The many benefits of going solar for your home or business
There are many reasons to go solar, for both homeowners and business. However, saving money and improving the environment are the most common reasons to go solar. Many people know that solar is a great home or business efficiency upgrade. Similarly, people are eager to reduce their carbon footprint while also improving their property’s value.
Whether your reasons to go solar are economic, environmental, or personal, this list outlines the main benefits:
- Reduce or eliminate your electricity bills
Whether you’re a homeowner, business, or nonprofit, electricity costs probably make up a large portion of your monthly expenses. A solar panel system will enable you to generate power for your system’s entire 20 – 25 year life cycle. Even if you don’t produce 100% of the energy you use, solar will reduce your utility bills. Plus, you’ll save a lot of money.
- Make a good return on investment
Solar panels should not be viewed as an expense. One of the top reasons to go solar is that solar panels are an investment. In fact, the returns on solar projects rivals those of some traditional investments. Thanks to substantial electricity bill savings, the average homeowner pays off their solar panel system in five to seven years. Additionally, the return on investment can be 20% or more.
- Protect against rising energy costs
One of the most popular reasons to go solar is the ability to plan your expenses and reduce your vulnerability to price hikes. In the past decade, electricity prices have increased tremendously. By investing in a solar energy system, you can protect against unpredictable price increases. If you’re a business or a homeowner with fluctuating cash flow, going solar also helps you forecast more accurately and manage your expenses.
- Increase your property value
Multiple studies have found that homes and businesses equipped with solar energy systems have higher resale values. Moreover, they sell more quickly than non-solar properties. Estate agents are increasingly taking solar installations into account when they do valuations on properties. The more buyers become educated about solar, the more demand for properties with solar systems will increase.
- Increase your independence
South Africa’s load-shedding issues are disruptive to both business and everyday life. Becoming independent is one of the best reasons to go solar. Firstly, you will be able to continue doing what you need to. Secondly, your productivity will increase compared to your competitors. Furthermore, you will protect your appliances from dangerous surges.
- Protect the environment
Solar is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint. Buildings are responsible for 35 – 40% of carbon emissions in many countries. Going solar can significantly decrease global carbon emissions. A typical residential solar panel system will eliminate three to four tons of carbon emissions each year. This is the equivalent of planting over 100 trees annually.
- Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability
Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are important components of an organization’s culture and values. In addition to being sound reasons to go solar, CSR initiatives also produce bottom line results. Increasingly, consumers and communities are recognizing and rewarding businesses that choose to operate responsibly. “Green” credentials are a powerful driver of consumer purchasing decisions, creating goodwill and improving business results.
- Create jobs and support your local economy
The solar industry is outperforming many others. It is made up of hard-working people who believe in the potential of renewable energy. This growth is expected to continue. Supporting the local economy is one of the most popular reasons to go solar.
With Africa’s sunny climate and a vibrant, competitive solar industry, there are umpteen reasons to go solar. Whatever your motivation is, solar provides a win-win solution for homes and businesses. Be part of the solar revolution today.
