Solar Power Information

Solar Powered Products

This is a widely debated and heated issue between environmentalists and skeptics but the viewpoint appears to be mostly circumstantial as solar power does not make sense for all locations in the world. The pros seem to outweigh the cons, but my philosophy is that it is far better to talk about the bad news first, and save the best for last. The bad news is…

The initial cost of installing solar panels or other sources of solar energy is high, and that is not easy for most people to get around. No matter how much some people would like to get involved in the movement to independent energy, it is cost prohibitive. Critics say that no matter what rebates you receive, solar power does not make economical sense. The estimated amount of years that it would take to see savings based on what you spend on your system is between 11-22, although varying sources beg to differ.

Another issue is space. To achieve the highest level of efficiency, which is the entire point of going solar in the first place, you need the proper amount of roof space to support the panels your house may require. Not only how much space is available, but the location of your home is also relevant to whether or not you can maintain solar energy. Some houses simply do not receive enough sunlight to produce substantial energy. This could mean that either your house is not positioned favorably in relation to a tree or other house, or your neck of the woods may at certain times of the year, receive no sunlight. Places such as Alaska, or Norway would be prime examples.

As you can see, the cons of implementing solar power in your home are primarily cost and location related, but if those two items do not pose issues for you, the good news is…

If solar power is looked at through a long-term lens, you will eventually make back what you originally spent, and possibly start making money on your investment, rather than just saving money. In states where net-metering is available, your surplus energy can be sold to your utility company. Government rebates also speed up the process of financial return. Let’s not forget that solar energy increases the value of your home too. Solar power is not subject supply and demand fluctuations in the way that gas is. Silicon, the primary component of solar panels, is also being more widely produced, therefore, less and less expensive with each passing year.

Solar power is independent, or semi-independent. This is great because you can supply your home with electricity during a power outage. Solar power can also be used in remote locations, places where conventional power can’t be reached. On a larger scale, solar power also reduces our need to rely on foreign sources for power.

And last, but certainly not least, it’s good for our planet! Solar energy is clean, renewable and sustainable. It does not fill our atmosphere with carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, mercury or any other pollutants. It is a free and unlimited source of power, unlike expensive and damaging fossil fuels.