Why Are More American Homeowners Choosing Solar Power?

August 31, 2022

Due to growing concerns about climate change and rising gas prices, more American homeowners are switching to alternative energy sources. Solar panels are becoming increasingly common across the nation and are a fantastic way to offset energy expenses and lessen your home's environmental impact. Additionally, they allow homeowners to support local companies and achieve energy independence. The fact that, according to Energy Sage, there were more than 2 million solar system installations in the US at the start of 2019 is proof that homeowners are using solar energy more frequently. This article seeks to outline key factors that make solar power the preferred option for American households.

Energy Bill Reduction or Elimination

The primary sources of electricity in the past have been fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. They are relatively scarce resources and are hazardous to the environment. This combination results in a market that is unstable, with daily fluctuations in energy prices. With solar panels, homeowners can cut their energy costs — and even possibly get rid of them altogether. The amount of energy saved will depend on how much energy is utilized and produced by the solar system, but solar power has allowed many households to drastically cut the cost of their energy bills. As a result, homes with solar power have access to affordable electricity and are self-sufficient in terms of energy. The likelihood of service interruption is also decreased by the durability of solar power systems.

Solar Energy Systems Are Environmentally Friendly

As a clean, environmentally friendly energy source, solar energy is a fantastic option for homeowners who want to lessen their carbon impact. Although manufacturing solar panels does take energy and non-renewable resources, using them doesn't require any additional resources. Gathering solar energy is a self-sufficient process, and adding solar panels to your roof is a simple, secure, and efficient way of demonstrating concern for the environment and support for a sustainable future.

Solar Energy Systems Operate in All Climates

Solar energy system manufacturing technology has advanced through time and is now more dependable than ever. Modern solar panels are made to produce electricity even on cloudy days. As a result, solar panels are functional in every part of the country. As solar energy systems become more efficient at gathering energy, more homeowners can use them to provide all the power their homes need.

Solar Energy Systems Are Affordable

Costs for residential solar energy systems have decreased as a result of advancements in solar technology and production. Prices for buying and installing solar panel systems are at their lowest level in recent years. There has never been a better time for households to switch to solar energy. It should also be noted that, aside from providing homeowners with sustainable energy, solar power is an investment that provides value for money. For the majority of US homeowners that desire to switch to solar energy, there are already significant financial incentives available.

Increase the Value of Your Home

Solar panels are seen as a home improvement comparable to a renovated kitchen or finished basement in terms of return on investment. Homebuyers are prepared to fork over more money for a residence with an average-sized solar system than for one without. When you put your house on the market, having a solar energy system might speed up the selling process.

Earn Tax Credits and Rebates

The majority of homeowners are unaware of the specific tax advantages that solar energy installations can actually provide. The primary tax benefit is the federal income tax credit, which reimburses 30% for the whole cost of the equipment and installation. For households considering solar energy, this federal tax credit offers a considerable incentive. Additionally, several jurisdictions provide renewable energy credits and incentives to households powered by solar energy. Many solar panels have a 25-year usable life and a ten-year warranty, so homeowners may generate free electricity and bonus credits for more than twenty years while paying back the investment in just three and a half years. These rebates and tax credits may cover up to 90% of the price of a residential solar power installation in some regions.

Switching to a solar energy system offers both financial and environmental benefits to most homeowners. With so many advantages, it's no wonder that so many American homeowners are choosing solar power. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you have questions about our solar power systems. Our team at Northwind Solar is happy to address all of your concerns and assist you with the purchase and installation of a home solar power system.

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Solar Update for Businesses - Powering Forward

June 20, 2025

Right now, the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a 30% tax credit to businesses that install solar energy systems. Originally scheduled to continue through 2033, the current Senate version of the bill maintains this 30% rate only through the end of 2025. After that, the credit is set to step down sharply: 18% in 2026, 6% in 2027, and 0% in 2028 and beyond. Don’t Miss the Safe Harbor Window Fortunately, there’s a way to lock in the full 30% credit before it’s reduced. Under the IRS’s "safe harbor" provision, you can preserve the full ITC by beginning physical work on your project or making a minimum 5% down payment by the end of 2025 — even if your system is completed in 2026. This is a powerful opportunity to secure long-term financial benefits while the full federal incentive is still available. Stackable Incentives Make the Financials Even Better Beyond the ITC, there are several additional programs that can dramatically reduce your project’s net cost: 10% Domestic Content Bonus: Earn an extra 10% tax credit for using U.S.-made solar components. Focus on Energy Rebates: A Wisconsin-based program offering upfront cash rebates for solar projects. MACRS Accelerated Depreciation: A federal tax benefit that allows you to recover the cost of your solar system more quickly through tax deductions. Solar Central Wisconsin Grow Solar Group Buy: Group pricing and additional resources that make going solar more affordable for local businesses. When stacked together, these incentives can cover a significant portion of your total investment, all while reducing your energy bills for decades to come. Why Act Now Solar has always been a smart investment, but today’s environment is uniquely favorable. With utility energy costs rising and key federal credits sunsetting, 2025 is the year to take action. Whether you’ve previously explored solar or are just getting started, revisiting your project now could mean locking in tens of thousands of dollars in savings. Northwind Solar can help you navigate every step, from incentive qualification to project design and installation. Improve your profitability by making a high-performing energy investment in your business. Achieve energy independence, support local businesses, and contact Northwind Solar today! REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE Reach out anytime at: 715‑630‑6451 ___________________ Additional Resources: Update on Residential Solar Incentive Changes Solar Incentives Overview Grow Solar Central Wisconsin Group Buy Program

Is Solar Power Worth It? Breaking Down the Myths and Real Benefits

June 11, 2025

Do you have questions about solar system benefits? Read this blog to learn more about breaking down the myths and real benefits of solar power.

2025 Grow Solar Central Wisconsin Group Buy Program

June 10, 2025

Northwind Solar is proud to continue its partnership as the official installer for the 2025 Grow Solar Central Wisconsin Group Buy Program , in collaboration with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association ( MREA ). This initiative offers homeowners and small businesses in Portage, Marathon, Waushara, Waupaca, Wood, and Lincoln Counties an exceptional opportunity to invest in solar energy at below-market rates through a limited-time group purchasing program. However, a critical deadline is approaching. Recent legislative developments indicate that the 30% federal Residential Solar Tax Credit —a significant incentive that substantially reduces the cost of solar installations—may expire on December 31, 2025, nearly a decade earlier than previously scheduled. This potential change underscores the urgency for homeowners to act swiftly to secure both the group buy discounts and the federal tax credit. “We’re excited to once again be working with the Grow Solar program to expand solar access in our region,” said Woody Bolton, employee-owner at Northwind Solar. “With the possibility of the federal tax credit ending soon, it's more important than ever for our neighbors to take advantage of these combined savings.” The Grow Solar program facilitates community members joining forces to leverage bulk pricing for solar installations, significantly reducing the cost of going solar. The program features free educational events, called Solar Power Hours, which help residents learn about solar energy, how it works, available incentives, and what to expect from an installation. “In times of uncertainty and climbing prices, one thing remains the same: we all need electricity,” said Evonne Waugh, program manager at MREA. “Investing in solar means securing lower bills for many years ahead.” Since its inception, Grow Solar Central Wisconsin has helped over 250 households and businesses make the switch to solar, adding nearly 2 megawatts of clean energy capacity to the local grid and generating millions of kilowatt-hours of renewable power annually. REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE TODAY! ATTEND A SOLAR POWER HOUR INFO SESSION