Many Georgians go solar everyday, partially because they like the freedom it gives, and partially because of the potential savings. Of course many homeowners are also trying to do something for the environment. The state actually has 312,450 homes on solar power as of 2020*, and the number keeps growing!
Georgia is one of the few states that allow Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) programs that allow you to sell excess energy back to participating utilities. Jackson EMC offers a one-time rebate of $450 per kilowatt of DC, up to $4,500 for eligible customers. If you are a customer of Jackson EMC or Georgia Power, you are eligible for net metering, a policy that compensates you for excess electricity produced by your solar system at the same rate that you are charged for electricity. Importantly, Georgia Power’s net metering is capped at 5,000 households or 32 Megawatts of power, whichever comes first. After the net metering cap is reached, new solar customers will only be compensated at Georgia Power’s export rate, which is just $0.03 per kilowatt-hour.
Georgia homeowners are also eligible for the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC).*** The ITC allows you to deduct 26 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes.
Energy rates may increase at any time. In Georgia, time of use (TOU) billing means higher rates depending what time you are using energy. With a solar system and batteries, you can avoid energy from the grid altogether. With net metering, your utility company may even pay you instead.
Scheduled outages in Georgia are normal and necessary, but they are still inconvenient. Unforeseen weather may also cause outages and leave your home without power. If you install batteries with your system, your home can stay powered during an outage and at night. Talk to your solar dealer about what batteries can keep you powered and prepared.
Georgia has a beautiful outdoor environment full of agriculture and natural beauty. By going solar you are choosing to preserve your state’s natural resources. Many Georgians enjoy hunting and fishing. Greener alternatives, such as solar energy, can help preserve this popular activity while keeping a clean environment. Going solar reduces greenhouse gas emissions that pollute the environment and damage its resources.
Georgia homeowners have TOU rates that cause energy prices to vary depending on time of day and year. Budgeting can be really difficult when you don’t know what to expect. With solar, you have the opportunity to offset your energy usage. This means you would only have a minimum payment to your utility and your solar payment.
Many homeowners go solar to increase home equity. The average Georgia home is worth $223,945, that is a 9.2% annual increase.* According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), purchasing a solar power system can increase your home’s resale value by an average of 17%. Solar is just another way to keep up with the market.**
