Solar Energy Benefits
So, you want to install solar panels on your home. But, before you do so, you need to know about solar energy benefits. Fortunately, there are many!
Of the solar energy benefits, the first and foremost item to note is that solar power does not produce any waste or pollution, unlike most of the other forms of energy that we have in the world today. Carbon emissions can be a thing of the past when you use solar energy instead.
Next, I would emphasize the security that solar power gives you. In the event of a power outage, your lights may still come on. Rising electricity costs in the future? Not much of a worry when you are generating your own power. Depending on the size of system you install, you may not ever receive an electric bill again!
Solar Energy
A third item on the list of solar energy benefits is the cost! That’s right – although there is an upfront financial investment, prices have come down significantly in recent years. Add in tax incentives and rebates and you can save up to 80% off retail. Then, consider the added value to your property. For every $1 you save in annual electricity costs, its a $20 increase. So, let’s say you save $500: that translates to $10,000 in automatic equity.
Perhaps in order to best understand and appreciate solar energy benefits, we should go over a primer on solar power. There are two primary types of solar panels that can be installed on a home or business. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels absorb UV light energy as direct current which is then converted to alternating current – electricity you can use. Excess energy generated can be stored in batteries.
Solar Hot Water Panel
Thermal solar panels are used for solar hot water systems. These are typically less expensive than PV panels and can be used for general home hot water needs, or even to heat a swimming pool. Special panels heat the water, which is pumped from a solar hot water tank.
Whether you install one, or both types of solar panels, you can start saving right away on your utility bills!
For many people, perhaps the most important solar energy benefit is the fact that solar panels are virtually cost-free, once installed. They have a long life and you generally just forget that they’re on your roof. That is, until you see the savings each month in your utility bills!
Do you have solar panels? What do you think is the biggest benefit to you?
September 13th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
I am planning to install solar cells when I get some subsidies from the state which is promised for the first lucky ones.
September 15th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
Mats it is a very good thing you are doing and i wish that everyone was that enthusiastic. I as well would like to add solar panels to my house and i am hoping that with all the panels and other things i have done to save energy i can cut down to at least 50 percent savings.