Allow me to take you through the solar energy advantages and disadvantages – it may help you make your mind to opt-in this renewable energy resource. A switch to clean energy sources like solar power helps fight the increasing risk of global warming. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy does not hurt the environment. By using solar energy for your home, you definitely free yourself from the rising utility rates.
Interesting facts about solar energy
a. Solar power is a renewable energy source until the sun dies, which is not going to happen any time soon.
b. As more people choose solar energy, there are chances of reducing pollution.
c. If you switch to solar panels, then you get to save huge money on electricity bills – that is like earning a monthly bonus.
d. Solar energy panels add value to your house.
Advantages
– Pollution-free energy source
– Promising return on investment
– Freedom from city power supply and utilities
– Flexible installation
Disadvantages
– High setup cost
– Demands plenty of space
– Requires a battery back
– Requires expensive solar-powered devices
– Poor power output during winters
Advantages of solar energy
Pollution-free
I am sure you are aware of the immense pollution caused by traditional energy sources – like coal or petroleum. Remember the backup generator set from your childhood and the smelly black smoke.
Now, unlike conventional polluting energy sources, solar energy is clean – it does not emit any greenhouse gases, no smoke, no smell. The solar technology promises minimum Carbon footprint, so the risk of damage to the environment is close to zero.
Return on Investment
There is no doubt that that you save up a significant amount on your power bills. And, believe this here – over and above the savings, you might also enjoy excellent returns by installing solar panels. Lots of state governments offer tax credits to homeowners. Is this encouraging you to install solar energy panels? Imagine, lower power bill with lesser tax. Now, that’s a win-win.
Maintenance-free for up to 30 years
One of the most significant advantages of solar energy panels is durability. A typical solar panel can last up to 25-30 years with almost no maintenance. All you got to do is clean the dust gathered on the solar panels, and that’s it. You see, regular dusting ensures the silicon panel receives a maximum amount of exposure to sun rays. If you don’t clean the dust regularly, then it can deter the panel’s ability to absorb sunlight. Thus, cleaning the dirt from the panel is essential. But other than that, the solar panel installation doesn’t ask for much of maintenance or upkeep.
Free from City Power utilities
When your home gets solar power installation, you become less dependent on the city’s electricity supply. As you generate your electricity, the monthly power bill gets reduced. A solar panel lasts for 25 years or more. The long-life means that with solar energy, you are all set to save electricity costs for decades to come.
Flexible installation
Yes, a solar panel can be installed anywhere that receives enough sunlight for a maximum number of hours. Panels that face south practically generate more electricity. But, your solar panels can also be placed in the east or west direction.
Disadvantages of solar energy
High setup cost
Usually, an average-sized solar panel produces 4Kw and 8Kw of power. Now if you live in a 2 or 3 bedroom home, your power needs are more than 8Kw. So, the spend on solar panel home kit is higher. Typical solar panel costs include mounting of the device, wiring, installation, maintenance costs for a specific time. Not to miss, your solar panel installation will also require a battery back up equipment. The price is high, but government subsidies are available to bring down the expense.
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Demands a lot of space
To mount solar panels, you need a large surface area. For a regular home, the space requirement may pose a problem. The roof of your home can be small and cosy, or maybe there is no roof access at all. Also, if the roof is not a strong structure, it can’t hold the weight of a solar panel. To add more, if you share a common rooftop with your neighbour, then installing these devices might be a concern.
Requires a battery bank
Here is a common fact – solar devices cannot work in the night when there is no sunlight. Therefore, you need a battery bank to store the solar energy received during the daytime. But, again, a solar battery backup device with the capacity to save a vast amount for solar energy is highly expensive.
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Solar-powered devices are expensive
Although installing solar-powered devices is a smart financial investment, the cost of these devices is very high. The price may also vary depending on the brand you choose. There are cheap solar panels in the market, but they generally come with no or less warranty period.
Lesser power during winters
Solar panels are less effective in winters. You may know that during winters, the sun is lower in the sky, and its light does not hit the panels at a right angle. So, the power generation is less in this season. Also, during winters, the days are shorter than summers, so the amount of sun’s exposure on your solar panel is less.
Solar is the future
For a brighter and cleaner future, the solution is solar energy!!! Despite the solar energy advantages and disadvantages, many of us resist the switch to this better energy source. With solar panels, the majority of these shortcomings are technical. So as it is with all new technologies, the solar energy panels are also upgrading. The technical demerits are being resolved, and technological innovation is progressing. Soon enough solar energy will have more advantages for you in future.
Today, our government is offering many subsidies. It may be cheaper to switch to solar power today than later. So, let’s do our bit to save the planet.