Solar Panels and Weatherization Both Save Money
Cost savings are the main reason why solar panel installation in Maryland is similar to other types of weatherization. When you do things like upgrade to an electric heat pump or improve your insulation, you pay less in energy costs. When you combine these services with solar, you save even more because you’re relying less on power from the grid.
Electricity costs in Baltimore County and other areas of Maryland are rising. The state government says this is because of rate changes, extreme weather, and data centers. Solar panels make their own electricity, so a family doesn’t have to use as much power from the grid. This makes their utility bills smaller.
Weatherization and Solar Work Together As One System
You can think of weatherization upgrades as a group effort to reduce energy waste and save money. For example, installing an energy-efficient heat pump reduces heating and cooling costs. Replacing a gas stove with an electric one makes cooking less expensive. Adding insulation reduces heat loss and lowers utility bills. All of these upgrades can be used alongside solar panels to create a whole home system that saves energy costs.
So, why are solar panels such an important part of the equation? Savings are maximized when this equipment is powered by rooftop solar. Here’s an example of how the whole home system works together:
1. Your Solar Panels Make Electricity
Your solar panels capture energy from the sun during the day, giving your home immediate electricity. You might make more than you use. If so, you can send it to the utility company and get credit to use on your electric bills.
2. You Heat and Cool with an Electric Heat Pump
As long as your solar panels are generating enough electricity, you can use it to run your heat pump. This lets you heat and cool your home for no cost. If there isn’t enough solar at any point during the day or at night, you use power from the grid.
3. Your Insulation Makes Heating and Cooling More Efficient
Insulation upgrades and air sealing make your heat pump run more efficiently because less heating and cooling will escape the home. You use less solar power and send more back for credit.
4. You Make Hot Water with an Electric Water Heater
You can use your electric water heater to create hot water for showers, dishes, and handwashing. Like the heat pump, it will use free solar power if enough is available. Otherwise, it uses the grid.
5. You Get a Very Small Electric Bill
At the end of the month, you get an electric bill. It will be very low because you used solar power most of the time. If you used any grid power, you can offset some of the cost using your credits from days when you made more electricity than what was used.
You Can Receive Both at No Cost
Solar panels are part of CAC’s Maryland weatherization assistance programs. This means that some people can get them installed at no cost. You might qualify if you meet the following criteria:
- You live in Maryland and own your home. It cannot be a mobile home or condo.
- You have an asphalt shingle roof (no metal, slate, or flat roofs).
You meet CAC’s income guidelines.
