New Roof, Free Power: How to Upgrade with Solar

Homeowners anticipating a roof replacement have plenty of reasons to consider upgrading with a solar energy system. Installing solar panels during a roof replacement can encourage more efficient installation, reduced costs, and a lower risk of disruptions in the future. By streamlining the installation process and aligning the lifespans of your roof and solar array, you may enjoy greater savings and a faster return on your investment. 

Financial Benefits of Installing Solar During a Roof Replacement

Solar energy savings can begin before you ever receive your first utility bill. Here are the notable financial incentives to consider: 

Federal Tax Credits

The Residential Clean Energy Credit offers a 30% federal tax credit on solar installations between 2022 and 2032. Homeowners who install a qualifying renewable energy system can significantly offset the initial costs by filing Form 5695 along with their federal taxes. Rebate amounts will decrease to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034, so putting off this sustainable addition could cost you. 

Other tax credits, like the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit or Residential Clean Energy Credit, are financial incentives that may cover energy-efficient home renovations. For instance, solar roofing tiles that reduce your energy consumption and benefits the environment may qualify you for rebates like the Residential Clean Energy Credit. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact a trusted tax professional or solar specialist to walk you through the process. 

State and Local Incentives

Many states — like Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, and more — offer additional incentives and rebates, including clean energy grants and property tax exemptions to further reduce overall investment costs. These benefits vary by location, and states with aggressive sustainability initiatives typically offer more substantial financial perks. State governments and utility companies may provide specific incentives for sustainable roof replacements, enhancing your savings potential. 

Increased Property Value

Data has shown that homes equipped with solar panels often increase in value. In fact, houses with solar energy systems may sell for 6.8% more than fully grid-dependent properties. Many potential buyers prefer energy-efficient homes, and the allure of long-term savings and reduced carbon footprints is a major selling point. 

Enhanced Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The benefits of installing solar during a roof replacement extend far beyond discounts on your initial investment, and include long-term savings and improved sustainability. 

Reduced Energy Bills

Installing solar with a roof replacement can help you maximize energy savings and make the most of your investment. On its own, a solar panel array can reduce your monthly utility bills by 20% to 100%, and installing it on a new, energy-efficient roof can boost savings and deliver a faster return on your investment. If your utility company offers a net metering program, you may enjoy even more significant savings by selling surplus energy back to your electrical provider. 

Environmental Benefits

Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that reduces your carbon footprint and contributes positively to the environment. ​By installing solar with a roof replacement, you double down on sustainability. A new roof that retains less heat may reduce your home’s overall energy consumption, so your solar array can offset a greater percentage of grid-sourced electricity.

What You Need to Know About Solar Tax Credits & Incentives

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Design and Structural Considerations of Installing Solar During a Roof Replacement

Before installing a solar panel system with a roof replacement, consider the qualities of your existing roof and how you might improve them for enhanced solar compatibility. 

Optimal Roof Design

A roof replacement is an excellent opportunity to optimize your home for maximum solar efficiency. Redesigning your roof’s layout to achieve the ideal orientation and tilt can drastically enhance your solar array’s energy potential for the highest possible output. Of course, this undertaking will require more time, effort, and financial resources, but the payoff is worth it for many. In some cases, your investment may qualify you for additional tax incentives. 

Material Compatibility

Some roofing materials are more compatible with solar installations, and choosing the right one can improve durability and performance.​ While asphalt shingles are economical and work well with solar, they may not be the most efficient solution, as they tend to diminish energy production by trapping excess heat. Metal roofing is a great alternative that reflects more sunlight and serves as an ideal base for mounting hardware. 

Choosing the Right Installation Partner

When installing solar panels with a roof replacement, knowledgeable experts can help ensure a smooth installation process. 

Integrated Services

Finding a qualified, experienced solar installation company that also replaces roofing may be possible, but these businesses are hard to come by. While these companies can offer warranty compatibility and cost-efficiency, those qualities aren’t limited to professionals who offer both services. Remember, you don’t just want a partner who can do a mediocre job at both tasks – your new roof and solar array should each be expertly crafted and installed for optimal performance. The right solar installation specialist will have the experience and knowledge to seamlessly coordinate with a roofing team. 

Experience and Certifications

How can you know if your solar installer and roofing company are qualified to work on your home and deliver high-quality results? A little research into the certifications held by each business can help you make an informed decision. 

Solar installation specialists should be certified by North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) or be members of Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Roofing companies must be licensed with the state and may hold various manufacturer certifications. Both teams should be fully insured and be able to provide verifiable references upon request. 

Long-Term Solar Energy Maintenance and Warranties

Installing a roof replacement with solar can also offer benefits regarding warranties and your home’s overall resiliency. 

Unified Warranties

Combining a roof replacement and solar installation may give you access to unified warranties, simplifying future maintenance and providing peace of mind.​ In some cases, comprehensive coverage can protect both solar infrastructure and roofing materials in the event of defects, leaks, or issues stemming from installation. 

However, even warranties from individual installation companies can safeguard your investments and provide lasting protection. For example, Solar Energy World’s Triple Platinum 30-Year Warranty covers labor on service-related issues, rodent damage, leak repairs from damage caused by installation, and more. And, in the event that you require a new roof within 10 years of installation, it will even cover the costs of disassembling and reinstalling your solar panel array. 

Durability and Longevity

Aligning the lifespans of your roof and solar array is one of the greatest benefits of installing solar during a roof replacement. A new solar panel system has a lifespan of 25 years or more. Depending on the materials, a new roof may last between 15 and 100+ years. Placing a solar panel array on an aging roof can cause a number of issues, including diminished structural integrity and voided warranties. Since solar panels have such long lifespans, you’ll want to ensure your roof can support your array for decades to come. 

Solar panels may even extend the lifespan of your roof by blocking UV rays that can break down materials and protecting the surface from hail, ice, and airborne debris. 

Learn How a Roof Replacement with Solar Can Benefit You

Ready to enjoy the long-term benefits of installing solar during a roof replacement? The industry experts at Solar Energy World will gladly work with your roofing company, or help you find a trusted roofing specialist, to ensure seamless installation and help you make the most of your investment. Get started today with a free solar estimate!