With the litany of rebates and incentives that are available for photovoltaic or solar-thermal technology, going solar can be extremely cost-effective. Solar-energy projects are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit until 2016, for example - so a homeowner who goes solar can save 30 percent right off the bat.
And making solar part of a home-improvement project can be a logical move. Installing solar panels or a solar water heater when construction is going on elsewhere in the house can reduce the upheaval that accompanies a major home upgrade. In addition, older homes may need new electrical infrastructure to handle a solar photovoltaic installation - and what better time is there to improve a house's electrical system than during a renovation?
Not only can adopting solar power during a major renovation make the move to solar easier - it can also save money. Homeowners who elect to finance their home-improvement projects may be able to secure more favorable terms if a solar installation is included in their financing package, as lenders may see a solar power system as a value-added improvement that will help a household save on energy.
The savings that accrue from solar aren't found solely on a homeowner's energy bills, though. Solar installations can reduce homes' carbon emissions significantly - and because climate experts say carbon output will have to be cut 80 percent by mid-century to avert climate-change crises, reducing emissions will become an imperative for individuals, companies and governments.
Homeowners can do their part by going solar today. And if emitting less carbon is a person's goal, she would do well to renovate her current home: Not only can home improvements like new windows, additional insulation and efficient appliances reduce a home's carbon footprint, but renovation emits far less carbon than building a new home would. According to the British charity Empty Homes, renovating a standing house produces one-third the carbon of constructing a new house.
Solar power is a smart move for homeowners looking to slash their carbon output and save money on energy. Renovating a home can accomplish those goals, too - so why not do both at the same time?
