Consider These Pros And Cons Of Solar Panels As An Alternative Energy Source
If you're aiming to reduce your carbon footprint and reduce your reliance on the utility companies, then one option you may be considering is solar panels. They have certainly gained popularly as an alternative energy source in recent years, and for many homeowners, they are an affordable and effective option. However, it's always important to consider both the pros and the cons of any alternative energy source before you make an investment. Here's what you need to know.
Pros:
1. Solar energy is unlimited.
One reason why solar energy is such a great alternative power source is that it's unlimited. The sun won't just stop shining one day, so you're not depleting any resources by capturing it and converting it to electricity. Your use of solar panels won't affect your neighbors' abilities to also capture and use this resource. You won't prevent future generations from being able to harness and use solar power, either.
2. Solar energy does not cause pollution.
Though there will be some pollution released during the manufacture and transportation of your solar panels, this is very minimal when compared to the pollution generated from other power sources -- like burning coal or oil. The actual act of capturing solar energy and converting it to electricity does not release carbon dioxide, VOCs, smoke, or any other substances.
3. Electricity you produce can be fed back into the grid.
Some people choose not to connect their homes to "the grid" when they have solar power. They simply connect their solar panels to the electrical appliances in their homes, and use a battery to store any extra electricity they produce for later use. However, you also have the option of remaining connected to the grid and simply feeding any extra electricity your solar panels produce into the power grid. Your utility company will track how much power you put into the grid versus the amount that your home draws. You'll get paid for the extra power you contribute above and beyond what you use.
4. Solar panels can be placed on the roof.
Some alternative energy sources, like windmills, occupy a lot of space, so they're really not an option unless you own a lot of land. Solar panels, however, can be mounted on the roof, so they're out of the way. You can, of course, place additional panels in a field if you do have the space.
Cons:
1. Solar panels have a high up-front cost.
Even though you'll save money on your electricity bill once they're in place, solar panels have quite a high up-front cost. A small solar energy system can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $15,000, and if you want a system that produces all of the energy your home needs, you may pay over $16,000. There are tax incentives that may reduce the cost somewhat, but you'll still need to ensure you have plenty of cash in your budget.
2. When the sun does not shine, you're not generating power.
If you live in a really sunny area where the sun is always shining, then solar panels are very effective. However, if you live in a more temperate climate where cloud cover is more common, then your panels may not generate a lot of electricity on some days. You also need to consider the position of your roof. If the roof is often in the shade, then solar panels may not be the best choice for you.
To learn more about solar panels, reach out to a company that installs them. They can give you an estimate for the cost, which should help you make an informed decision. For more information, contact companies like AAA Solar Source.
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