Solar energy use has gone up about 20 percent each year for the last decade and a half, and thousands of homeowners are flipping the switch on the electric company.
Why?
Because going solar can actually make you money—and it makes you less dependent on (or independent of) major power grids during emergencies. Sure, there are environmental benefits: a moderate solar energy system that could power a small home offsets as much pollution as planting a half-acre of trees. 
Solar Power: A Long-Term Investment
Recent studies have shown that adding solar panels increase a home’s value by about 3.5 percent. But what if you’re in your dream home and you’re not going anywhere?
When you’re connected to the power grid (remember, you don’t have to be), the state of Tennessee will actually cut you a check for producing your own power; they pay you for simply producing the power you use. Depending on the size of your system and how much energy it produces, you might just save a little on energy costs or you could turn a profit—the power company will purchase your surplus energy that feeds back into the grid. The Tennessee Valley Authority also provides up-front, $1,000 incentives for installing solar panels on your home.
Many solar-powered homeowners report that their rates of return are approximately 20 percent.
The Environmental Benefits
If you’ve ever seen the cloud of smog hanging over Los Angeles and most major US cities, you know that’s the last thing we want over the Nashville area. While one family can only do so much, going solar actually counts for a lot. A 3kW system prevents your home from producing the 3 tons of carbon dioxide it would ordinarily produce; in order to make a similar impact, you’d have to drive 7,300 fewer miles a year than you’re currently driving.
Whether you’re interested in the long-term investment or the sustainability aspect (or both), going solar might be one of the best upgrades you ever choose. If you are interested in talking to us about a custom home or a remodel we would love to hear from you. Please fill out the form below. [gravityform id=”9″ name=”Contact Us”]
