Solar Energy Advantages

Here’s a comprehensive compilation of solar energy advantages as well as its disadvantages.

Solar energy in its purest form comes from the radiant light and heat of the sun. The energy of sunlight along with the use of technologies is primarily used by humans as a source of electricity, power to appliances, devices and some machines in both homes and industries.

Like other alternative energies, solar energy has also its share of disadvantages. This is the reason why not one has settled on a single source yet. However, by studying the following broad list, you will discover that the disadvantages are far less than the advantages.

Saves you money

• There is absolutely no need for fuel with solar energy.
• It has nothing to do with the supply and demand of fuel, thus, it is unaffected by the spiraling price of gasoline.
• An attractive scheme called "net-metering" is available when your system happens to produce more energy than you consume, your utility company may likely buy it out, accumulating credits to your account.
• Allows you to save money if you happen to have electricity charges.
• Immediate savings is possible, which could go on for years.
• Utilizing solar energy could result to the reduction of health costs.
• Following the recovery of your initial investment. There is practically nothing to pay for anymore since the sun’s energy is absolutely free.
• Based on your household electricity requirement, the recovery period could be really short.
• Financial incentives are provided by the government to lessen your cost. (Check out www.dsireusa.org to know about the incentives available in the area.)

Environment Friendly

• Produced only where necessary.
• Since solar energy does not utilize fuel, it doesn’t cause any problem that requires recovery, transit and storage of harmful radioactive waste.
• Unlike coal, gas and oil, solar energy is pure, renewable and sustainable which help in the preservation and protection of the environment.
• This means that solar energy does nothing to global warming, acid rain and other atmospheric pollutants.
• Unlike other traditional forms of generating electricity, solar energy does not emit nitrogen oxide, carbon dioxide, mercury or sulphur dioxide into the air, which prevent air pollution.
• Largely contributes to the reduction of environment damage caused by green house gas emissions.

Independent / Semi Independent

• The creation of Solar Energy systems promotes local economic growth as it creates more jobs and business opportunities.
• Since a Solar Energy system can independently operate without necessarily connecting to a power or gas grid at all, it can therefore be installed in distant locations (similar to holiday log cabins) which is far less expensive than installing utility-supplied electricity.
• You can use solar energy to balance the consumption of utility- supplied energy. This could mean that you can greatly cut down your electricity bills, in addition to having an uninterrupted power supply in cases when disruption happens.
• Solar Energy utilization promotes a sustainable future that is independent from foreign and/or centralized sources which are usually affected by natural disasters and international events.

Low or No Maintenance at all

• Solar energy systems have no moving parts, thus, they operate with no disturbing sounds. You don’t have to add any fuel, which means that emission of foul odor will be prevented.
• After it has been installed, there would be no other cost to worry.
• Solar Energy systems require low to practically no maintenance at all which can even last for years.
• It’s easy to add more solar panels when needed.

Solar Energy Disadvantages

• The performance of the system basically depends on the location of the sun. However, this issue can be solved by installing some components.
• As energy shortages have become more prevalent, the cost of solar energy is also rising compared to the non-renewable utility-supplied electricity.
• The high cost of semi-conducting materials used in the initial installation is often the main disadvantage.
• The presence of clouds and air pollutants also affect the generation of solar energy.
• A large area for installation is required in the installation of solar panels in order to have a steady supply of solar energy.
• No solar energy is generated during night time, but a battery backup system or net metering can solve this problem.
• The slower speed of solar- powered cars may not be as appealing to the fast-paced everyday life nowadays.
• Visit www.dsireusa.org for instructions on how net metering can help you save money and electricity.

Even though there are disadvantages in utilizing the Solar Energy, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.