Letter: Going solar saved us money — and the federal tax credits made it possible

We installed solar panels on our home in 2019, and it’s one of the best decisions we’ve made — not just because we support clean energy, but for our finances. Because of the clean energy tax credits, we were able to afford the upfront cost. Without that support, going solar wouldn’t have been possible.

Since then, over the past six years, I’ve saved about $4,000 on my electricity bills. The panels have already paid for themselves faster than I expected, and now it sure helps my cash flow to have a monthly electricity bill that is $50 less than before solar. As our region’s natural gas supply dwindles and we are slow to identify alternative energy sources, it’s empowering to take some personal control over our energy independence and hedge against future rate increases.

These tax credits are essential to help Alaska families take control of our energy use, save money, and invest in sustainable solutions. Rolling them back would take that opportunity away from countless families and businesses who want to make the same smart choice.

We urge our congressional leaders to continue protecting these programs so that more Alaskans can invest in renewable energy solutions that meet their needs.

— Danny Consenstein, Anchorage

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