Self-Reliance: Your Trusted Guide to Solar Installations
For over 30 years, Self-Reliance has been helping people make informed decisions about solar energy. We’re committed to connecting you with the right installer and ownership model that fits your needs and budget.
Why Solar?
Solar electric systems (also called photovoltaics or PV) are a smart investment. They typically pay for themselves in less than four years through savings on your electric bill. Plus, incentives make solar even more affordable.
When you invest in solar, you’re not just buying electricity; you’re securing long-term savings. Once your system is paid off, the electricity it generates is essentially free. How often do you get that kind of deal with an appliance?
How We Can Help
We recommend gathering three proposals from solar installation companies. Once you have them, reach out to us. We’ll help you compare the proposals side-by-side and identify the best fit for your situation.
We also encourage working with local companies to keep your dollars circulating within the community. Studies show that local businesses recirculate more of each dollar, supporting the local economy and creating jobs.
Recommended Local Installers
Here are some trusted local solar companies we refer to our members:
- Cotuit Solar – 508-428-8442
- Eastern Sun – 508-776-6305
- My Generation Energy – 508-694-9692
- SolarRising – 508-774-6284
- E2 Solar – 508-694-7889
Tax Credit and Incentives
As of November 2024, there is an uncapped 30% federal tax credit for rooftop solar installations. This is a great opportunity to make solar more affordable.
For more information on financing models and solar incentives, we recommend visiting Cape Light Compact’s Solar Resources.
Also, check out Rewiring America’s Guide to the Inflation Reduction Act to learn about other household electrification incentives that may apply to you.
Let Us Help You Make the Right Choice
Once you receive your proposals, contact us to schedule a review. We’ll help you evaluate your options and ensure you choose the best solution for your home and budget.
Turn your electric bill over and you will see a snap shot of your electricity usage for the past 13 months. Add twelve months together and you will have your annual usage. 1 kW of PV produces about 1250 kWh/year here. If you divide your annual usage by 1250, you will have the size (in kilowatts) of the system you need to fulfill 100% of your current electricity needs.
You also need to account for the value of the electricity that you are no longer paying to the electric company and keeping in your pocket. Further, each kilowatt-hour your system generates can be turned into income by signing a contract for the Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). On average, the system pays for itself in about 4 1/2 years, then you have free electricity and positive income from the SREC contract.
* These figures provide an overview and do not constitute professional tax advice. Please consult with your tax professional to obtain tax information that pertains to your individual tax status.
“I just wanted to extend my thanks for your assistance in helping us chose a solar company to install solar paneling at our home. We checked with a couple of companies and found your assistance extremely helpful, especially since you are a solar customer. We decided to go local because we are buying the network and found a $5000 discrepancy between a national company and one based here on Cape Cod. Not only was there such a large gap in price but the national company was producing 1000 less watt hours. My feeling is they were not interested in “selling” the system to us. We are looking forward to lower electric bills in the years to come and the added bonus of receiving SREC payments. Thanks again and feel free to pass my name along to anyone that would like to know about my experience. Keep up the great work.
