Solar energy has proven to be a viable and environmentally friendly option for homeowners in West Virginia. One of the main benefits of solar power is its ability to significantly reduce electricity bills. By installing solar panels, homeowners can generate their own renewable energy and become less reliant on traditional utility companies. West Virginia, known for its abundant sunshine, offers great potential for solar energy generation. Solar panels are capable of converting sunlight into electricity through a process called photovoltaic (PV) technology. This technology allows homeowners to tap into a free and virtually unlimited source of energy, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing their carbon footprint. Furthermore, the state offers various financial incentives, such as tax credits and rebate programs, which can further reduce the upfront costs of installing solar panels.
In addition to cost savings, solar power provides homeowners in West Virginia with energy independence. With the installation of solar panels, homeowners can generate their own electricity, reducing their dependence on the volatile energy market. Traditional energy sources, such as coal and gas, are subject to price fluctuations and availability concerns. By harnessing the power of the sun, homeowners can gain control over their energy production and long-term energy costs. Moreover, solar panels require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan, making them a reliable investment for homeowners. By utilizing solar power, homeowners also contribute to the overall energy independence of their community and generate local employment opportunities, as the solar industry continues to grow and expand in West Virginia.
A peak sun hour is an hour in the day when the intensity of the sunlight reaches an average of 1000 watts/meter².
State Homes Powered by Solar
Growth Projection: 247 MW over the next 5 years
At the most basic level, solar panels are devices that take in the sun’s rays and convert them into electricity or heat. Once the sun hits the panels, the energy is made into electricity. A solar inverter helps turn the electricity into power that can be used. The more panels you have on a roof, the more solar electricity you can produce! Solar panels generate their own power and as a result can offset your monthly electricity bill, if not eliminate it in 97035.
There are 8 solar policies and incentives in the state of West Virginia. These incentives and tax credits help reduce the cost of solar panels in order to promote this source of renewable energy.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory states that every dollar that is saved on energy through solar increases home value by $20 in West Virginia. More research shows that solar panels can add an average of $18,324 to the value of a medium-sized home.