Florida is a natural environment for embracing the popularity of solar power when building a new home – or renovating an existing property. Incorporating sustainable energy solutions is as economically smart as it is environmentally conscious.
Considering Solar Power Systems for your New Home
Integrating solar power into the design of a Sarasota house begins with a foundational understanding of solar technology – and if you are retrofitting a home, a comprehensive assessment of your home’s suitability for this technology. Because solar panels convert sunlight into electrical power, it is an exceptionally efficient solution in Florida, aptly named the Sunshine State. However, not every home design is equally compatible with he installation of solar panels. To start with, the roof’s orientation and angle can significantly impact how much sunlight your panels will receive.
However, when dealing with older homes, you also need to factor in the age and condition of your roof before deciding if solar panels are the right solution. Installing solar panels on an old roof can esult in wasted money, additional expense and complications when roof repairs are required. Homeowners also need to consider the shade from nearby trees or structures, as this may significantly lower the efficiency of your solar panels.
In the case of designing a new home to your specifications, it is much less problematic to plan for solar panels from the beginning. If you are looking to build a green home utilizing solar panels, your architect can help you to orient the home, the roof and the surrounding landscpaing to optimize the sunlight. If they do not have experience in solar power installation, they can coordinate with a professional solar installer to evaluate the expected energy requirements of the home being built and recommend the appropriate system size and type. Between your architect and the solar experts, you can be assured that you will receive the insight you need, and that your choice will maximize savings and use the best solar technologies for your design and layout.
Did You Know? There are three equally valid options to consider based upon your needs and convictions: solar systems that are attached to the electrical grid, systems that are off-grid, and hybrid solutions that offer the best of both worlds.
Maintenance, Incentives and Long-Term Benefits
Florida residents may realize several incentives and rebates when incorporating solar power into their new home builds, and these potential tax credits and rebates may lower the up-front cost of solar system installation. Florida’s solar tax programs can provide significant financial returns, making investments in solar energy more accessible for homeowners (and business owners as well.) Federal programs such as the Solar Investment Tax Credit also gives homeowners the capability to deduct some of the costs associated with the purchase and installation of their panels from their federal taxes, delivering additional savings.
Most solar power panel systems provide a warranty of up to 25 years, but with routine maintenance, they can be effective well beyond this time frame. Adhering to a regular schedule of inspections and repair can avoid the escalation of a minor issue intoan expensive repair. Solar panels may increase property value as environmentally friendly features become more desirable for mainstream home buyers.
JTL Studios Can Hep Design Your Green Home
If you are looking to build an environmentally friendly home in the Sarasota area, JTL Studios is here to help. Your energy efficient design may include smart appliances, a green roof, solar panels or uniquely designed breezeways – there are hundreds of small changes that can make a huge impact on our environment. Call today to learn more about how we can help you to build the home you envision.
