NEWS
Going Green: The Pros and Cons of Solar Power for Your Home
Solar Power
Did you know that solar energy is estimated to make up around 20% of energy production in the United States by 2050? Right now, solar energy accounts for 3% of energy production.
Solar energy is a cleaner alternative to coal and fossil fuel, and it is growing in popularity. To switch to solar energy, you will need to install solar panels, inverters, racking equipment, and batteries.
Do you want to learn more about the pros and cons of going green by installing solar panels? If so, keep reading to learn more about switching to green energy.
Pros of Installing Solar Panels
Before you install solar panels, you need to decide if the pros make switching to solar energy worth it. Here are some of the benefits of installing solar panels on your property:
Reduce Your Electric Bill
One of the biggest benefits of installing solar panels is reducing your electric bill. Installing solar panels on your roof will increase energy production, reducing the amount of energy you buy from your electric company.
The more solar panels and sunlight your house gets, the smaller your electric bill will become. If you produce more energy than you need, you can sell the excess energy back to your electric company.
If you are ready to reduce your electric bill, start by contacting your local solar provider. They can examine your house, provide an estimate, and install the panels.
Lessen Your Impact on the Environment
If you are ready to go green, installing solar panels is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. Solar is a renewable energy source, unlike fossil fuels and coal.
When fossil fuels are burned to create power, they add pollutants to the air. Switching to solar energy will reduce greenhouse gas production, slowing down the effects of climate change.
Reliable Power Source
Does your power go out anytime it storms? If so, you should consider installing solar panels for a more reliable power source. Not having power can cost you hundreds of dollars in ruined groceries and can be dangerous during the winter.
With solar panels, you never have to worry about losing power. Even if your solar panels don’t power the entire house, they may be able to produce enough to keep your refrigerator and HVAC system running.
Increase House Value
Another benefit of installing solar panels is that they can increase your house value. On average, solar panels can boost your house value by 4.1%. While it may not cover the cost of installing the panels, it helps.
Switching to a solar energy source can also make your house easier to sell. Investing in a green home is more important to buyers now than ever before, and homebuyers are willing to pay more for a smart home.
Rebates and Incentives
If you worry about the price of solar panels, keep in mind that you may qualify for rebates and tax incentives. When you install solar panels, you may be eligible for up to a 30% tax credit.
The tax credit can include the cost of the panels, installation, permits, and other supplies. You also can check to see if your city, state, or solar provider offers a rebate on the cost of installation.
Cons of Installing Solar Panels
While there are many benefits to installing solar panels, there are also cons. For some people, the cons may outweigh the benefits, and it may not be worth it to switch to solar energy.
Here are some of the cons of installing solar panels:
Installation Cost
One of the biggest downsides of installing solar panels is the cost. While the price of solar energy has dropped significantly over the past 20 years, it is still a large investment.
On average, it costs between $15,000 and $25,000 to install solar panels. It’s also possible to lease solar panels if you don’t want the large, upfront cost.
Some people may not have that much money to invest, but solar panels can save you money in the long run. Solar energy can reduce your electric bill, save money on your taxes, and increase your house value.
Dependent on the Weather
Unlike some traditional types of energy, solar energy relies on the weather. If you live in an area that doesn’t get a ton of sunlight, your solar panels may not produce much energy.
You may want to reconsider installing solar panels if you live somewhere that gets a ton of rain, you have long winters, or you have lots of trees around your house.
Fewer Savings When Energy Costs are Low
In some states, the cost of electricity is much higher than in others. If you live in a state with a high cost of electricity, you will save more money by installing solar panels.
If you live somewhere with cheap electricity, the savings from solar panels may not be worth the cost. Before you install solar panels, consider how much the panels cost each month and how much you spend on electricity.
Tricky Installation
While installing solar panels may seem simple, it’s not. You will need to hire a solar panel installer, apply for a permit, and make sure your roof can handle the weight.
To choose the right solar panel installer, work with local companies, get multiple quotes, ask about warranties, and read online reviews before making a decision.
Is Going Green With Solar Panels Right for You?
Installing solar panels on your roof is a great option if you want to reduce your electric bill, lessen your impact on the environment, and increase house value. While there are many pros to going green with solar energy, there are also cons that you should consider.
Did you enjoy reading this article on the pros and cons of renewable energy? If so, check out the home improvement category to learn more about upgrading your house.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
