Solar energy is around us every day, which is why harnessing it to power up our households and industries is the best decision we can make if we want to preserve our resources. We can save money and protect the environment at the same time.
However, the technology needed to harness solar energy is another thing to consider because it introduces a few setbacks that may outweigh the benefits of switching to solar power. Here are the pros and cons of using solar power.
Solar panels at the ENGIE Sun Valley Solar project in Hill County, Texas, on March 1, 2023.
Pros of Using Solar Power
- Solar Power is Renewable
According to Forbes, using the heat of the sun instead of burning fossil fuel to extract energy should lessen the impact on the environment. Using non-renewable energy as an alternative also helps save whatever source of energy that we are using, avoiding the risk of depleting it due to over-dependence.
- Reduction of Electric Bill
Since solar power can be harnessed directly from the sun, households will no longer require much electricity from the grid. People can enjoy lower electric bills, or no electric bills at all if their solar panel setup is enough to sustain the electricity demands of their household.
- Solar Power Minimizes Carbon Footprint
Depending on fuel fuels for electricity has a substantial carbon footprint as burning the fuel releases too much carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. However, using solar panel does not require processes that emits substances that are harmful to the environment. However, there is still carbon footprint when solar panels are manufactured.
- Solar Power Improves Home Value
A house equipped with solar panels has higher value since whoever owns it can potentially save more money as it draws energy to power up the applicances from the sun. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a dollar saved because of using solar panel increases the home value by $20.
- Low Maintenance Cost
After installing the solar panel, the technology does not require too much maintenance. The owner must only keep the panel clean to enjoy optimal performance.
Related Article: On-Grid, Off-Grid, or Hybrid - Which Type of Solar Panel Is for You?
Cons of Using Solar Power
- Expensive Installation and Material Cost
As per EnergyBot, the cost of an average 5-kW solar panel setup in the United States is around $15,000. One would also need a solar panel contractor to install the setup since it is a difficult task and not everyone can install solar panels in their home by themselves. Although, getting a contractor for the installation can be costly.
- Long Payback Period
Since buying and installing solar panels require large sum of money, it will take several years to recover the investment.
- Highly Dependent on Sunlight
Solar panel cannot extract energy without sunlight. Even though the sun is always present, there has to a good amount of sunlight penetrating the solar panel. Therefore, one cannot enjoy using solar panel when the weather is poor.
- Solar Panel Takes Up Space
Solar panel may require bigger space in the house in order to receive enough amount of sunlight. Therefore, the house owner must free up space for installation.
- Environmental Impacts of Manufacturing Solar Panels
The process of harnessing solar energy in itself is eco-friendly, but the manufacturing of the solar panels is another story. Mining the minerals needed to build the solar panel result in the emission of greenhouse gas, as well as the manufacturing of the solar panel units.
Read Also: China, India, Japan, Philippines and Indonesia To Ramp Up Solar Capacity by 2030
