Understanding The Pros and Cons of Solar Energy
Although most people are aware of solar power and what it has to offer, many do not actually understand the various pros and cons of solar energy and therefore are not able to make an intelligent and informed decision on whether to implement this form of energy into their own home or not.
It is very important to understand both the pros and cons of solar energy before switching over, so that you can be as educated and informed as possible and feel more comfortable making the change.
Cost Effective
One of the most major advantages of solar energy is that it is so cost effective. Although you will be paying a rather large initial cost in order to get the equipment and have it installed, over time you will not only get your money paid out back but much more as well. This recovery or payback period for this investment can actually be very short, depending on how much electricity you use on average for your home.
Solar energy is also not affected by the supply and demand of fuel, so on other occasions when your gas bill would increase in price due to inflation in fuel prices with solar energy you would not be affected by this.
Environmentally Friendly
Solar energy is also the best source of energy in terms of the environment, as it is clean and renewable, unlike other sources of energy. It also does not pollute the air by releasing any harmful gases or chemicals. In this way it actually actively contributes to the decrease of harmful greenhouse gas emissions, and so you will not only be saving yourself money by using solar energy but as well will be doing what you can to protect the environment.
Start up Costs
When we speak of the pros and cons of solar energy, although the advantages are obviously overwhelming, there are also a few small disadvantages that come from using solar energy. One of the most major involves the start up costs that you will incur initially to buy and install the solar energy system.
As well, the cost of solar energy is considered as being rather high when compared to non-renewable utility-supplied electricity. The efficiency of the solar energy system in your home relies largely on the location of the sun, and so many systems will not work if they are fully or even partially in shade, which can obviously often cause problems. You must compare the pros and cons of solar energy as it relates to the place where you live to make the most informed decision for your family.