Changing pages on the calendar is as inevitable as any other change. It is constant and dynamic with relentless force moving on a path into the future. What happened in the past is now the stepping stone path on which we walk. In the residential solar industry, one stone in place is the surcharge on new solar systems. The Arizona Corporation Commission approved a new fee equal to $0.70 per installed Kw on residential solar systems. This fee is subject to change.
It is ironic that consumers are being told they are not paying their fair share to support infrastructure by installing solar on their homes while the utility is touting its ownership of nearly $2 billion of solar array installed from the proceeds of an environmental benefit surcharge posted to the bill of customers.
There is another stepping stone in place on our new path in the solar industry. That is the downward push on the price of equipment and the increase in the quality of that equipment. This part of the path brings stability to consumer confidence as solar energy on residential homes becomes mainstream. Our industry is maturing and this benefits consumers.
Our industry will continue to grow. We will install more systems. The value of solar is becoming widely understood. Realtors and appraisers are seeing enough data in the marketplace to understand that houses with solar sell a little quicker for a little more money. They are beginning to calculate the extra value solar energy adds to a house as a specific part of the property assessment process.
We are also seeing more new construction designed to include combination solar electric and hot water when new homes are built. Consumers are seeking these modern features when they shop for housing.
As more solar is installed, over time, there will be several benefits to the economy of the region. Utility prices will stabilize, which will improve the region’s cost of living index. Small businesses engaged in solar energy will continue to pay employees who will then be customers of other small businesses in the region. These workers require continuing education, which will contribute to the literacy of the community. A literate community is the kind of place that attracts employers to a region. The value of education and knowledge is what attracts professionals to a community for career opportunity. They want a place where their children will have access to great schools. Every solar system installed increases the sense of well being in the community. This is good for the region’s economy.
All new solar systems are going to need to be kept clean. This creates another opportunity for entry-level employment. These kinds of jobs are valuable to young people in the community. There are several community organizations having conversations to develop these ideas. Watch this column for updates.
Getting solar on your home is a great value. Contact your local solar energy contractor for more information. QCBN
Written By Jim Evans
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