Weigh the Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Power Before Investing
Those thinking of cutting their ties with the electric company and relying on the sun to provide electric power should consider the advantages and disadvantages of solar power before having the wires removed. The immediate thought is not receiving a monthly electric bill and playing a role in saving the environment from the pollution of fossil fuel power generators, yet there are other considerations that may make the move to solar power less attractive.
The first thing to consider is the initial cost of installation to provide enough power to the home and make the return in lower utility bills worth the investment. This cost can be approximated at $10,000 for every 1,000 kilowatts of power generated. While no monthly bill from the electric company and may be one of the advantages and disadvantages of solar power since if your solar system fails you will be left in the dark. The main components of a solar power generation system consists of solar panels, storage batteries, a power inverter and a charge controller to prevent damage to the batteries as well as to keep them fully charged.
As prices for photovoltaic cells fall, the initial installation will reduce the initial cost, yet at its current rate, the average annual cost, considering the five-year life expectancy of many of the parts, will be about $2,000 per year before a return on the investment is realized. However, other advantages and disadvantages of solar power can help make the decision easier.
Environmental Concerns Push People To The Sun
For those conscious of the need for conservation of fossil fuels and to reduce their negative effects on the atmosphere, the advantages and disadvantages of solar power are outweighed by the environmental benefits. The average person uses under 900 kilowatts a month, requiring about 170 pounds of coal. This results in about 300 pounds of carbon dioxide being pushed into the atmosphere every year. It also requires about 100 gallons of water every month.
With the appropriate size solar panel array and sufficient battery backup, solar power can be used 24-hours a day, seven days a week. However, extended periods of bad weather resulting in the sun not penetrating the clouds, the batteries may run low leaving the home without power. However, the advantages and disadvantages of solar power are also overcome in remote areas with little or no access to the power grid. Without the availability of solar power, having electricity would not be possible in these areas.
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