels are kept clean. Dust, dirt, and other debris can obstruct the photovoltaic cells within the panels from absorbing the sun’s rays, so washing them is much easier when they’re on the ground than when on top of a roof. 

How to Know if it’s Right for You

You may be wondering, “How do I know if ground-mounted solar panels are right for me?” as opposed to going with the more traditional roof panels. Many home and business owners have been able to utilize solar energy by choosing what fits them best, and we understand that no two projects are the same. What works for some might not work for others, but if any of these apply to you, you should consider solar on the ground:

  • You have large open spaces on your property that would allow you to add more panels later on if necessary
  • Your neighborhood has strict HOA regulations that won’t allow you to install panels on the roof or alter the appearance of your home 
  • Your roof is shaded or not facing the sun
  • You want to be able to adjust the placement of your panels when necessary
  • Your roof is older or damaged and you don’t want to reinforce it before installing roof-mounted panels

Converting to Solar Energy with Renu

If you’re interested in solar energy for your home or business but your roof isn’t suitable for panels, consider utilizing ground-mounted solar panels instead. This innovation has allowed thousands of customers all across the country to meet their energy needs without being restricted by their inadequate roofing space, HOA regulations, or obstructed views of the sun. 

Going solar is easier than ever with Renu Energy Solutions. Since 2010, we have installed over 3,000 residential and commercial solar projects in the Carolinas, making us industry experts. For more information on installing ground-mounted solar panels, set up a free consultation with one of our energy consultants. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about converting to renewable energy and how we can help you achieve energy independence!

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Benefits of Solar

Benefits of Solar

by | Oct 14, 2020 | Renu Blog

Benefits of Solar Energy Systems

There are many benefits of solar that far outweigh those of traditional energy sources like coal, oil, or natural gas — all of which have become more costly than renewable energy and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The greatest issue with these sources of energy is that they are limited; the Earth will eventually run out of its supply and we will be left with lasting damage to the environment. Solar, however, is a renewable energy source that will always replenish (as long as the Sun doesn’t go anywhere!)

If you’ve been considering converting to renewable energy and want to learn more about the benefits of solar systems, you’ve come to the right place. 

6 Benefits of Solar for Your Home or Business

There are several great reasons why you should think about installing a solar system for your home or business, and here are just a few of the benefits you’ll reap:

1. You will save money by reducing your utility bill.

Arguably the most attractive reason to go solar is to save money, and both homeowners and business owners who install solar panels will see a return on investment right away. Studies have shown that homes with solar panels save thousands of dollars for decades to come, as solar systems are built to last around 25 years. When going solar in North and South Carolina, duke energy homeowners save around $68 monthly in their first year.

2. There are incentives to assist with payment options.

One major player in solar energy is the Federal Solar Tax Credit. As of 2020, the Solar Tax Credit is 26% — meaning you would be getting 26% of your total solar system cost back.

Combined with other state incentives, such as the South Carolina Solar Tax Incentives of 25%, homeowners in the Carolinas can save up to 51% in tax credits, making solar systems financially accessible for thousands of potential customers. 

3. You will make a positive impact on the environment.

We understand that the majority of homeowners choose to go solar because it makes sense from a financial standpoint, but there are many benefits of solar for the environment, too.

Traditional energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas are causing damage to our air, water, and ecosystems as the burning of fossil fuels pollutes our atmosphere. In addition to contributing to pollution when actually burned, these sources cause damage to the environment when they are harnessed; coal mining and oil drilling and fracking have had untold negative effects on the communities and ecosystems near their sites. To top it all off, all of these energy sources are nonrenewable, meaning that eventually we’ll run out anyway. 

With renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and water, there is little to no pollution, and the sources never deplete. You’ll be able to power your home or business knowing that you are making a commitment to protecting your local environment and becoming an example for others in your community looking to make the change as well. The office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy released a study explaining the benefits of Wind and Solar Power in regards to Climate and Air Quality. 

4. You can reduce your reliance on utility energy.

Another great benefit of solar is that you don’t have to rely on utility companies or the grid for your energy. By creating energy independence, you are breaking free from unpredictable utility bills and taking control of your energy. In addition to the personal benefits of reducing reliance on utility companies, becoming energy independent also helps reduce petroleum imports from foreign energy providers.

For more information on energy independence and not relying on the grid, check out our blog “Benefits of a Solar Battery Backup System.”

5. There are relatively low maintenance costs.

Besides keeping the panels clean, going solar requires very little maintenance for the homeowner, allowing you to enjoy the perks of their system without worrying about upkeep. 

6. Solar panels increase the value of your home. 

Not only will going solar save you money on utility costs, you will also see this investment pay for itself when you’re ready to sell your home. In fact, a recent study done by Berkeley Lab found that people were willing to pay an extra $15,000 for homes that include mid-sized solar arrays! Solar panels are an attractive feature that potential homebuyers will love to see, as they can look forward to their own monthly savings, too. 

Become Energy Independent with Renu Energy Solutions!

There are so many benefits of solar that make it a no-brainer to leave traditional energy sources in the past! At Renu, we understand that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to reducing your utility and electric bills, so we will work with each and every customer to find a solution that’s best for them. We are here today because of our commitment to our customers, communities, and our passion for bringing energy independence to the Carolinas.

If you’re ready to go solar, give us a call for a free consultation. We’re always happy to help answer any questions you may have and guide you through this process from start to finish!

This blog was originally published on June 23, 2015 and refreshed on October 14, 2020.

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