Installing a solar panel system on your Phoenix metro area home is affordable thanks to the extension and amendments to the popular federal investment tax credit (ITC). With the average local solar setup running between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives, understanding what qualifies to slice 30% right off your tax bill is key. Which expenses related to going solar count and what does it mean for your home? What Equipment and Fees Qualify? The tax credit applies to both homeowner-purchased equipment and any forms of financing that aren’t a lease for solar gear associated with generating sol ..read more

As an Arizona homeowner basking in the warmth of self-generated solar power, you know your solar panels aren’t just an investment. They’re a bright shining symbol of environmental responsibility and energy independence. This Valentine’s Day, why not skip the generic chocolates and roses by expressing your love for the system that keeps your wallet and our planet cool. Here are four unique ways to show your solar panels some Arizona-sized love. 1. Get Them Sparkling Clean Dust and bird droppings can act like miniature energy vampires, siphoning away potential green energy savings. You can sched ..read more

As a Phoenix metro homeowner with a rooftop solar panel system, you know that Arizona’s abundant sunshine keeps your system cranking much of the year. But the late winter months of February and March can seriously impact energy production if you’re not staying on top of maintenance for your panels. While the weather is generally mild and clear compared to many parts of the country during our “winter” season, it still poses challenges. The low arc of the winter sun, smaller amounts of direct sunlight, and unpredictable micro storms with heavy rain or even hail can all reduce solar panel product ..read more

With sunny Arizona providing ideal conditions for solar energy along with attractive federal government tax incentives, it’s tempting to slash solar system equipment costs by snagging rock-bottom priced photovoltaic panels. However, extreme solar discounts often prove too good to be true. Quality and performance almost always suffer despite appealing price tags. Here are some of the shortfalls of bargain-basement priced solar panels and why paying a little more for reputable equipment really pays off in the long run. Inferior Efficiency and Output Cut-rate panels frequently get manufactured ut ..read more

The Valley of the Sun is a solar lover’s paradise. We have around 316 sunny days a year. Meaning that there are only 49 days of completely cloudy weather skies. Harnessing this abundant desert light through rooftop photovoltaic (PV) panels allows homeowners to slash electric bills while avoiding power grid usage during peak rate periods in summer months. You might think our hot, sunny summers would be primetime for solar installations. However, embarking on new PV panel system projects during Phoenix’s mild, temperate winters offers some compelling advantages you won’t find the rest of the yea ..read more

According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport receives 3,872 sunshine hours every year. This makes rooftop solar power generation extremely reliable for local homeowners. However, even here in the Sonoran Desert, solar efficiency can dip somewhat during the shorter winter days and occasional inclement winter storms. Sometimes, these winter storms and freezing temperatures around the Valley of the Sun pose risks that warrant preventative action for safe solar operation all season long. Continue Monitoring Performance During January ..read more

The greater Phoenix area boasts sunnier skies than most places in the United States, even earning the nickname “Valley of the Sun.” But our solar potential drops during winter as the sun moves lower across the sky during these shorter days. Fortunately, with some seasonal adjustment, you can keep your home’s solar panels working at maximum efficiency. Understanding Angle Optimization Photovoltaic solar panels work by directly converting sunlight photons into usable electricity to power your house. Your solar system’s productivity depends on catching as many of the sun’s rays as possible. Like ..read more

The Valley of the Sun basks in over 3,800 hours of sunshine annually, making it a solar paradise. If you’re considering harnessing this natural bounty to power your home in 2024, understanding the costs involved is important. Price per Watt: The Baseline The primary cost factor is the price per watt of your system. In the greater Phoenix area, expect to pay around $2.46 per watt to $2.64 per watt on average including installation. This translates to roughly $11,910 for a 5-kW system, one of the most common sizes for residential installations. However, remember, this is just an average. Prices ..read more

The holidays are finally upon us here in Arizona! We hope you’re enjoying decorating your home for the holidays and preparing special holiday-themed meals for your loved ones. Your expert solar installers at Cool Blew Solar are sharing some friendly tips to help you safely enjoy the warmth and cheer of the holidays in your cozy, solar-powered home. Solar System Performance You’ll want to ensure your solar panel system is running optimally so you won’t be concerned about home heating issues as you entertain guests or watch holiday and sporting events on tv. Check your solar power monitoring sys ..read more

Arizona boasts abundant sunshine making our state a prime location for solar power. However, the cost of installing a solar panel system can vary significantly depending on several indicators. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions and get the best value for your solar investment. Here are some key components that impact the cost of home solar panel systems in Arizona: 1. System Size The size of your solar panel system is the most significant factor influencing its cost. Larger systems require more panels and labor, driving up the price. Smaller systems, though less e ..read more