Understanding the Benefits of Net Metering for Homeowners.
One of the many benefits for homeowners of installing a solar panel system at their home is net metering, which gives solar customers retail price credits on excess energy produced by their solar systems that is sent back to the grid. In essence, net metering works much like a solar battery would, as excess energy can be stored in the grid “bank” and pulled back off the grid for use in times when your solar system isn’t producing enough energy, or at night, when your solar system can’t produce any.
There are some power companies that don’t offer net metering at all, as these companies argue that solar customers are not paying their fair share of costs to maintain the grid, yet still have the access to it. Then there are other power companies and their interests that have sought or are seeking to reduce the value of solar with this premise in mind.
Renewable Energy Benefits: Net metering credits homeowners for excess solar energy.
Consultation & Planning: We guide you in optimizing your solar system for net metering.
Save Money on Energy: Earn credits for surplus energy, reducing future energy costs.
A smarter, more sustainable way to invest in your property
Take advantage of the Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) and invest your tax dollars into your own home. Instead of paying taxes to the government, you can use the tax credit to reduce the cost of installing a solar energy system.
Illinois’ Adjustable Block Program (SREC)
The Adjustable Block Program (commonly referred to as SREC) opened for applications on January 31, 2019. Although program capacity for new project applications has been filled, Distributed Generation and Community Solar projects are still accepting applications, now placed on waitlists.
Subscriptions to Community Solar projects remain open. This program is managed by the Illinois Power Agency through its third-party administrator, InClime.
For more details, check the program status on the Program Dashboard, or refer to Chapters 6 and 7 of the Illinois Power Agency’s Revised Long-Term Renewable Resources Procurement Plan.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How much does solar cost?
A typical residential system is financed for about the same monthly payment as you currently pay for electricity. The cash prices range anywhere from about $12,000 to well over $100,000. Prices vary widely because of installation type, system options, and system size.
Q: How long does it take to get a return on my investment?
Saving money on day one isn’t uncommon, but most GRID customers see savings in less than 3 years when financing a system. Also remember that there is ZERO return on your electric bill that you have to pay forever. When you buy solar from GRID, you’ll have a payoff date and can pay off the system as early as you like without penalties, and it costs a whole lot less.
Q: Speaking of financing, how does that work?
Financing solar with GRID is easy. Our lenders require a minimum credit score of 600. We have LOTS of term options ranging from 12 years at 0% to 25 years at 1.98%.
Q: How long do solar panels last?
Our solar panels and inverters have a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and generally last much longer than that.
Q: Do solar panels hold up to weather?
Solar panels withstand hail and wind better than asphalt shingles. Our systems are tough!
Q: How does the tax credit work?
At the time of this writing (01/08/2022), the federal tax credit is 26% of the total cost of your solar project. This can include a new roof and/or stand-by batteries as long as they cost no more than 35% of the total solar project price. To qualify for the tax credit, you must own your home, have solar installed, and pay federal income tax. Please see the IRS website for more current information here.
Q: Will the lender put a lien on my home?
The lien is not technically on your home, but the solar equipment with the lien is permanently installed on your property. This generally only matters when you sell your property, and even then, the new homeowner can get approved for the same loan or even roll it into their mortgage. The great thing about this is that every payment you make while owning the system lowers the principal amount. So, while your neighbors’ electric bill goes up every year, yours stays the same. This means a prospective buyer will pay way less in monthly bills compared to a home without solar at all. That’s why homes with solar sell for around 4.1% more than homes without! Find more info here.
Q: If solar increases my home value, that will increase my property taxes, right?
In most states, including Illinois and Missouri, there is a property tax exemption for having solar installed on your home. Additionally, around half of all states have a sales tax exemption for solar products as well! Find more info here.