Solar energy is becoming the choice of most homes and businesses, and like all energy sources, solar energy has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of solar energy.
1. Solar energy can greatly reduce or eliminate your electric bill
The first benefit of solar panels is very simple – when you install solar for your home, you generate your own electricity, reducing your reliance on electricity and thus your monthly electric bill. Solar panel systems typically have a lifespan of 25 to 35 years, which means you can reduce your electricity costs for decades to come by going solar. This year’s energy crisis has brought rising electricity costs to many homes, and installing solar energy can better combat these crises and reduce losses.
2. Solar increases the value of your home
Millions of U.S. residents are interested in home solar panels, but don’t understand how it will affect their homes. Recent studies have shown that installing a solar system can increase the value of your home by about four percent. So, even if you plan to move in the near future, you can recoup your solar panel investment when you sell your home and then make some back. Whether you’ve been there for years or just moved into a new home, installing solar is a good investment for most homeowners.3. Solar Energy Reduces Carbon Emissions
Solar energy is a renewable energy source that can help reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions and lower your impact on the environment. Unlike traditional fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas, solar energy does not directly release pollutants that contribute to climate change, such as carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere and water supply. Even when compared to nuclear energy, solar energy ranks among the best in terms of environmental impact.4. Solar power can be “sold” back to the grid
Depending on where you live, you can use net metering. Net metering is an electricity billing tool that uses the grid to “store” the excess energy produced by the solar panel system. Basically, you will be able to sell the excess solar energy produced by the solar panels to your utility company in exchange for a reduced utility bill.
5. Solar is the most versatile form of alternative energy
Unlike other types of alternative energy sources such as wind, which requires wide open spaces, ample wind variability, and large water sources for hydroelectric power, solar is an energy source that can be implemented in almost any environment.6. Solar can pay you as you recoup your investment
Thanks to many solar incentives in some states, solar panels can actually generate a profit for you in addition to generating bill savings to pay off the cost of the system. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) reimburse you for the electricity your solar panel system generates. If you live in a state where this incentive applies, you can expect immediate and long-term returns from your solar investment.
7. Solar is a low maintenance energy source
When panels are installed, they require little maintenance compared to other forms of energy production. With no moving parts, your panels may only require occasional cleaning after snow or inclement weather.Disadvantages
1. Solar panels are not suitable for all types of roofs
Rooftop solar panels are installed by attaching a mounting system (also called a “rack”) to the roof. Some roofing materials used in older or historic homes, such as slate or cedar shingles, can be difficult for solar installers to use, creating obstacles to solar power generation.
2. Solar panels do not work at night
Solar panels need light in order to absorb energy from the sun. Solar panels need light to absorb the energy from the sun, which means they don’t work at night. However, by pairing a solar system with energy storage, you can use the excess energy produced by solar panels during the day and store it in solar cells, even if there is no sunlight. If you live in a net metering state, the excess energy generated is sold back to the grid to offset your electricity bill.
While the upfront cost is high, using solar energy is worth it: in most cases, the advantages of solar energy will far outweigh the disadvantages. Solar is an increasingly affordable renewable energy source that can help you reduce your greenhouse gas emissions while saving a lot of money on your electricity bill. maysun solar is a professional solar panel manufacturer, so please contact us for more information and a quote if you need one.