Thinking About Solar Energy? Here Are the Major Pros and Cons
If you’re looking to install solar panels on your home or business, you’ll find a wide range of information. This can make it difficult to figure out whether or not solar panels are the right fit for you.
While it has been widely criticized for being expensive or inefficient, solar energy has now proved to be extremely beneficial – not only for the environment but also for the private economy. More solar energy systems are being installed on homes and businesses than ever before.
While there are plenty of reasons to switch to solar energy, it is not a decision that should be rushed. Take the time to evaluate the pros and cons of solar energy to determine if making the switch is right for you.
Whether you are building a new home or considering adding solar panels to your home, there are some important solar energy pros and cons to weigh.
To help you out, we’ve put together a conclusive list that weighs the pros and cons of solar energy.
What are the pros of solar energy?
1. Solar Energy Saves You Money
After overcoming the initial installment costs for solar panels, they quickly work toward paying for themselves: Solar panels can last 25 years or longer. On average, homeowners and business owners who install solar panels will see their return on investment fully between five and 10 years due to electricity bill savings. From there on, those savings can go straight to the bank.
Once your system is paid off, your solar panels will continue to generate free power for your home or business for the lifetime of the system.
2. Solar is Cheaper Than Ever Before
While electricity prices continue to get more expensive here in Kenya, the cost of solar has continued to fall. Solar is now cheaper than ever. In fact, the cost has fallen with over 70% in the past decade. These low prices make solar more accessible to more homeowners than ever before.
3. Solar Energy is Environmental Friendly
Another big selling point for solar is that it is a renewable energy source. This means that as you use the resource, it doesn’t deplete the source.
So, by using the sunlight that hits the earth and turning it into electricity, we don’t deplete the sun’s energy.
4. Solar Power Allows for Energy Independence
If you’re thinking of going completely off the grid, solar power is a natural option. Because you don’t have to rely on traditional energy sources, it is possible to power your home or business entirely with your own solar energy.
In such cases, you will only need batteries to store power generated during the day to use at night or during extreme cloudy days.
5. Solar Panels Are Low-Maintenance
Solar energy systems generally don’t require a lot of maintenance and they have a lifespan of 20 years or longer. You only need to keep them relatively clean, so cleaning them a couple of times per year will do the job. In fact, the amount of rainfall we receive in most parts of the country is enough to do the cleaning. Also make sure the panels are free from any shading.
After covering the initial cost of the solar system, you can expect very little spending on maintenance and repair work.
6. Technology Development
Technology in the solar power industry is constantly advancing and improvements will intensify in the future. Innovations in this area can potentially increase the effectiveness of solar panels and double, or even triple, the electrical input of the solar power systems.
What Are the Cons of Solar Energy?
1. High Upfront Cost
The initial costs of purchasing a solar system is fairly high. This includes paying for solar panels, inverter, batteries, wiring, and the installation. Nevertheless, solar technologies are constantly developing, so it is safe to assume that prices will go down in the future.
2. Weather-dependent
The most important element for solar panels is the sun. If you live in an area prone to cloudy days for an extended period, this will negatively impact how the system runs. Although this is not a problem here in Kenya as most regions have optimum amount of sunlight needed to generate power.
Although solar energy can still be collected during cloudy and rainy days, the efficiency of the solar system drops. That’s why having batteries for storage is very important.
3. Inability to Move With You
Practically speaking, once a solar energy system is installed on a home or business, it’s nearly impossible to transport. It is possible to transfer solar panels if you move into a new home, but it’s rarely advised. The system would have to be dismantled from your roof and retrofitted to your new property, which would likely cause extensive damage to both your panels and your roof.
4. Solar Doesn’t Work at Night
Some people interested in solar might wonder if, by going solar, they can live completely off the grid. This can only happen when you incorporate with batteries for energy storage which increases the upfront cost.
Homes or business must rely on utility grids or battery storage for power at night and in other situations when sunlight is limited. Having batteries for power storage is always a good bet.
5. Finding Quality Local Solar Installers Can Be Difficult
Getting qualified and vetted installers can be a challenge especially when confronted by several companies. As a result, for many people, shopping for solar can be a stressful and confusing scenario. Luckily, here at Voltmatic Energy Solutions, we are dedicated in helping our clients identify and evaluate whether solar power is ideal for their needs. We walk with you each step of the way to ensure the best value for your money.
Should you install solar panels?
The pros of solar energy greatly outweigh the cons. The cost to install solar is now cheaper than ever, and the price of electricity is only going to continue to rise as we’re experiencing currently in the country. The sooner you make the switch to solar, the sooner you can start saving.
If you’re considering investing into solar energy, you can schedule a FREE consultation with us and we shall help you determine your specific system needs.
Phone number: 0759493610
Email: info@voltmaticenergysolutions.co.ke