With the rising costs of fossil and other non-renewable fuel sources, more and more people are looking for alternatives. Solar power is growing every year in popularity. If you are considering switching to solar power, you have likely heard some pros and cons about it. That’s normal. Here are a few to help you make up your mind on solar energy.
Pros of Solar Power
When it comes to the pros and cons of solar power, the pros will always outweigh the cons.
Cost
This is always a good reason and one that people use as a deciding point.
The solar panels are more popular every year, which means they are coming down in price. There are also government incentives for using them so that will also help.
The sun is free. It just sits and watches us spin and heats us up and why shouldn’t we use the energy it produces? It is versatile, too. It can be used for heating and for running electricity.
They also help you save money on your energy bills. If your state allows net metering, you save even more. Net metering lets homeowners sell their excess stored solar energy back to the utility company.
Cleaner and Renewable
Another big seller for switching to solar energy is that is a truly renewable energy source. It is being harnessed in all areas of the world and is available every day. We cannot run out of solar energy so we never have to wait for it.
Low Maintenance
Unlike other energy sources, there is very little maintenance needed on the panels are installed. They are often guaranteed to last upwards of 25 years, so as long as they are kept clean or replaced when needed, they will just do their job.
Cons of Solar Power
There will be downsides to using solar power. Mostly, down to cost and location.
Cost
The initial cost of installation can be quite steep. There is the labor, the panels, the wiring, and batteries. However, as mentioned before, there are not only government incentives, the prices are coming down. The return on your investment should cover any upfront costs, anyhow.
The storage batteries can also be costly. These batteries are for use for off the grid when you charge them all day for use at night. Many people just use the power off the grid at night, as their demand is often much less anyhow.
Weather Dependant
While the sun is always there if you live in a climate that is rainy and cloudy frequently, it will affect the amount of energy collected. The panels do work during rain and clouds, just not as well.
If you live somewhere where the sun doesn’t actually reach your home, like in the shade of big trees, mountains, or other structures, it can be difficult to gather enough energy to make it worth your while.
Take Up Space
Depending on how much energy you want to produce, you may not have the roof space to do so. Panels take up a lot of room and can be very heavy. You may need to have your roof reinforced before installing the panels.
Pros and Cons of Solar Power
While you always need to consider both sides, the pros outweigh the cons. Solar panels are much more accessible now and are continually coming down in cost.
The more people want them and the more companies that supply them means a drop in the cost. If you are considering solar energy, call us at Live Smart Construction for a free consultation today.