With a new Administration in Washington, D.C., the future of solar energy can seem uncertain. While there are some efforts underway to reduce access to certain forms of renewables in favor of fossil fuel-based energy, it’s important to ask what this new environment means for homeowners interested in solar energy.
First and foremost, it calls for everyone in the solar industry to be smart and steady. If you’re interested in solar for your home, now is the time to learn more about the options for installing a residential solar energy system. The cost savings will long outlast the political winds of the moment.
There is also some worry about federal solar tax credits passed by the Inflation Reduction Act being phased out. This law, which provides a 30% tax credit for installing residential solar panels and an extra 10% credit for buying American-made solar panels on commercial solar projects, has proven very popular with consumers and businesses.
In 2023, about 752,300 American households claimed the tax credit for solar panels and 48,840 claimed the tax credit for backup storage, according to CNET. Those households are also home to voters and constituents of states across the country, red and blue.
Members of Congress representing districts where these tax credits are popular will have a hard time pushing to have them repealed. Many of these same districts are also hosting new solar manufacturing plants, a boon to local jobs and economies.
Given the current level of uncertainty, homeowners should consult with proven solar professionals who can take them through the process step-by-step to learn how to optimize the value of a solar installation or battery backup in the near term.
The Financial Benefits of Residential Solar Incentives
According to EnergySage, the average 5-kilowatt residential solar panel system in Texas costs $10,517. If you factor in the 30% federal tax credit, the cost drops to $7,362. All solar batteries above 3 kilowatts in size are also eligible for the 30% tax credit.
In addition, local utilities may offer solar energy rebates of up to $3,000, EnergySage says. Also, if you use solar energy as a power source in Texas, you don’t need to pay property taxes on the value that solar panels add to your home.
Reduce Your Dependence on Fossil-based Energy Sources
Advocates for solar energy in the U.S. are forging ahead, in spite of any Administrative chaos.
“Solar, now a $60 billion industry, is adding more new capacity to the U.S. grid than any other fuel source amid the largest increase in electricity demand since World War II. It’s clear that we will not reach President Trump’s vision for American energy dominance or technological innovation without continued solar and energy storage growth,” said Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association.
To decrease your reliance on fossil fuels and take advantage of solar incentives before they potentially disappear, it’s time to explore your options.
Finding a partner you can trust
As you’re contemplating residential solar power and backup batteries, you don’t want to feel rushed. And you want to put your trust in a company with a solid track record.
Longhorn Solar is a trustworthy provider of solar panels and backup batteries. We’ve been in business for 15 years, and we believe in a consultative sales process — one that focuses on the ideal solar solution for your home.
While many solar companies have come and gone in the past 15 years, Longhorn Solar remains alive and continues to thrive. Based on our in-depth experience and our customer-friendly business philosophy, we’re well-equipped to engage in an honest conversation with you about meeting your solar energy needs.
Ready to add solar panels and battery backup to your home? Get a free no-hassle quote today from Longhorn Solar.
