Solar energy is shining for homebuilders in Little America

Why should Maryland homebuilders offer solar on newly constructed homes?

Including solar on home building projects is an excellent way to improve the home's environmental impact and allow it to stand out to potential buyers. That's why solar for Maryland homebuilders is a high priority in new home construction.

Around 80% of roofs in Maryland are solar-viable,^*Google Project Sunroof, Estimated rooftop solar potential of Maryland, November, 2018 -https://sunroof.withgoogle.com/data-explorer/place/ChIJ35Dx6etNtokRsfZVdmU3r_I/ and the state had invested $3.8 billion into solar energy by the end of 2021.^*SEIA, Maryland Solar, Accessed on 04/21/2022 - https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/maryland-solar However, Maryland currently ranks 27th for solar installations across the United States. Prioritizing solar energy for Maryland home builders can allow the state to improve its solar energy production and nationwide rankings.

Why would consumers want to buy new homes with solar panels?

Maryland has impressive clean energy goals. The state plans to convert to 50% clean energy by 2030 and 100% clean electricity by 2040. However, Maryland currently has only 1,426.5 MW (megawatts) of solar arrays installed statewide, leaving plenty of room for new installations to begin powering homes.^*SEIA, Maryland Solar, Accessed on 04/21/2022 - https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/maryland-solar

When Maryland residents purchase homes with solar power systems, they can contribute to these clean energy initiatives and feel good about their environmental impact. If Maryland should achieve its solar potential, carbon emissions would decrease by 9.3 million metric tons. This carbon offset is equivalent to taking two million passenger cars off the road for an entire year.^*Google Project Sunroof, Estimated rooftop solar potential of Maryland, 11/2018 - https://sunroof.withgoogle.com/data-explorer/place/ChIJ35Dx6etNtokRsfZVdmU3r_I/

Additionally, adding solar for new construction allows future homebuyers to reap the benefits of clean solar energy without needing to add the solar installations themselves. They can also benefit from the increased property value that solar panels provide, allowing them to experience financial benefits down the line.

Are there financial incentives for builders who use renewable energy?

Solar energy costs are gradually decreasing in Maryland, as prices have fallen by 45% over the past five years (and 80% since 2010).^*ElectricRate, Maryland Solar Power Facts in 2022, Accessed on 04/21/2022 - https://www.electricrate.com/solar-energy/maryland/ Now is an affordable time for builders to begin installing solar panels on their rooftops.

Including solar on your new builds can also save future buyers money in the long-term. The average homeowner in Maryland saves between $37,000 and $50,000 over the 20 years following their rooftop solar installations. These savings can offset their electricity bills by between 75% and 101%.^*EnergySage, Maryland solar panels: local pricing and installation data. 04/16/2022 - https://www.energysage.com/solar-panels/md/

Maryland also offers rebates and solar incentives to offset the costs of going solar. For example, the Maryland solar rebate program provides a $1,000 rebate for residential solar installations smaller than 20 kW (kilowatts). Additionally, the Federal Investment Tax Credit can allow residents to reduce their taxable incomes by 30% of their solar installation costs.

Residents can also receive long-term financial incentives for using solar energy in their single-family homes. The Maryland Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC) program allows homeowners to receive credits for every MWh (megawatt hour) of clean energy their solar systems produce.^*DSIRE, Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program, Accessed on 04/21/2022 - https://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/5688 They can then sell these credits in the market.

These financial incentives can reduce the cost of your solar build and make homes more appealing to potential buyers.

What's the best way to add solar to new single-family homes in Maryland?

Working with a qualified solar provider is an essential step in your solar installation process. Your solar provider can collaborate with you to create the perfect rooftop solar power system for your residential build.

A reputable solar provider will assess your plans for the residential property and examine the following factors to design a suitable solar system:

• Property location

• Average sunlight

• Available roof space

• Budget

Then, they will develop a top-tier solar solution that suits your building needs and the needs of future homeowners.

Solar Power for Homebuilders

Start working with our seasoned solar solutions professionals today, learn more about SunPower's solar power solutions for homebuilders. Chat with one of our customer service representatives to learn more about solar for Maryland home builders.