Is Solar Worth It in Virginia?
We spell out everything you need to know about going solar in Virginia, from what you should consider in terms of hardware to how you choose an installer.
Is Virginia a Good State for Solar?
Yes! Virginia is ranked 9th in the country for solar panel installations and is rapidly expanding across the state. In fact, solar already accounts for 9% of the state’s energy production!
As the fastest-growing energy source in Virginia, solar energy allows for a wide range of applications, from small-scale roof-top systems to commercial buildings to utility-scale solar farms. Read on to find out how thousands of customers across the state are benefiting from the switch.
Solar Panel Considerations
If you are no longer asking why to go solar, there is still the question of what you should install. Dominion Energy Solutions uses only the best equipment.
Efficiency
Panel efficiency throughout its lifetime is important to factor in, as equipment degrades over time.
Warranties
A 25-year manufacturer equipment warranty is standard, ensuring the integrity of the equipment for the long haul.
Aesthetics
Sleek black panels that mount flush next to one another provide a nice look on homes.
Virginia Solar Panel Incentives & Rebates
Virginia has incentives that homeowners should know about when making the switch to solar.
Federal Investment Tax Credit – this is a 30% solar energy tax credit to reduce the income tax that all citizens of Virginia owe.
Net Metering – Energy companies give credit in return for excess energy generation. In Virginia, it applies to all solar systems that generate up to 20kW.
Property Tax Exemption – this state law exempts property taxes from homeowners who have such solar systems.
SREC’s – the Virginia solar market let’s homeowner monetize on their energy production.
What Should You Look For in a Solar Proposal?
Unfortunately, purchasing solar is not as easy as buying a packet of gum. There are a lot of things to consider, and there are a lot of contractors out there that may gloss over details to expedite the sale.
In order to help you be prepared, we’ve outlined the things you should look for in any solar proposal (including, obviously, ones we can offer you for free).
Does the proposal account for your current energy usage?
Your bill may vary from less than $100 to more than $250. Any solar system needs to account for your current usage and show how much your solar system will offset this bill. It’s important that your proposal uses real numbers, meaning anyone providing you with a quote should have asked for your current power usage (found on your bill). If they haven’t asked, then chances are your proposal is not using realistic math.
Does the proposal account for shade on your home?
Does your roof have shade? If so, for how long during the day? Panels can only work at full capacity when they are unobstructed. Some shade is not a dealbreaker, but full shade – particularly on south-facing walls – may result in solar not being right for your home. It’s important that any solar proposal account for the shade your roof gets throughout the day and throughout the year.
Are you the homeowner?
While we would love to help renters install solar, installations can only be done through the owners of the property.
Is your roof material right? And is your roof in good condition?
You don’t want to put good money after bad, and that is something that can happen when you put a great solar panel installation on top of a roof that is at the end of its life. Make sure you discuss the material and condition of your roof as some materials (e.g., slate) are not ideal for solar installation. Dominion Energy Solutions can help you with a proposal that ensures solar is right for your roofing material and, if your roof is in need of repairs, we’ll take care of those before we install.
Dominion Energy Solutions Does Solar Right
- Free Solar Education Calls
- Customized Solar Designs
- Competitive Financing Packages
- Residential Solar Installation
- Commercial Solar Installation
- Solar Panel Warranties
- U.S. Manufactured Solar Panel Equipment
- Battery Storage Solutions
- Electric Vehicle Charing Solutions
Get a Free Customized Solar Quote
"*" indicates required fields