The 33% rule in solar refers to a general guideline that solar panels should not exceed 33% shade coverage during peak sun hours (typically 9 AM to 3 PM) for optimal performance.

Here’s what this means:

Performance Impact: When solar panels are shaded by more than 33%, their energy production can drop dramatically – sometimes by 50% or more, depending on the type of shading and panel configuration.

Shading Sources: Common sources include trees, buildings, chimneys, or other roof structures that cast shadows on the panels during peak sunlight hours.

System Design: Solar installers use this rule when designing systems to determine optimal panel placement and whether certain roof sections should be avoided.

Bypass Diodes: Modern panels have bypass diodes that help minimize the impact of partial shading, but the 33% rule remains a useful planning guideline.

Alternative Solutions: If shading is unavoidable, power optimizers or microinverters can help maximize production from partially shaded systems.

Las Vegas residents have access to several valuable solar incentives:

Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) offers significant savings for Las Vegas solar installations: 30% of the total system cost can be claimed as a federal tax credit. This applies to the full cost including equipment, installation, and permits for Las Vegas solar projects. The credit remains at 30% through 2032, then decreases to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.

Net Metering: Nevada’s net metering program allows solar customers to receive credits for excess energy sent back to the grid. While rates have been reduced from previous years, customers still receive compensation for surplus production.

Property Tax Exemption: Nevada law exempts the added value of solar installations from property tax assessments, meaning you won’t pay additional property taxes on the increased home value from solar.

No State Income Tax: Nevada has no state income tax, so the full federal tax credit benefit applies without state tax complications for Las Vegas solar customers.

Utility Rebates: While NV Energy’s rebate programs have largely ended, some special programs occasionally become available for specific customer types or technologies.

Local Incentives: Some local municipalities may offer additional incentives or expedited permitting for solar installations.

Selling a house with solar panels can present challenges, though many are manageable with proper preparation:

Financing Complications: The biggest issue occurs with leased solar systems or solar loans that haven’t been paid off:

Solar Leases: Buyers must qualify to assume the lease or the seller must pay it off

Solar Loans: Outstanding loan balances must be addressed at closing

Owned Systems: Fully owned systems actually increase home value and appeal

Buyer Education: Many potential buyers don’t understand solar benefits:

Concerns about maintenance and repairs

Uncertainty about energy savings

Lack of knowledge about warranties and system performance

Appraisal Challenges can arise when evaluating properties with Las Vegas solar systems.: Some appraisers struggle to properly value solar installations:

Inconsistent valuation methods

Limited comparable sales data is available for Las Vegas solar installations, which can impact market assessments.

Newer technology that some appraisers aren’t familiar with

Solutions to Ease Sales:

Provide detailed system performance data and savings documentation

Ensure all warranties are transferable

Work with real estate agents experienced with solar homes

Consider paying off solar loans before listing

Get a solar appraisal to establish proper value

Market Trends: The solar resale market is improving as solar becomes more mainstream, with many buyers now specifically seeking homes with solar installations for the energy savings and environmental benefits.