Ridgewood  
Project 1000 Acres
Ridgewood  
Project 1000 Acres
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  • More
    • Home
    • About
    • Newsletters
    • Earth Day
    • Project 1000 Acres
    • Take Action!
      • Get Your Rain Barrel
      • Build a Rain Garden
      • Conserve Water
      • Try Solar
      • Get Home Energy Rebates
      • Read Our Roadmap
      • Minimize Flooding
      • Reduce Leaf Blowing
      • Save Costs with EVs
  • Home
  • About
  • Newsletters
  • Earth Day
  • Project 1000 Acres
  • Take Action!
    • Get Your Rain Barrel
    • Build a Rain Garden
    • Conserve Water
    • Try Solar
    • Get Home Energy Rebates
    • Read Our Roadmap
    • Minimize Flooding
    • Reduce Leaf Blowing
    • Save Costs with EVs

Solar Power

Demystifying Solar

Curious About Solar? Here's What You Need to Know:

There’s a lot of confusion about solar energy. Is it free? Will it work during blackouts? Will it raise or lower my home’s value? What exactly is community solar? Can I install panels on my property instead of my roof? And how do tax credits come into play?


Let’s clear things up:

Why Go Solar?

βœ… Lower Energy Bills – 

Reduce or even eliminate your electricity costs
βœ… Eco-Friendly – 

Cut your carbon footprint with clean, renewable power
βœ… Energy Independence – 

Generate your own power and reduce reliance on the grid
βœ… Increase Property Value – 

Homes with solar panels are more attractive to buyers
βœ… Tax Incentives & Rebates – 

Take advantage of government incentives to save even more

How Solar Works

🌞 Sunlight Absorption – 

Solar panels capture energy from the sun
⚑ Energy Conversion – 

The system converts sunlight into usable electricity
πŸ”‹ Power Your Home – 

Use solar energy for daily electricity needs
πŸ”„ Sell Excess Power –

Feed extra energy back to the grid for credits or storage

Does Solar Make Sense for You?

Maybe! But it depends on several factors: Your roof’s orientation and shading, nearby trees or buildings, your electricity usage, and more. An installer or knowledgeable contractor can help answer questions.

What About Community Solar?

Community solar from your local utility can be a good alternative if your roof isn’t suitable or you don’t own the property. But it’s very important to read the fine print in terms of your expected financial savings (typically modest), contract terms, escalation clauses, etc.

Can I Install Panels on My Property (Instead of the Roof)?

Often not, due to local zoning restrictions. But if you have enough space, it could be possible. 

Does Solar Increase My Home’s Value?

Yes. According to Zillow, homes with solar sell for about 4.1% more on average nationwide. In New Jersey, that premium is closer to 5-6%.

Will Solar Work During a Blackout?

Not unless you also install battery storage. Most solar systems are "grid-tied" and automatically shut off during a power outage to protect utility workers.

How Do I Choose the Right Installer?

Β· Look for highly rated, local installers

Β· Avoid companies that subcontract

Β· Choose someone who offers both product warranties and service guarantees

Β· Ask if they include a production guarantee

How Do I Pay for It?

Cash purchase, solar loan, lease, or power purchase agreement (PPA). A reputable installer will explain which option best fits your needs and goals.

If you’re considering a loan through a solar company, be aware it may include a β€œdealer fee.” This is an added cost built into the total system price. It can significantly affect your long-term savings, so it's important to ask for a full breakdown of costs before committing. You’ll save the most by paying cash.

Who Handles the Permits and Paperwork?

Your installer should take care of all permitting and interconnection paperwork with your town and utility company.

Bottom Line

If your home or business is a good fit for solar, it can be a win-winβ€”good for the environment and potentially great for your wallet.

Connect With Us

Greenridgewoodnj.org is an independently run website that supports the objectives of Green Ridgewood. 

This website will be used to recruit members and volunteers, support Green Ridgewood and Green Team projects and initiatives, and to educate the public. ​


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