So you live in the northeast…PV is perfect for you!

One of the things we most frequently hear at Earthsponse is: Is it worth installing solar panels on my home? I live in upstate NY and the sun rarely shines! The answer to that question is most definitely yes! It is more than worth it. Solar panels can work in all types of weather conditions, and actually perform better in the colder weather. This is because the cold temperatures cause an increase in the conductivity of metal and wires. In fact, PV systems in the northeast region produce roughly 5-10% higher energy output than PV systems in southern states. Of course, this doesn’t mean that southern states shouldn’t invest in solar. The vast space, little obstruction, and constant sunlight make the south a hot spot for solar.

Germany is a great example that constant warm weather isn’t needed for successful solar energy production. Geographically, Germany’s latitude is about the same level as that of North Dakota, a state not typically thought of as an ideal solar spot. And Germany is the world leader in solar! Germany accounted for over 50% of solar installations in the world last year.

Another great reason to think about solar in the northeast is the incentives. The states with SREC markets are primarily in the northeast. (Check out our previous post “SREC FAQs” to learn more!) Massachusetts and New Jersey are the two states with the highest SREC values of any state. There are also utility rebates and state tax credits to take advantage of in various different states that could cover a large portion of the install cost. To find out what state specific incentives you can take advantage of visit: http://dsireusa.org/solar/index.cfm?ee=1&RE=1&spf=1&st=1

-Lisa Dougherty