Learn the Advantages and Disadvantages of Going Solar?

Solar adds to the value of your home.

Millions of Americans are interested in solar panels but haven’t taken the time to learn how to install them. This consumer reality and the evident benefits of having solar panels installed on a home addition to recent research that shows property values grow when solar is installed. As a result, the second “pro” of solar can help balance out one of the negatives that we addressed earlier — even if you plan on moving soon, you’ll recoup your solar panel investment and then some when you sell your home. Check out this post on solar and property values to discover more about the enhanced resale value of solar homes and how much solar contributes to the market worth of your property.

 

Solar energy reduces carbon emissions.

Solar energy is a clean, sustainable form of energy that can help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and our environmental effect. Unlike traditional fossil fuels such as coal and oil, solar energy does not directly result in the discharge of pollutants (such as carbon dioxide) into the environment and water supply. Even when compared to nuclear energy, solar comes out on top as a more environmentally beneficial option.

Going solar allows you to get control over escalating energy bills.

Many homeowners are concerned about their electricity bills because, in most cases, there is nothing you can do to influence your utility’s electricity rate. While the cost of solar has dropped by more than 70% in the last decade, the cost of energy has climbed by around 5%, and this trend of growing electricity costs is projected to continue. When it comes to energy generation, going solar puts you in control. Utilities are quickly adapting to the expanding adoption of renewable energy. In addition, the United States government is rapidly boosting its targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implying that there has never been a better moment to be energy self-sufficient.

Solar can offer you money while you recoup your investment.

Because of a slew of fantastic solar incentives in the United States, solar panels can make you money in addition to delivering bill savings that cover the cost of the system. Solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) and net metering are two important solar benefits that allow you to earn bill credits (or extra cash) as your system generates electricity. In these cases, you get compensated for the electricity generated by your solar panels. If you live in a state that offers either of these incentives, you can expect both immediate and long-term profits on your solar investment.

What is the process through which solar energy works?

How does solar operate to provide you with all of these wonderful benefits? It is fundamentally a chemical and physical reaction between sunlight and solar panels. The science underlying this “photovoltaic effect” is complex. Still, we’ve simplified it for you–read our article on how solar panels operate to learn the step-by-step method by which panels generate clean electricity for your home.

 

What are the drawbacks of adopting solar? 

The top 5 disadvantages of solar energy aren’t ideal — here are five things to consider when considering solar:

Solar is not suitable for all roof types.

It is not ideal if you are preparing to relocate.

Little electricity prices equate to low savings.

The initial investment can be rather substantial.

Finding the appropriate installation can be a difficult task.

Solar panels are not suitable for every type of roof.

Rooftop solar panels are installed by attaching a mounting device (sometimes called “racking”) to your roof. Unfortunately, certain roofing materials used in older or historical homes, such as slate or cedar tiles, might be difficult for solar installers to deal with, putting a stumbling hurdle in the path of solar electricity. Furthermore, many homes and apartment buildings include skylights or other rooftop modifications, such as roof decks, making solar installation difficult or expensive. However, this should not be a barrier to the widespread adoption of solar power in the United States in the long run. Suppose your property does not qualify for a rooftop solar installation. In that case, you still have options: ground-mounted solar panels or purchasing a share in a community solar garden can help you overcome this solar energy disadvantage.

If you’re preparing to relocate, solar isn’t the best option.

Solar is a terrific financial investment, but it can take some time to reach the break-even threshold that industry sales reps frequently tout. In the United States, the average payback period for solar panels is about seven and a half years. Installing solar panels on a young homeowner’s roof who plans to move in the next few years may seem like a waste of money. However, as you’ll see later in this article, solar can actually boost the value of your home and so increase your return when you sell it. So, as long as you plan to buy your system with cash or a loan, you may simply avoid this disadvantage of solar power.