Retirees on Fixed Incomes Can Save Hundreds with These Small Plug-In Solar Panels — But There’s a Catch
Solar panels have long been touted as a way to reduce energy costs while participating in the green revolution, but high costs have been a barrier for many people. It’s expensive to put solar panels on a roof, and this process may even require that you replace your entire roof first, which can negate the cost savings.
Consider This: 11 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000
Discover More: 9 Downsizing Tips for the Middle Class To Save on Monthly Expenses
That’s why modular plug-in solar panels are attracting many people. They’re easily portable, which makes them a viable option for renters who don’t own the property and individuals who want solar panel but have limited fixed incomes.
A PBS NewsHour segment highlighted the demand for this renewable energy resource while mentioning one catch to keep in mind.
Plug-in solar panels are more affordable than rooftop installations, which makes it easier to gradually build a small fleet. This model makes solar power more accessible and has already become a major energy source in Europe.
A single plug-in solar panels won’t be enough to wipe away your energy bill, but each panel can trim your costs. The total amount you would need to eliminate utility bills will depend on your total energy consumption and other factors. Experts said that a single 300 to 400-watt system can reduce electricity use by 5% to 15%, according to Better Homes & Gardens.
You can gradually chip away your energy costs with plug-in solar panels instead of having to choose between no solar panels and a rooftop installation that can wipe away all of your monthly energy costs.
Read Next: I’m a Financial Planner — Cut These 7 Hidden Expenses To Save Hundreds a Month
Although plug-in solar panels are a lot less complex than rooftop installations, owners must comply with regulations and pay fees as if they were setting up a rooftop system. Utah is the only state that has passed regulation that will allow plug-in solar panels with no registration when certain safety standards and codes are set.
Similar legislation is in the works in other states, but that roadblock makes this technology more difficult to access. However, the PBS video report said that not all customers are waiting for regulators. Plug-in solar panels have many built-in safety features and plenty of successful use cases in Europe, which makes people eager to set them up in the U.S. to save on their energy bills.