Just What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Power

There are a variety of advantages and disadvantages of solar power. The phrase, “it can save you money,” doesn’t mean much if you’re looking at a product and have little knowledge about the overall costs and savings, or you’re unable to compare it to other solutions. There are advantages and disadvantages of solar power, some more important to some people than they are to others. It all depends upon your situation and location. First, let’s take a look at five advantages to Solar Power, and then we will cover five disadvantages from a positive perspective.

1. The first advantage of solar power is that it consists of free, clean, and renewable energy. When using conventional energy, you really get no return on your investment. Solar power is renewable and will give you a return on your investment.
2. Second, solar power systems are low maintenance. Solar panels, for example, do not require much upkeep.
3. Third, it is environmentally friendly, as no pollution is created when using solar energy. Furthermore, there is no damage to the earth since we won’t use its non-renewable resources (gas, oil, fossil fuels, etc.).
4. Fourth, solar power systems have longevity, lasting about 20-30 years. Fifth, there are many solar power options that can be used that involve a wide range of prices.

If you are unable or don’t want to make significant financial changes to how you receive energy, like solar panels, there are small changes you can make to help cut costs. Solar is extremely modular allowing you to grow into it. By installing solar powered garden lights, driveway lights, and Christmas lights, you will not only cut out small costs here and there, you won’t have to worry about stringing those electric cords! If you want to spend a couple more bucks invest in a solar panel which will save you about 70-80% off of your monthly power bill.

Although there are many benefits to solar power, there are some disadvantages.

1. First, although solar power is usually backed up by batteries, solar energy is only produced when the sun is shining. This may play a larger factor in certain parts of the world which do not receive a lot of sunlight throughout the year. Keep in mind that these batteries were designed to hold enough electricity to power a home for a week, sometimes more, with no sunlight. So, on those rainy and gloomy weeks where there is very little sunlight, you will not have to worry about the possibility of sitting in the dark! 
2. Second, the initial set up and installation can be expensive, however the longer-term cost benefits outweigh the initial cost. 
3. Third, solar panels, need to be placed in an area with direct sunlight, which may be difficult if the home or building is surrounded by many trees.
4. Fourth, some solar power systems require a large amount of space, which can be difficult for those who live in a tight spots like inner city areas.

There are many advantages and disadvantages of solar power such as using clean renewable energy instead of conventional non-renewable energy, not having a lot of upkeep, being environmentally friendly, having longevity, and the variety of options that you can choose from to cut costs.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are some disadvantages to using solar power, such as the sunny days required to produce your energy, the solar powered system must be in direct sunlight, there are initial installation costs that can get pricey, and some solar power systems require a large amount of space.

When determining what is best for your home or building, it is essential to review both the advantages and disadvantages of solar power. Only after you know the facts can you make a decision as to whether or not it’s for you.