Start the New Year Right with Solar Savings

The new year is a perfect time to set fresh goals and make impactful decisions for your home and finances. If you’ve been on the fence about solar panels, now is the time to explore how they can transform your energy costs. Perhaps you have friends or family saving thousands each year with solar, others that have had mixed experiences with not installing enough solar panels, regret not getting a battery or had their company go out of business, we’re here to help you navigate the right way to go solar and start saving.

If your electricity bill feels like a monthly battle, it’s time to take action. While installing solar is one of the most effective ways to reduce your utility costs, there are also several steps you can take to lower your bills even before you make the switch.

Energy-Saving Tips Before Going Solar

1. Thermostat Adjustments

Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of your energy usage. Investing in a programmable thermostat allows you to optimize your home’s temperature settings, ensuring you’re not overusing your HVAC system. Smart thermostats can also help you monitor and adjust temperatures remotely, maximizing efficiency and savings.

2. Door and Window Insulation

Drafty doors and windows can cause air to escape, forcing your heater or air conditioner to work overtime. Inspect seals and insulation around windows and doors, and consider replacing old or damaged ones. Proper insulation reduces energy waste and helps keep your home comfortable year-round.

3. Efficient Appliances and Lighting

Switching to energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting can also make a big difference. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified appliances and use smart power strips to minimize phantom energy use from devices left plugged in.

4. Seal Air Leaks

Beyond doors and windows, air leaks can occur in less obvious places such as attics, basements, or electrical outlets. Conduct an energy audit to identify areas where air may be escaping and seal those gaps with caulk or weather stripping. This small investment can lead to big savings over time.

5. Maximize Natural Light

Take advantage of natural daylight to reduce your reliance on artificial lighting. Open blinds and curtains during the day, and consider installing skylights or solar tubes to brighten your home without increasing energy use.

6. Solar Water Heating

A solar water heater can be a great companion to your solar system. It’s a cost-effective way to heat water using the sun’s energy, further reducing your dependence on traditional utilities.

Why Solar is the Ultimate Solution

While these tips help lower your bills, going solar is the ultimate way to take control of your energy costs. Solar paired with a battery not only reduces your reliance on the grid but also provides peace of mind during peak power usage. 

Why who you choose to install your system matters. 

In an industry where 80% of companies fold within two years, who you choose to install your solar matters.

• Friendly, Knowledgeable Consultants:  You want to vet the company and speak with your sales person in depth about your current challenges and ask questions to make sure you’re happy with your sales consultant and the time and energy they are giving you during the process. This helps you make an informed decision.

• Top-Tier Equipment: You want someone who uses the best equipment from trusted brands like Q-Cells, LG, SolarEdge and more, ensuring decades of reliable solar power.

• Fast Installation: From design to interconnection, the company you choose should have a streamlined process. This makes sure your system is up and running quickly, often in just a few weeks from the time you sign the paperwork.

• Award-Winning Workmanship: Ask to see photos of other clients that have been installed. Check out their website for photos and videos to make sure it is clean work going on your home. 

• Flexible Financing: Ask about different options to pay for your system to ensure you are choosing the right option that fits with your financials. That could be cash, financing or more. The company should work with enough agencies to guarantee you the lowest price and best rate at that time. 

• Unmatched Value: You want to be sure that the value of your system and the company you work with will be the right fit for your needs. Don’t just let someone throw information at you and not let you ask questions. The right company will take the time to make sure you understand all components and answer any questions you have before moving to the next steps. 

  
  

Additional Ways to Save with Solar

1. Monitor Your Energy Usage

Once the solar has been installed, monitoring your energy usage is key to maximizing savings. The new solar technology includes apps or online dashboards that show how much energy your panels are producing and how much you’re consuming. This data can help you make informed decisions about when to use high-energy appliances.

2. Time-of-Use Optimization

If your utility company has time-of-use rates, you can save even more by shifting your energy use to off-peak hours. For example, running your dishwasher or laundry during the evening can reduce your reliance on grid power during expensive peak times.

3. Battery Storage and or Battery Backup

Pairing your solar panels with a battery storage system allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night and pairing it with a battery backup system can keep the lights on during outages. This not only provides energy independence but also helps you avoid costly peak rates.

4. Take Advantage of Tax Incentives

The federal government offers a solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows you to deduct a percentage of your solar installation costs from your taxes. Many states and local governments also provide additional incentives. Be sure to act soon to maximize these benefits while they last.

5. Consider Solar for Electric Vehicles

If you own or are considering an electric vehicle (EV), solar power can significantly lower your charging costs if you charge your car at home. Charging your EV with solar energy is not only more sustainable but also far cheaper than paying for gas or using a charging station.

Why Choose Solar Now?

The start of a new year comes with new opportunities, federal tax credits for solar installations. By going solar now, you can take advantage of the 2025 tax incentives, save money, reduce your energy costs, and increase your home’s value. Don’t wait until rates rise or incentives diminish—make the switch today and enjoy long-term savings.

Start the New Year Right with Solar Savings

Let Planet Solar Guide You

At Planet Solar, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve energy independence. Whether you’re curious about solar, battery storage or battery backup systems we’ve got you covered. Our team provides real answers to your questions, so you can make informed decisions.

Call us at (800) 859-7652 or fill out our online form to learn more. Start 2025 with a resolution you won’t regret—lower energy bills and a greener future with Planet Solar!