It is no secret that solar energy has many benefits for the environment. Reduced reliance on fossil fuels will reduce strain on resources and help ensure that the planet remains a healthy environment. When you bring solar power into your home, there are many things to consider. It is important to take the time to learn about the advantages and drawbacks that solar energy can bring to homeowners and businesses. We’ve outlined the benefits and drawbacks of switching to solar energy.
Solar Energy’s Advantages
#1. Solar energy can reduce your monthly power bill
The greatest benefit that solar energy can bring to you is a lower monthly utility bill. Your energy bills will fall significantly as your solar system meets your energy requirements. You may even be eligible for credits to offset your energy bill.
#2. Solar energy provides lucrative tax incentives
Tax incentives are one of the most popular benefits associated with solar energy. Homeowners eligible for a federal tax credit can receive 26% of their initial costs back if they choose to install solar panels. New York State offers a $5,000 tax credit. These incentives give homeowners a quicker return on their investment in solar power and create jobs and allow the industry to expand rapidly. There is a catch: the incentive programs have an expiration date, which means that if you wait to install in the future, you could miss out on major reimbursements and incentives.
#3. You can combine solar energy with solar battery storage
When combined, solar panels and battery storage make a great combination. When used together, battery storage can store and then discharge electricity for later use. This is great for those who don’t want dependence on the grid or fossil fuel generators. Home battery backups can charge during the day, and homeowners can use it at night or store it to power their house when the grid goes down. To ensure that your home is always powered up, we recommend installing more than one battery. Two Tesla Powerwall units are included in our standard package.
#4. Solar energy is environmentally-friendly
The sun is a renewable, clean energy source. Many Americans are looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly, and solar power checks a lot of boxes. The sun is the power source for solar panels so that you can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in your home. Solar energy isn’t generally associated with pollution, so that you can reduce your carbon footprint.
Solar Energy’s Disadvantages
Despite all the positive aspects of solar energy, some issues still must be addressed.
#5. Initial costs can be very high
Although renewable energy sources have seen a significant decrease in costs over the past decade, a solar system can still be expensive. The initial cost of a solar panel system is quite high as you will be pre-paying for your next 40 years’ electricity. The savings are huge, but not everyone can afford a solar panel system. Financing packages are available that allow homeowners to save money as they go.
A solar system is made up of solar panels and inverters. Wiring, wiring, and installation are all required to be paid upfront. Installing solar reduces your utility bills and will pay for itself over time. A high-quality company will maximize your investment and help you make the best financial decisions regarding solar. Many banks offer excellent financing options. They also offer free online quotes.
#6. The permitting process can be time consuming
This is something that many people don’t realize. Before installing solar panels, you must have a permit from your local government. Going solar is not like getting a new roof on your house or replacing your windows. Project installation can take weeks or even months due to restrictions by the government. The length of the permitting process depends on how strict your local government approves fast permits. This can be a lengthy and tedious process. We take over that responsibility by managing all aspects of the permitting process with your local government. This step can take time, so be aware when you are looking at your solar project. To ensure that the process goes smoothly, it is important to understand the timeline given by your installer.
#7. Weather Dependence
Solar panels are dependent on sunlight to generate energy. This means that solar panels may not produce as much electricity in rainy or cloudy weather. Solar panels do not require 100% sunlight to function. However, depending on how dense the clouds are, the solar panels may still be able to pick up enough energy from the sun to provide ample power for your home. Many users also generate excess energy credits during the summer months, used in winter and evening hours. Your credit bank can work for you even if the sun doesn’t shine!
#8. Each roof is not suitable for solar.
Your energy requirements, roof orientation, roof material and shading all play into determining whether your home is suitable to be solar-powered. A large roof with a south-facing orientation and no roof obstructions, such as skylights or vent pipes, ideal solar. However, a small roof facing west, surrounded by tall trees, may not produce the same amount.
Although we would love to see the entire world powered by the sun, we can’t be there if your house isn’t suitable for solar panels. Community solar is readily available in our area. To virtually offset your electric bill, you can subscribe to a local project and get an average of 10% off your monthly bill.
Get a Free Solar Estimate Today!
Solar energy systems are growing in popularity for a good reason. They have both environmental and financial advantages that are worth it. Are you curious about whether your home or business is a suitable candidate for a photovoltaic power system? Get in touch to get started!