Why Solar Panels Are More Attractive Than Ever

You might have an image of solar panels as being extremely bulky boxes that cost a fortune to install, but the truth is that today's solar panels are a lot more attractive than they once were. Here are a few reasons why it's time for you to consider going solar:

You'll save money in the long run.

This is a huge reason to make the move to solar. Contrary to what some might think, solar panels are not prohibitively expensive, and they usually pay for themselves in a matter of years. This is why the largest increases in the solar industry have been seen with middle-class Americans looking to save money on their energy bills.

If you own your panels, you could literally pay nothing for your electricity, since you could be generating more electricity than you're consuming. If you lease your panels, you'll still likely see your costs lowered by 10% - 50%.

You have options for the panels themselves.

Traditional solar panels are still mounted on roofs, and preferably the sections of roof facing the south. What's exciting is that companies have developed solar shingles that blend right into your home and deliver electricity just as efficiently as their larger counterparts that are installed over your existing shingles. These solar shingles are a great choice for people who need to invest in a new roof anyway, as they can combine the best of both worlds.

If you don't have a roof that catches enough sun, you could have solar panels installed elsewhere on your property. While this might not be ideal for people in the dense suburbs, this is a great option for people out in the country because it's a way to, in a sense, become a solar farmer.

There are several financing options.

You could pay the upfront cost in cash, and this would yield the best return on investment.

However, you also pursue two other options. The first is to arrange for a solar installation company to install and maintain your panels for you. In return, you'll get a discount on your electricity bill, and the company also benefits because they can get you excess electricity output.

The other option is to get a 0% down cash loan to buy your panels. You'll still see the benefits of an extremely low electricity bill (if you pay anything at all), but you'll be paying off that loan amount with interest. It depends on where you live and your electricity usage to determine which option is best, so you should definitely explore all of the possibilities.

Whichever route you choose, it's becoming more clear that solar is the way to go. It not only helps the environment, but it also helps your wallet.