ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR ENERGY
The more we can reap the benefits of solar energy, the less we will depend on fossil fuels. By adding a solar energy system to your home, you can enjoy these solar energy benefits:
Solar energy is a renewable energy source and reduces carbon emissions
Solar energy is a renewable energy source, meaning you never use it. Solar energy is clean. It produces no carbon emissions or other heat-trapping "greenhouse" gases. It avoids the environmental damage associated with mining or drilling for fossil fuels. Moreover, solar energy also uses little or no water, unlike power plants that generate electricity using steam turbines.
Solar energy can reduce your home's electricity bill
A solar energy system for your home can reduce your dependence on the grid and help you save on your electricity bills. Some owners of residential solar energy systems may also have excess power that they can sell to the utility. Instead of paying the utility for electricity, homeowners pay through the utility. You don't need to buy an entire solar energy system to reduce your home's electricity bill. To help save money, choose solar-powered lights instead of just your home's electrical system.
Homes with solar panels can improve home value
DISADVANTAGES OF SOLAR ENERGY
As the industry progresses and develops, the disadvantages of solar power diminish, creating economies of scale. Technological advances are helping solar go mainstream. Here are the pros and cons of solar energy and how they stack up.
High initial cost to install the panels
The most commonly cited disadvantage of solar power, cost, is decreasing as the industry expands. The initial cost to purchase and install the equipment is not cheap. However, if cost is an issue, leasing options can reduce the amount of your initial outlay. If you choose to buy, you will need to live in your home for several years before the system pays for itself. It is a long-term investment that is more suitable for property owners than renters.
Solar energy storage is expensive
Among the disadvantages of solar energy, the main point is the temporary reduction in energy production during bad weather. Low solar days, however, are having less of an impact due to advances in battery technology. Older technologies for storing solar energy, such as lead acid batteries, are being replaced by alternatives. Lithium ion batteries offer more power at a lower cost. Nickel based batteries have a very long life. New technologies, such as flow batteries, promise scale and sustainable power storage.
Solar does not work for every type of roof
Not every room will do well with solar panels. Orientation matters. If your roof doesn't face the sun, you won't get enough solar energy. Roofs angled towards the sun work better than flat roofs.
Roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal and tiles make it easy to install solar panels. If your room is made of other materials, installation may be more expensive. Part of what makes roofs energy-efficient is their ability to support solar panels.
Solar panels are based on sunlight
It is clear that solar panels need sunlight to generate electricity. They will not produce electricity at night when you need light and may be ineffective on stormy and overcast days. If you plan to rely entirely on solar energy to power your home, your solar energy system needs batteries.Disadvantages of solar energy
As the industry progresses and develops, the disadvantages of solar power diminish, creating economies of scale. Technological advances are helping solar go mainstream. Here are the pros and cons of solar energy and how they stack up.
Solar energy is our future.
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