LET THE SUNSHINE IN
Ever given thought to going solar? As Mother Earth is requiring more sustainable energy solutions, solar tops the list. We’ve got the 411 on solar energy for your home. We look at both the advantages and disadvantages, so read on to become well informed on solar.
As of February 2024, over 4.2 million homes in the United States have rooftop solar panels. So what exactly is solar energy? Simply put, solar energy is electrical or thermal energy harvested from sunlight. Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells. Within those cells are semiconductor materials (such as silicon). The cells absorb particles from the sun called photons. Once absorbed by the panel, the photons release electrons. The flow of the electrons within the cell creates an electrical current that can be directed to our electrical circuits. Solar panels can be placed anywhere with an abundance of sunlight typically either a rooftop or field. The more sunlight that the panels are exposed to, the more electricity produced.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of solar energy.
Advantages:
Renewable Energy Source
Frankly, it’s better for the environment. It reduces the use of fossil fuels which are in declining supply. Additionally, when fossil fuels are burned, they release harmful byproducts into the atmosphere.
Lower Electric Bills
Solar energy can oftentimes power homes completely or at the very least provide a strong supplement to purchasing energy from a grid. That leads to considerable savings.
Energy Independence
Create some independence from the companies providing energy from a grid. A home operating on solar potentially has the capacity to be “off the grid”. Often these homes have a solar battery system to provide power during non-daylight hours.
Long Term Savings
There is a fairly significant upfront cost, however, over time that is offset by the reduction in electric bills. Typically, homeowners break even well before the system needs replacement or significant maintenance.
Disadvantages:
Significant Out of Pocket Cost
Solar panels can be pricey up front. However, there are ways to make payments over time. Panels can be leased with lease terms and monthly payments or they can be purchased outright. If purchasing, they can also be financed (with a loan). Just be sure you understand the full details of both options especially when it comes to selling the home down the line. We can help here!
Sunlight Dependency
The system is dependent on sunlight. This can be problematic for consumers with less sun exposure or poor weather. The solar battery systems can help with this by storing excess energy when produced.
Installation
Installing solar panels should really be left to the professionals. Really not a good idea for DIY
Difficult to Relocate
The system cannot be easily moved and relocated so there is some permanence to the decision to install solar panels. Better to consider them a long term investment in property on which they are installed.
New Technology - Solar Shingles
Solar shingles work nearly the same as solar panels. However, they are dual purpose. They also work as the roofing material for your home. The solar cells are shaped into shingles or tiles. They also have a cool, futuristic look as well.
Pros
- Perfect solution for those cases in which a roof replacement is required.
- Elegant and sleek design provides a futuristic look to your roof.
- No obstructions from solar panels will be visible on the roof.
- No external wiring that could be exposed to damage and cause potential hazards.
- No weak spots on the roof from roof penetrations as with conventional solar systems.
Cons
- Higher upfront costs and lower return of investment (ROI) than conventional rooftop solar panels (unless the roof is to be replaced).
- Solar shingles generally have less energy efficiency than standard solar modules.
- Few companies perform solar shingle installation.
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/solar-energy-pros-and-cons/at exactly is solar energy?
https://solarmagazine.com/solar-roofs/solar-shingles/
