How to go solar

Solar power is critical to protecting the environment. Solar is an energy source we can depend on to be virtually pollution-free. Harnessing the power of the sun with solar energy means cleaner air, a more stable climate, and less strain on natural resources. With each new kilowatt hour of solar, we chip away at our reliance on polluting fossil fuels and take a step toward a cleaner, healthier society.

Solar energy also makes our energy grid more resilient. Solar reduces the need for generation from central power plants and, over the long lifetime of solar systems, it also can increase price stability and grid reliability and reduce environmental compliance costs. You can make your own home even more resilient by adding a battery to your solar energy system.  Check out our report “The True Value of Solar” to learn more.

And as an added bonus, going solar can reduce your utility bill. When you install solar panels, your savings depend on a few different factors, like how much energy your solar system produces, how much energy you use and incentives available in your area. Regardless, generating your own energy with a rooftop solar panel system can help reduce your utility bill and protect you from rising electricity prices. Most homeowners save thousands on electricity bills over the 25+ year lifespan of their solar panel system. Similarly, with community solar, you can also reduce your annual electricity costs while helping support local renewable energy projects.

Step one: Register online

It only takes a few minutes to get started. Head to EnergySage and create your free account by entering your address and electric bill info. From there, you can access FAQs and educational resources to learn more about solar and decide whether it’s right for your home.

Step two: Receive quotes from local installers

Once you’ve registered, you can receive custom quotes from EnergySage’s pre-screened installers in a standard, easy-to-understand format. EnergySage has nationwide coverage of pre-screened, high-quality solar installers who will compete for your business.

Step three: Compare quotes and pick an installer

EnergySage can help you find the best solar solution by offering side-by-side comparisons for all of the quotes you receive. Along the way, you’ll have complimentary access to a dedicated Energy Advisor who can provide expert, unbiased advice on your solar options and answer any questions you have about solar panel technology, local incentives, financing options and installation best practices.

What comes next? Good for you, good for the planet.

Once you move forward with an installer and get your system up and running, the benefits of solar start rolling in! Go to EnergySage to get started.

What is community solar?

Not everyone can install solar panels on their rooftop. Fortunately, renters and others still have options for tapping into the benefits of solar energy. You can participate in community solar by subscribing to a share of a solar farm near you. Rather than producing power on your rooftop, you benefit from clean energy produced at a nearby solar farm. As a subscriber, you receive a credit on your utility bill for the energy your portion of the solar farm produced. This solar option lets you support local solar while saving on your electricity bill.

How do I get started with community solar?

EnergySage’s Community Solar Marketplace makes it easy to find local community solar projects in several states. With their tool, you can compare multiple options in your area and find the perfect solution for your needs. Go to EnergySage to find whether community solar is an option for you.