In the United States, solar power installations have increased over 35x since 2008 and prices for panels have dropped by 50%.
If you’ve considered having solar energy serve as a supplement or baseline for your energy needs, there has never been a better time to weigh your options.
Solar Energy
What is solar energy? Solar energy is power that is drawn from the Sun, through the use of solar panels. That energy is then converted to electricity and either used up, or stored by way of battery systems. In order to determine if solar energy is right for you, let’s look at solar energy pros and cons.
Advantages of Solar Power
Let’s take a look at the advantages to using solar energy. These advantages are often reasons why people choose to make the switch.
The Environment
Using solar power comes with a few distinct advantages. One of the most common reasons people make the switch is to protect the environment. Solar panels can last for decades, with very little degradation in how they function. This means that you can have a solar power system saving you money for years.
Save Money
Solar power will save you money. You can save tens of thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your solar energy system. You won’t be as exposed to the random fluctuations of energy costs. In some cases, you may not have to use normal power at all. That brings in more options for you.
Low Maintenance
Due to the longevity of solar energy systems, maintenance is not a primary concern. Once you get your solar power system set up, it is there to stay. There aren’t hidden maintenance needs that you haven’t heard of, it really is as simple as it sounds.
Use It Anywhere
No matter where you live, or where you want to live, solar energy can help you. It can be used not just for your main residence, but also for vacation homes, sheds, workshops and the list goes on. Instead of paying for expensive utility hookups and monthly bills, solar can work just fine in many applications.
The Disadvantages of Solar Power
You may think that with all these advantages there are no disadvantages. That isn’t the case. As with everything, there are some things you may want to consider before you decide to make the switch.
Introductory Costs
One of the biggest disadvantages to solar energy is the cost to have the initial setup and installation. While the costs have been going down, they are still considerable. The system may save you tens of thousands of dollars in the long run, but you will have to make an investment at first.
Area and Weather
Solar panels and systems require that you have some space available. You will also be largely reliant on weather. If your system is shaded, or you have several days of cloudy skies, the system may not produce the amount of power that you want.
Advantages vs Disadvantages
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy to determine if it is the right choice for you. Financing and other options can help cushion the blow, and with the increased property values and lifetime savings, most people find that switching to solar energy is the best choice for them.
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