What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Power?

Solar electric power is a renewable source of electricity that is available in any part of the world. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of solar power will help you determine whether to switch to solar or continue purchasing electricity from the local electric company.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of solar power does not require you to have complete understanding of the entire solar electric system. You do not need to be able to calculate the voltage loss for a 24 volt system or calculating the correct size of an inverter. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of solar power can provide you with a clearer perception on how a system works to keep utility bills low, preserve fossil fuels and reduce pollution.

What are the financial considerations for a solar power system?

Purchasing a solar power system is an investment and needs to be treated as such. The initial investment can be rather large depending on the over all power production of the solar power system. However, many states and the federal government offer rebates, tax credits and other incentives to reduce the overall cost of a solar powered system. Over time solar powered system will save you money in the long run because energy production from the sun is practically without cost.

How is solar power affected by fossil fuel prices?

Because solar power’s fuel is sun light you will not be affected by fluctuating oil and natural gas prices. With a solar electric production system your cost per kilowatt is fixed to the installation cost. Once your solar power system has generated enough electricity to recoup the initial investment cost it is then producing free electricity. As oil and natural gas prices climb so to does the cost of electricity from the utility company, which means that the utility company will pay you even more for the excess electricity produced by your solar power system.

Many people weigh the advantages and disadvantages of solar power before opting to buy a solar power system. However, some home owners instantly find the eco-friendly benefits of solar power to be enough to convince them to purchase a solar powered system. Because solar energy is clean, sustainable and renewable, you are helping to preserve the environment by preventing air pollution from nitrogen oxide, carbon dioxide, mercury or sulphur dioxide – the common by products of burning oil, coal and natural gas.

What are the Negative Aspects of Solar Power?

While some sources focus on the advantages that a solar power system can provide you, it is important to understand both advantages and disadvantages of solar power to ensure that you are ready to face financial responsibilities, legalities and other issues associated with mounting a solar panel on your rooftop.

· The largest disadvantage of solar power is the initial cost of installing the system. Since the materials used in building a solar power system are quality and high-cost components, one solar power system can be equivalent to paying a few years of electricity bills. While financial options are available, not everyone can afford the initial investment compared to purchasing electricity from their utility company.

· You are not guaranteed to receive constant power. After the sun sets, your energy source is completely gone until the sun rises again the following day. This problem can be reduced by installing a battery bank and storing some of the electricity produced during the day.

· Insufficient amount of “southerly” facing surfaces to install the solar panels on. You must have a sufficient square foot area that is clear of obstructions, such as trees and other buildings, that receives a lot of sun exposure during the day.

· Number of sunny days will affect the amount of solar power produced.

· Other factors that can reduce the output from a solar power system are: air pollution, clouds, and fog.

Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of solar power, you can now make an informed decision on whether your personal circumstances, location and needs can be met by a solar power system.

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