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4 Reasons Why Solar Is the Fastest-Growing Energy Source in The U.S.

In the year 2021, solar energy consisted of over 20% of generated electricity in America. It seemed like not too long ago that you would only find solar panels on a select few homes in the neighborhood. So, what has caused solar energy to become rapidly popular in the past couple of years? Solar Bear Dallas is here with the main reasons why solar is the fastest-growing energy source in the US.

Solar Setups Are Becoming More Affordable

One of the main reasons why homeowners didn’t consider buying solar panels just a few years ago was due to the high cost. In 2010, solar energy was roughly $7.50 per watt for residential use. Just last year in 2021, the price of residential solar energy was as low as $2.60 per watt! This significant drop in price allowed solar panels to become accessible to a greater range of homeowners, which is one of the main reasons for their popularity in the United States today. As we continue moving forward into an eco-friendlier future, the affordability of solar panels will likely increase, meaning that even more people will use solar.

There Are Many Incentives for Going Solar

Many companies and government organizations want to make a push for solar because it’s better for both the environment and the economy. In order to encourage more homes to equip solar panel setups, they are offering an array of incentives to help you save money on the cost of installation. The most popular and rewarding incentive is the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which can cover up to 30% of your solar installation cost. This is provided on a federal scale, and as such, is available to many Americans.

The Demand for Clean Electricity Is Rising

After many decades of using fossil fuels, the consequences are finally starting to catch up to us. Coal, petroleum, and other natural gasses come in a finite supply that could run out as soon as 2060. Since we are starting to see the end of traditional gas, many individuals are beginning to prepare for the inevitable by purchasing vehicles and appliances that run on alternative energy such as solar.

Solar Energy Combats Increasing Utility Costs

In areas with hot climates such as Florida, California, and Texas, the cost of utility bills is at an all-time high. It’s nearly impossible not to use so much electricity when faced with triple-digit weather, but solar energy can help make up for that extra energy usage. On average, solar panel owners see energy savings of around 40-80% a month even with a smaller customized setup.

Get a Head Start on Solar Energy With Solar Bear Dallas!

It is now easier than ever for Texans to take part in the nationwide transition to clean solar energy for a brighter future. Solar Bear Dallas offers affordable pricing and flexible financing options so you can equip your home with renewable energy to last a lifetime. Call us today at (727) 471-7442 for a free estimate!

Can Solar Panels Be Custom-Designed to Fit My Energy Needs?

When most people hear about solar panel setups, they believe that it’s an all-or-nothing commitment. That couldn’t be any falser. Each and every home is built differently, and the unique way you use your energy is the reason why your electric bill is different from that of your next-door neighbor. Therefore, many solar companies will offer a more personal installation to fit your exact living situation. Find out how Solar Bear Houston can provide you with solar panels that are custom-designed to fit your energy needs.

Getting a Performance and Financial Analysis of Solar for Your Home

In order to find out how much energy you use and what your home is able to accommodate, a solar panel specialist will conduct a thorough analysis and identify energy leaks. They will then give you a personalized recommendation based on the amount of remaining energy. A customized solar panel setup will be able to cover the amount of excess energy and save you around 40-80% on your monthly electric bill, all without needing to commit to a full solar setup.

Personalized Recommendations from Your Solar Expert

Receiving a completely personalized solar panel recommendation involves many factors such for the most optimal usage proven by solid results and guaranteed satisfaction. A few examples of things your solar expert will factor into your customized solar recommendation include:

• How Much Energy Do You Use Daily?

 This includes some things that we don’t regularly think about which take up a great deal of energy, such as refrigerators that run nonstop or using a lot of hot water. But perhaps the worst culprit is your air conditioner which constantly powers on and off throughout the day. T

• Which Type of Roof Do You Have?

The type of roof your home has, and the way it’s angled, also have a role in how much solar energy your home will be able to gather.

Your recommendation will involve the size and number of solar panels you will need. Once you agree to your recommendation, a site surveyor will come down to your house to figure out the next course of action.

What Does a Solar Site Surveyor Do?

Within 48 hours of accepting your personalized recommendation, a site surveyor will come over to evaluate the scope of the project and inspect your roof to make sure that it’s in a good enough condition to support a solar panel setup. Any obstructions that would block any sunlight from reaching your solar panels will be taken into account and handled accordingly. And of course, you can always feel free to ask the site surveyor any questions you may have regarding the installation. This incredible attention to detail is all part of providing you with custom-designed solar panels for your personal energy needs!

Get Started on Your Personal Home Solar Setup!

At Solar Bear Houston, we do all of the above and more, in order to give you a personalized solar panel experience that feels instantly rewarding. We do our best to schedule around what’s convenient for you, and we take care of the extra details, such as handling your permit process and setting up your phone app, so all you have to do is sit back and relax! Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to get started.

The Ultimate Guide to Hybrid Solar Panels

If you are interested in installing solar in your home or business, you might have heard the term “hybrid solar panels” during your research. What does that mean? Well, it essentially means that when you have a hybrid system it allows you to source energy from the grid if your panels don’t generate enough electricity to power your home.

Our solar pros explain more below!

What is a Hybrid Solar Panel System?

A hybrid solar system has all the benefits of a traditional solar panel system, but it has the added benefit of being connected to the grid. Having access to the electrical grid, a solar battery, and your solar panels means that you won’t have to rely on just one energy source.

Further, hybrid solar panel systems aren’t as expensive as you may think. They can save you money in the long run if your city takes part in a net metering program.

Advantages of a hybrid solar system:

• Greater value
• Electricity flow is maintained even during a blackout
• Reduces reliance on the grid
• Can connect to the grid at night or during cloudy weather

Is a Hybrid Solar System Right for You?

Deciding to install solar panels in your home or business can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, that’s what Solar Bear Orlando is here for. We will help you during the entire process!

Solar is great if you want to:

• Utilize renewable energy
• Decrease your energy bill
• No longer rely solely on the grid
• Sell back extra solar-generated electricity to your utility company

If this sounds great to you, a hybrid system may be the right choice for you.

Remember, if it is nighttime, overcast, or there is bad weather, your panels won’t be able to convert solar energy into electricity. This is where a hybrid system is beneficial! You can still power your home or business with the electrical grid at night or during overcast days.

How Hybrid Solar Panels are Different

An off-grid solar system and a hybrid system work the same way; they both convert solar energy into DC power through the photovoltaic (PV) effect.

This DC power is then stored in a solar battery or runs to a solar inverter where it is converted to AC power, ready to power your home and appliances.

Both options will cut down on your utility costs, and they both have their benefits. But, if you live in the city of Orlando, you will need to have a grid-tied or hybrid solar system if you plan to go solar.

The Reliability of Hybrid Systems

You will use less electricity with a hybrid solar system, and you will have access to the grid if you need it. While today’s highly-efficient solar panels will maximize the amount of energy that you can produce in a day, a hybrid solar system gives you access to power on the days when the sun isn’t shining.

Also, you can store/sell back your excess energy to further lower your utility costs. If you were completely off-grid, you would not have this option.

The Bottom Line

Hybrid solar systems are becoming the new standard for modern homeowners who want to go green and save big on their electricity bills. Hybrid solar systems give you the best of both worlds—access to solar energy and the grid—making them a solid investment.

Go Solar with Solar Bear Orlando

Ready to install a hybrid solar system at your Orlando or Central Florida home or business? Our team can help you decide which solar system is right for your needs and energy goals.

Call Solar Bear Orlando to schedule a solar installation consultation today; (727) 471-7442!

Are Solar Panels Actually Worth It? 5 Things to Know So You Can Decide

The idea of saving money with solar panels is enticing, but are they actually worth it? If you live in Texas, you’ll discover that you are in the best position to invest in solar panels! Before you call the experts at Solar Bear Dallas, here are 5 things to know so you can decide whether or not solar panels will be worth it for you:

1. The Payback Period for Solar Panels

Most people know that solar panels pay for themselves in time, but how much time will that take? While the national average is around 9-15 years, the states with the highest energy consumption rate tend to see a much shorter payback period of around 6 years. While Texans may not take pride in the fact that their home state falls within the top ten states that use the most energy in the country, this can work to your advantage as you’ll see the savings sooner rather than later.

2. Sun Exposure in Texas

When it comes to solar paneling, sun exposure is extremely important. Some states don’t get enough direct sunlight to warrant solar energy usage, but thankfully Texas is one of the few states that receive the most exposure to the sun year-round along with California and Florida. One additional note to keep in mind is the angle of your roof. Even if you live in a state with plenty of sunlight, it won’t matter if your roof isn’t angled in a way to catch the UV rays.

3. Federal, State, and Local Incentives

While Texans can already experience a shorter payback period compared to other states, you can also receive incentives for your solar panels. These incentives can come from a federal, state, or local source and many of them are substantial. One of the more popular programs is the federal solar tax credit. This is also referred to as the Clean Energy Credit which can cover up to 30% of the installation cost which is an incredible deal! For information on more incentives, you can always consult your local solar panel experts.

4. Texas’ Role in the Environment

As mentioned earlier, Texas happens to be one of the top states with the highest energy usage in the country. Many Texans are working to fix that problem by installing solar panels, and you can help the cause by equipping your own home with the ability to gather solar energy. Once the state starts seeing a noticeable change, you can take pride in the fact that you had a hand in making your home state a nicer place to live.

5. Affordability and Accessibility

If you’re worried about not being able to afford solar panels, you’ll be glad to know that the cost of solar panels has dropped tremendously over the past few years. And if you go to the right people, you can find affordable pricing with flexible financing options.

The Best Solar Panels in Texas

The experts at Solar Bear Dallas want a clean and bright future for all of Texas which is why we offer the best solar panels with the most affordable pricing. We have many financing options available so you can pay in a way that’s easiest for you. Give us a call at (727) 471-7442 for a free quote!