I Was Told I Can’t Go Solar
I Want to Go Solar, But My Home Needs Upgrades
Going solar is an exciting step toward saving money and embracing renewable energy. However, many homeowners discover that their properties need upgrades before they can install solar panels. Common pre-solar projects include tree removal, electrical panel replacements, and even roof repairs. Fortunately, at Northwest Hills Solar, we work with solar companies to subsidize many of these costs, often resulting in no out-of-pocket expenses for homeowners.
Common Pre-Solar Upgrades and Their Costs in Connecticut
1. Tree Removal
Shade from overhanging trees can significantly reduce solar panel efficiency. In Connecticut, tree removal typically costs between $500 and $2,000 per tree. However, Northwest Hills Solar often partners with solar companies to cover these costs, so homeowners don’t have to bear the expense themselves.
2. Electrical Panel Replacement
Many older homes need upgraded electrical panels to handle the additional power load from a solar system. While this upgrade can cost $1,500 to $3,000 in Connecticut, Northwest Hills Solar works with solar providers to include this in the overall project cost, often at no charge to the homeowner.
3. Roof Repair or Replacement
Solar panels last 25 years or more, so ensuring your roof is in good condition is essential. Roof replacement costs in Connecticut range from $10,000 to $15,000. However, Northwest Hills Solar frequently coordinates with solar companies to subsidize roof replacements for qualifying homeowners, reducing or eliminating the upfront cost.
Financing Options and Incentives
At Northwest Hills Solar, if the entire project can’t be subsidized, there are additional programs and incentives to help homeowners offset the cost of going solar:
• Smart-E Loans: Provided through the Connecticut Green Bank, these low-interest loans finance energy-efficient upgrades like roof repairs and electrical panel replacements. Northwest Hills Solar can guide you in accessing these funds, bundling the upgrades into your solar project to simplify the process.
• Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES) Program: This statewide initiative compensates residential solar owners for the electricity their systems produce and supply to the grid. By generating income, homeowners can further offset upgrade costs.
• Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Homeowners can claim a 30% federal tax credit on the total cost of their solar installation, including any necessary upgrades. Northwest Hills Solar ensures these benefits are maximized for our customers.
Working with Northwest Hills Solar
Northwest Hills Solar understands that the costs of pre-solar upgrades can be a barrier for many homeowners. That’s why we collaborate with solar companies to get these projects subsidized or fully covered, minimizing or eliminating costs for you.
When you work with Northwest Hills Solar, our team evaluates your home to determine which upgrades are needed. From tree removal to electrical panel upgrades and roof repairs, we help ensure these improvements are covered as part of your solar installation project. If full subsidization isn’t possible, we’ll guide you through financing options and incentive programs to ensure the process is as affordable and stress-free as possible.
Conclusion
Transitioning to solar energy doesn’t have to mean taking on expensive home upgrades. At Northwest Hills Solar, we work closely with solar companies to ensure these projects are subsidized or fully paid for, and if needed, we help you access additional financing and incentives. Contact us today to learn how we can help you upgrade your home and start enjoying the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy—all at little to no cost to you.
