Maine has a growing solar market with ~486MW of total installed capacity already under their belt! Legislation passed in 2019 requires 80% of electricity to be produced from renewable sources by 2030. They have also set a goal to produce 100% by 2050. Maine utilities also offer net energy metering providing credits for monthly net excess generation. This means that solar customers in Maine can get paid for the energy they produce! Going solar in ME is a great choice for anyone looking to save money on energy. Not only does ME legislation encourage it, but there are incentives available right now to help you make the decision. Solar can also keep you running in case power outages happen and it helps you maintain predictable payments.
Many homeowners decide to go solar because of potential savings. If you are on a time of use (TOU) plan, your energy rates vary according to what time you are powering your home. With a solar system, you can avoid using energy from the grid during the day. With batteries, you can run off excess solar energy at night. Depending on how much energy your system produces and how much energy you use, you may not need any power from the grid.
Many homeowners report power outages as a key driver for going solar. Power outages, planned or not, can be a nuisance, especially in the winter or summer when you need power the most. With a battery-equipped system you can still have power to keep your home running. We have many options, so talk to your dealer about what batteries suit your system and lifestyle.
Maine is home to many lakes, ponds, falls, and millions of acres of protected wilderness. From Acadia to the Sugarloaf Mountain, Maine homeowners are lucky to live in a beautiful state. With many outdoor activities to enjoy, the importance of preserving the outdoors is more imperative than ever. Many homeowners go solar for this very reason. A solar system helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. It also reduces your reliance on fossil fuels, something that may be cut soon according to the state legislature.
TOU billing makes your monthly energy bill more difficult than it should be. Even if you use the same energy each month, your bill may change according to what time you used that energy. With a solar system, you may be able to save money depending on how much energy you use. Most importantly, your monthly bills may become easier to predict. Your system may help you avoid high TOU rates, and with batteries, you can potentially avoid using energy from the grid.
If you ask your neighbors, some of them have already gone solar to build equity. Going solar may add value to your home and may help it sell faster. The average Maine home is currently valued at approximately $321,100 that is a 3.5% annual increase from last year. Keep up with the rising home values, especially if you want to sell in the future.