Wisconsin’s landscape holds a lot of potential for harnessing the power of the sun. As sustainability becomes increasingly important, the adoption of solar energy stands as a test of progress for both individuals and communities. From its economic advantages to its positive environmental impact, embracing solar energy in Wisconsin presents many compelling reasons. In this quick overview, we’ll delve into the top 10 reasons why Wisconsinites should seriously consider making the switch to solar power, illuminating the path toward a brighter, cleaner future for the our state.
1. Drastically reduce or even eliminate your electric bills
One of the largest reasons we see people go solar is to reduce or eliminate their electric bill. A monthly utility bill can be a large portion of monthly expenses for homeowners, businesses, and non-profits alike. Once a solar energy system is paid off (we will talk about ROI in the next section) you can generate free energy for the lifetime of your system. Even if you do not produce 100 percent of the energy you consume, solar will reduce your utility bills and you’ll still save a lot of money.
2. Earn a great return on your investment
Solar panels aren’t an expense – they’re one of the best ways to invest, with returns rivaling those of more traditional investments like stocks and bonds. Thanks to substantial electricity bill savings, the average American homeowner pays off their solar panel system in seven to eight years and sees an ROI of 20 percent or more.
3. Protect against rising energy costs
One of the most clear-cut benefits of solar panels is the ability to hedge utility prices. In the past ten years, residential electricity prices have gone up by an average of three percent annually. By investing in a solar energy system now, you can fix your electricity rate and protect against unpredictable increases in electricity costs. If you are a business or homeowner with fluctuating cash flow, going solar also helps you better forecast and manage your expenses.
4. Increase your property value
Multiple studies have found that homes equipped with solar energy systems have higher property values and sell more quickly than non-solar homes. Appraisers are increasingly taking solar installations into consideration as they value homes at the time of a sale, and as homebuyers become more educated about solar, demand for properties equipped with solar panel systems will continue to grow.
5. Boost U.S. energy independence
The sun is a near-infinite source of energy and a key component of achieving energy independence in the United States. By increasing our capacity to generate electricity from the sun, we can also insulate our country from price fluctuations in global energy markets.
6. Create jobs and help your local economy
According to The Solar Foundation, the solar industry adds jobs many times faster than the overall U.S. economy. This growth is expected to continue. Because solar-related jobs tend to be higher paying and cannot be outsourced, they are a significant contributor to the U.S. economy.
7. Protect the environment
Solar is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Buildings are responsible for 38 percent of all carbon emissions in the U.S. and going solar can significantly decrease that number. A typical residential solar panel system will eliminate three to four tons of carbon emissions each year—the equivalent of planting over 100 trees annually.
8. Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability
Sustainability and corporate social responsibilities are important components of an organization’s culture and values. They also produce bottom-line results. Increasingly, consumers and communities are recognizing and rewarding businesses that choose to operate responsibly. Businesses are finding that “green” credentials are a powerful driver of consumer purchasing decisions, creating goodwill, and improving business results.
9. Increase employee morale
Just like consumers, employees have a demonstrated appreciation for their employers’ commitment to operating responsibility. Employees share in the success and contributions of their organizations. Companies that care about their community and environment tend to have lower turnover rates, more engaged employees, and higher levels of morale.
10. Stay competitive
Companies quickly are realizing the social and economic benefits of adopting solar power. As early adopters pull ahead of the competition, many companies are exploring solar power as a way to keep up.
Interested in solar for your home or business? Our energy experts are here to assist you, contact us today to get started!
In the meantime, read what our clients think of us on our testimonial page.
