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The Pros and Cons of Solar Energy
We all understand that solar energy is good for
the environment, and it can significantly reduce
our energy bills.
However there are
other benefits that solar energy has to offer as
well as a few disadvantages. The following is a
brief list of the most common advantages and
disadvantages to help you determine whether or
not solar energy is right for you.
Solar Energy Advantages:
1. It’s free: Solar energy is free, but
only after your initial investment, which can be
extremely expensive. It takes the average
homeowner approximately 10 to 12 years to regain
their initial investment through the savings
they receive on their energy bills.
In addition, there are several incentives
available through the federal government. Check
with your local energy administration bureau or
check the National Database of State Incentives
for Renewable Energy (DSIRE). DSIRE offers
information on financial and regulatory
incentives to promote renewable energy
technologies. The website for DSIRE is: http://www.dsireusa.org/
2. Solar Energy is environmentally friendly:
This is very true. Solar energy is a clean,
renewable resource that will not pollute the
air, or water supply, as it does not produce
waste such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide,
sulfur dioxide, or mercury like other
traditional forms of energy do. Which also means
that solar energy will not contribute to global
warming, acid rain, or smog.
3. Nearly zero-energy and zero-energy homes:
This means that solar energy can be used to
offset utility-supplied energy consumption or
can be a homes sole energy source. When solar
energy is used to offset utility-supplied
energy, the solar system usually is connected to
a meter that allows for the excess amount of
solar energy to be shared with the utility
company. This method not only reduces your
energy bills, but also will supply your home
with electricity during times when the amount of
solar energy is low. These systems are said to
be “on a grid.”
4. By using Solar Energy we reduces our
dependence on foreign oil. Therefore, our
energy supply will not be drastically affected
by natural disasters or international events.
5. Little to no maintenance: Solar power
systems are virtually maintenance free and have
been proven to last for decades. In addition,
these systems are quite, do not have any moving
parts, and do not produce any odors.
Solar Energy Disadvantages:
1. The primary disadvantage of solar energy
is its initial cost. However, as more and
more people are switching to solar energy it is
becoming more price-competitive.
2. Its efficiency: The efficiency of the
system greatly depends on how it was installed
as well as on the location of the sun. If a
system is install incorrectly so that it does
not receive the maximum amount of exposure of
the sun, then the system will not be very
efficient. In addition, battery backup systems
may be need if a home is not on a grid as no
solar energy can be produced at night.
As you can see, the advantages of solar energy
out number the disadvantages. However, because
of its expensive cost, sadly many people will
not be able to afford to install it.
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