Around the globe, countries are taking steps towards reducing their environmental footprint, adopting green technologies and developing eco-friendly infrastructure. Along with countries like China and the United Kingdom, the United States has been working hard to contribute to a global solar energy movement unlike any seen before.
The proof is in the pudding—so here are three ways the U.S. is leading in renewable solar energy.
Let the mega numbers do the talking!
In the past 17 years, solar power generation in the U.S. has skyrocketed from a mere 493 kilowatt hours in the year 2000, to a whopping 52,958 kilowatt hours last year—and there’s no sign of it slowing down now.
Aside from production, the solar industry is also boosting the economy by creating a significant number of jobs nationwide. In 2017, approximately 250,000 Americans were employed in the industry. As solar prices continue to decrease, adoption increases and the industry grows, career opportunities will continue to expand as well.
Legislation that puts its money where its mouth is…
In many U.S. states, the government is behind a strong push towards renewable energies, leading by example and paving the way for other states and countries around the world. Take California for example—they’ve recently passed legislation that requires all new homes built past 2020 to have solar energy systems built in.
While such a large change may seem inconvenient to future homeowners, it will actually pose major benefits. The average home can expect to save up to $19,000 on electricity bills over a 30 year period—that’s some serious savings!
Incentives for going green $$$
The U.S. federal and state governments also provide major incentives to homeowners and businesses looking to go green. For example, installing a new solar energy system anywhere in the U.S. will give you a 30 percent federal tax rebate as part of the ITC.
In other states like Arizona for example, you can gain up to 25 percent back on your initial investment into solar energy, up to $1,000 directly off your personal income tax—and that’s in addition to the federal ITC. For a full list of incentives by state, visit the Solar Power Authority.
If you’ve decided you want to join the movement and hop aboard the solar express, give us a call for a customized quote on solar energy for your home or business.
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