As an expert in the energy industry, I have seen firsthand the impact of rising electricity costs on homeowners in Bartow County, Georgia. With an average cost of $0.12 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), residents are feeling the strain on their monthly utility bills. But with the rise of solar companies in the county, there is a more affordable and sustainable option for homeowners to consider.
The Cost of Electricity in Bartow County
Bartow County, located in northwest Georgia, is home to over 100,000 residents and is served by two major electric providers - Georgia Power and Amicalola Electric Membership Corporation (EMC). According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average cost of electricity per kWh in Bartow County is slightly higher than the national average at $0.12. While this may not seem like a significant difference, it can add up quickly for households that use a lot of electricity. For example, a household that uses 1,000 kWh per month would pay an average of $120 for their electricity bill in Bartow County, compared to $100 in other parts of the country.
The Rise of Solar Companies in Bartow County
With the increasing cost of electricity, many homeowners in Bartow County are turning to solar energy as a more affordable and sustainable option. Solar companies have been popping up all over the county, offering residents the opportunity to install solar panels on their homes and generate their own electricity. One of the main advantages of solar energy is that it is a renewable resource.Unlike traditional sources of energy such as coal or natural gas, solar energy does not produce harmful emissions that contribute to climate change. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option for homeowners in Bartow County. Another advantage of solar energy is that it can help homeowners save money on their monthly utility bills. By generating their own electricity, homeowners can reduce their reliance on the grid and avoid the rising costs of traditional energy sources. In fact, according to data from the Solar Energy Industries Association, the average homeowner in Georgia can save over $20,000 over 20 years by switching to solar energy.
The Cost of Installing Solar Panels
While the long-term savings of solar energy are appealing, many homeowners in Bartow County are hesitant to make the switch due to the upfront cost of installing solar panels.The average cost of a residential solar system in Georgia is between $10,000 and $15,000, depending on the size and type of system. However, there are several incentives and rebates available to help offset the cost of installing solar panels. The federal government offers a 26% tax credit for homeowners who install solar panels on their homes. In addition, Georgia offers a state tax credit of up to $5,000 for residential solar installations. Furthermore, many solar companies in Bartow County offer financing options to help make the upfront cost more manageable for homeowners. These financing options often have low interest rates and flexible payment plans, making it easier for homeowners to make the switch to solar energy.
The Future of Solar Energy in Bartow County
As the cost of electricity continues to rise and the benefits of solar energy become more apparent, it is likely that we will see an increase in the number of solar companies in Bartow County.In fact, according to a report by the Solar Foundation, Georgia is expected to add over 4,000 new solar jobs by 2021. With the rise of solar companies, homeowners in Bartow County will have more options when it comes to choosing their energy source. This competition may also lead to lower prices for solar installations, making it even more affordable for residents.
In Conclusion
The average cost of electricity per kWh in Bartow County, Georgia is $0.12, which is slightly higher than the national average. As a result, many homeowners are turning to solar energy as a more affordable and sustainable option. While the upfront cost of installing solar panels may seem daunting, there are several incentives and financing options available to help offset the cost.With the future looking bright for solar energy in Bartow County, it may be time for homeowners to consider making the switch to this renewable and cost-effective energy source.
