Terri Ramsey Beavers The solar energy industry in America has grown 35-fold since 2008, enough to power 12 million average homes. However, just because it’s a rapidly growing industry doesn’t mean that solar panels are a good option for you.
Keep reading to learn the solar panel pros and cons to determine is renewable energy is the right choice for you.
What Are Solar Panels?
Simply put, solar panels collect clean energy through the sun and convert the light into electricity. This electricity is then used to provide power to homes, cars, and many other buildings.
Solar panels can be installed on the roofs of homes, in fields, and a company is even developing solar panels in the form of windows. Learn the pros and cons of solar panels and learn if you should buy solar today
Solar Panel Pros and Cons
Now that you understand what solar panels are it’s time to dive deep into the many pros and cons solar panels have to offer. We’ll go through plenty of options to help you determine if it’s right for you.
Pro: Unlimited Energy
The sun is never going to run out of energy. Well, at least not for another 5 billion years. This means you can get consistent energy to your home and not worry about where the energy is coming from.
Con: Initial Installation Is Expensive
Solar panel costs for installation is around $15,000 – $25,000. Thankfully the cost per panel continues to decrease as technology improves. However, that initial cost could be a big barrier to getting a system up.
Pro: Solar Energy Is Sustainable
By sustainable we mean we’re able to meet current needs without ruining the future generations’ needs. Our children and grandchildren will be able to use the power of the sun for many years.
It’s our duty to create renewable energy options available to leave a better world for future generations.
Con: Solar Energy Isn’t Always Available
Current energy sources are available 24/7, whereas the sun isn’t always available. At nighttime and cloudy days, the time and days most people use more lights inside, you would need an alternate source of energy.
Pro: Long Term Cost Savings
While the initial solar panel cost for installation is expensive, in the long term you could end up saving money. By switching to solar you can almost completely get rid of your energy company. You’re no longer bound to their prices and service.
However, if you have found a reliable and trustworthy energy provider, they can help you get the most out of your solar panels. You can read about other people’s similar experiences in Reliant Energy Reviews.
Con: Solar Energy Storage Is Expensive
The batteries you use to store solar energy during times of sunlight for use during the night time are very expensive. They also don’t have the capacity to store all that much energy, meaning you could run out when you need it most.
Thankfully, the industry is evolving and better technology is being created, however, at this point, the batteries remain expensive.
Go Solar Today
If you determine solar energy is the right choice for you, then go solar today! If you enjoyed these solar panel pros and cons, then be sure to check out the rest of our content. We write a variety of articles we’re sure you’ll love.