After devastating floods damaged a woman's house in Kentucky, a local housing nonprofit built her a brand-new home that is helping her save money thanks to solar energy.
Going solar is one of the best ways to keep your electric bills low. Resources such as EnergySage can help make the transition easy with free tools for installation estimates and quote comparisons.
According to the Kentucky Lantern, Housing Oriented Ministries Established for Service Inc. built five net-zero homes with rooftop solar panels in eastern Kentucky after destructive floods in 2022. One of those new homes belongs to 76-year-old Lois Thompson, whose previous home suffered water damage.
"It still doesn't seem real, and I'm living in it," Thompson said. "I say, 'Lord, I thank you.' That's all I can do."
The Lantern reported that poor insulation and heating can drive bills higher than $400. Thanks to a new energy-efficient home with rooftop solar panels, Thompson's electric costs were reduced significantly. Her monthly bill was just over $21.
HOMES Inc. is building even more net-zero homes to help residents financially. Not only do energy-efficient homes reduce utility costs, but they also lower planet-overheating pollution. Electric power generation is the second-largest emitter of carbon dioxide pollution, per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Homeowners can take advantage of the 30% tax credit until the end of the year. With EnergySage, homeowners can save up to $10,000 on solar purchases and installations. There's also a mapping tool that shows the average cost of a solar panel system and other incentives for each state.
For homeowners on a budget, leasing solar panels is a fantastic alternative that doesn't require an upfront investment. Palmetto's LightReach solar panel leasing program will install panels for no money down and help customers lock in low energy rates.
Homeowners can save even more money on utilities by pairing solar panels with other electric appliances. Upgrading to a heat pump can save homeowners nearly $400 per year on energy costs. Mitsubishi makes it easy to find the right installer and heat pump for an affordable price.
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