Advantages & Disadvantages of harnessing solar energy at home

The kind of energy the sun provides in an hour, if harnessed properly, is good enough to power the whole world for a year. However, man has not been able to come up with adequate solutions to derive such benefits. The introduction of solar panel systems is rather the first step towards harnessing such powerful, freely available energy.

Although, considered to be inadequate or being expensive at present, still it is quite beneficial for the economy and overall environment. Solar panel grants offered by the government combined with competitive market prices have compelled homeowners to look at this viable option.

Many families are found to make this their main energy source. With the introduction of solar storage battery systems, this advanced technology only seemed to have evolved further. It offers people with clean energy.

Advantages derived from solar energy installation

1- Reduced electricity bills:

If you are using solar energy along with conventional energy, then you are likely to witness a significant drop in utility bills. The amount saved will be based on the solar system size you have installed and power generated.

Besides saving money on utility bills. You also have the option to receive payments or make adjustments from the utility company. This can be done by exporting surplus energy generated to the grid.

2- Renewable energy source:

This is an important aspect that cannot be ignored. The present world demands clean energy since pollution is on the increase, resulting in increased natural calamities. It is possible to harness the sun’s energy from anywhere in the world and almost every day.

Solar energy can be availed for free and hence, you will never run out of power on any day, unlike other forms of energy. The sun is expected to be there for a minimum 5 billion years and hence solar energy can be easily accessed until the human race exists.

3- Low maintenance expenses:

Generally, not much maintenance is required for solar energy systems. Only periodical cleaning will be done at least twice a year. But if there is accumulated debris and other elements, then you need to hire a professional cleaning service to do the job. You can expect the reliable and reputed manufacturers to offer a warranty of 20 to 25 years on their solar panels.

Moreover, with no moving parts in them, there is no worry of experiencing wear & tear. The only part that might require replacement after 5 to 10 years is the inverter. The reason is because it works continuously to generate heat and electricity by converting solar energy. Also cables will require periodical maintenance to ensure efficient functioning and optimization of the solar panel system.

Therefore, you just need to cover the initial purchase and installation costs after which repair work and maintenance require negligible investments.

4- Diverse applications:

Presently, solar energy is used for diverse purposes including solar thermal (heat) and photovoltaics (electricity). You may use solar energy to produce electricity in those areas not having an energy grid. It can help distil water in those places receiving limited clean water as well as to power satellites. It is possible to integrate solar energy within the materials that are used in buildings. Transparent windows using solar energy are one such example.

5- Technology development:

Constant advancements are being noticed in the field of solar energy. Innovations made in nanotechnology and quantum physics are expected to increase potential effectiveness of the panels. Hence, the solar power system’s electrical input can be expected to double or triple in the near future.

Disadvantages from installing solar energy system

1- Weather dependent:

Even during rainy and cloudy days, it is possible to collect solar energy. However, the solar system’s efficiency drops in such weather conditions. The reason is because panels are entirely dependent on bright sunlight to collect solar energy.

Also they do not work at night. If you are seeking a water heating solution during winter or at night time, then you may consider thermodynamic panels.

2- Installation Cost:

Installing the solar system does involve a huge initial cost. It includes the panels, batteries, inverter, installation and wiring. Manufacturers are trying to come up with more affordable options. Moreover, governments have been promoting solar energy usage and offering incentives and subsidies to both manufacturers and users.

3- Occupies plenty of space:

The amount of electricity to produce determines the number of solar panels to be installed. Solar panels do occupy lots of space. Small roofs may not have sufficient space to accommodate the desired panel numbers. If you have a small roof, then you may consider installing them in your sunlit yard.

4- Expensive solar energy storage:

You may use solar energy right away or store it for future use in large batteries. But these batteries do cost a lot and require proper maintenance.

If properly understood, there are more benefits to be derived with the installation and usage of solar panel systems than disadvantages. Solar panels in Norwich are getting popular day by day.